Five Hoosiers missed Indiana’s Tuesday night road contest against Northwestern because of suspension. Though it was not revealed why the players were suspended, head coach Mike Woodson said it was because of a violation of team rules.

Xavier Johnson, Parker Stewart, Tamar Bates, Michael Durr and Khristian Lander all missed Tuesday night’s game because of suspension, seriously limiting the team’s depth. The suspensions were costly, as Indiana dropped a 59-51 decision to Northwestern to fall to 16-7 overall and 7-6 in conference play.

After the game, Woodson was asked about his decision to suspend the five individuals.

“They broke rules and they were punished for it,” Woodson said. “We’re gonna be a team and you set rules that guys gotta obey as a team and that’s what you gotta do. You gotta do all the necessary things to help your team win on and off the floor. It just doesn’t start on the floor, you gotta do all the necessary things off the floor as well. So, that’s where we are.

“When you (dis)obey the rules, things gotta happen. Those guys — I wasn’t gonna let them play. So, we gotta go back home and regroup and get ready for Michigan State.”

Woodson said he has not decided yet if the five players will serve a one-game suspension or if it will be longer.

The Hoosiers are entering a pivotal part of the season as they attempt to make a push for the NCAA Tournament. Indiana will play No. 17 Michigan State, No. 14 Wisconsin and No. 16 Ohio State in its next three games.

Johnson is the top assist man for the Hoosiers this season, averaging 4.5 per game this season. He’s also proven to be an effective scorer, averaging 10.6 points per game, the third-best average on the team.

Stewart is averaging 6.9 points and 2 rebounds per game. Bates and Lander have been role players in the backcourt for the Hoosiers this season. Durr has come in and provided valuable minutes in the post, particularly on the defensive side.

Indiana was also without Rob Phinisee on Tuesday night, who is still battling a foot injury.