Backcourt darkhorse?
Welcome back to Crimson Quarry’s 2024-25 Indiana women’s basketball player preview series. Today, we’re taking a look at sophomore guard Lenée Beaumont.
The Story So Far
Beaumont appeared in 30 of Indiana’s 32 games as a freshman last season. The 6-1 Lisle, Ill., native averaged 9.6 minutes and 3.0 points per contest as a fringe rotation guard.
After being the Illinois Gatorade Player of the Year in 2023, it took Beaumont time to adjust to an off-ball role when playing with the starters. She proved she could produce while leading the offense, though, and often ran point for an all-underclass lineup during nonconference play.
Driving and good midrange shooting saw Beaumont score nine points in each of her first three college games. Her skillset also got her to the free-throw line where she was effective and made 70% of her attempts.
Offense
Beaumont has strong handles and plays with creativity around the rim. She’s great at getting to her spots and is one of Indiana’s best midrange shooters. Her ball-dominant game is a change of pace from that of the other guards on the roster who prefer to shoot threes.
The two styles complement each other and Beaumont’s slashing brings real depth to the offense. She was not relied on heavily last year but made skillful plays when on the floor.
Defense
Beaumont has good length. A full year in Indiana’s system will help bolster both her defensive knowledge and athleticism. She is on track as a defender.
Outlook
Beaumont will be Indiana’s point guard at some point before she graduates. With the return of guards Lexus Bargesser (Jr.) and Chloe Moore-McNeil (Gr.) plus newcomers Shay Ciezki (Jr.) and Valentýna Kadlecová (Fr.), however, the Hoosier backcourt is actually more crowded than it was last year.
Earning playing time will be tough but Beaumont’s had a great offseason. Teammates raved about her practice play at Media Day last month and believe she’s in for a big year.