Allen Close To Returning

More good news for Indiana in the wake of its 77-69 victory over Western Michigan -- forward Ben Allen is close to returning after a bout with mononucleosis.

Allen, who has missed the last three games, did some practicing on Tuesday, although he still isn't allowed to have any contact. Coach Kelvin Sampson said Allen did some shooting and working out on his own, and if he's able to practice Thursday, he might get to play in Friday night's game against IUPUI at Conseco Fieldhouse.

If Allen does play, he'll be leaner, if not meaner. Sampson said the 6-11 Australian native has lost some weight.

The Hoosiers (7-3) don't need Allen for IUPUI or for Ball State next week. They will need him for their Big Ten opener, which is Jan. 2 at No. 3 Ohio State. The sooner he gets some action, the better for the Hoosiers.