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Does anyone know if any Valpo Basketball players made any NIL $ last year?

Apparently a good amount of players at other MVC schools were getting paid $25K per semester last season. I doubt Valpo players were.

It's going to be imperative for Valpo to build connections with the business community to be able to recruit competitive talent in the coming years.

https://twitter.com/mattnorlander/status/1639017076982714369?s=46&t=cNk7taMAYtxNl1Q0_O79Gw

https://twitter.com/tvboren/status/1639019115448012800?s=46&t=cNk7taMAYtxNl1Q0_O79Gw

Will tonight be Matt Lottich's final game coaching Valpo Basketball?

Yes or No?


Should tonight be Matt Lottich's final game coaching Valpo Basketball?

Yes or No?

https://twitter.com/spyreportoh/status/1342850409853976576?s=21

https://twitter.com/valpoalumni/status/1358839476802490368?s=21



Join us prior to the men's basketball game against Indiana State for a pregame chat with Valpo Basketball greats Erik Buggs '13, Ryan Broekhoff '13, and
Vashil Fernandez '14, '15 M.S., '16 M.S. Led by legendary Valpo play-by-play announcer and honorary alumnus Todd Ickow '18H, they'll reflect on their college careers and update Valpo fans on where they are today. They'll also answer your fan questions, which you can submit at registration or ask live!


This event is presented in celebration of the Victory for Valpo initiative, which seeks to assist the University in honoring its commitment to the student-athlete experience by generating financial support to offset the losses caused by COVID-19.

A minimum $25 gift to Victory for Valpo is required to attend this event, and those who make a qualifying gift via the registration form will receive the Zoom link to join the event. You'll also receive a commemorative, digital ticket to that evening's home game against Indiana State.

Help us sell out the ARC virtually and join in on the pregame fun with these fan favorites.

About the presenters:
One of the most decorated players in the program's storied history, Ryan Broekhoff was the 2011–12 Horizon League Player of the Year as a junior and was selected by the Associated Press as an Honorable Mention All-American that season. A two-time First Team All-Horizon League selection, Broekhoff ranks seventh in program history in points scored (1,591), tied for third in rebounds (841), third in 3-pointers made (252) and fifth in blocked shots (100). Broekhoff has played professionally since his Valpo career concluded, most notably playing in 59 NBA games for the Dallas Mavericks over two seasons (2018-19 and 2019-20).

After being a part of the memorable 2013 senior class that led Valpo to an NCAA Tournament berth during its senior season, Erik Buggs went on to play professionally overseas. He owns the program record for games played, having appeared in 138 contests during his Valpo tenure. The Memphis native was named the Most Valuable Player of the 2013 Horizon League Tournament after scoring 22 points in the championship game against Wright State. He also ranks among Valpo's all-time leaders in assists (425, fourth) and steals (157, t-sixth).

Like Broekhoff and Buggs, Vashil Fernandez has gone on to play professionally following his time on Valpo's campus. The Kingston, Jamaica, native was a fan favorite during his time at Valpo while evolving into one of the best defensive players in the nation. He was named the Lefty Driesell National Defensive Player of the Year by CollegeInsider.com as a senior after leading the nation at 3.31 blocks per game. A two-time Horizon League Defensive Player of the Year, Fernandez owns the top two single-season block totals in Valpo history including a program-record 119 rejections as a senior.

Todd Ickow is in his 30th year calling Valpo Athletics and his 29th as the Voice of Valpo Basketball. He will moderate the session prior to handling ESPN3/ESPN+ play-by-play duties for that evening's home finale against in-state foe Indiana State.


About Victory for Valpo:
The loss of significant ticket and sponsorship revenue, NCAA and Missouri Valley Conference distributions and guaranteed game money results in a revenue shortfall of over $600,000 for Valpo Athletics. In addition, the expense of maintaining the Valpo student-athlete experience in a safe environment continues, with added costs this year for testing and other COVID-19 related safeguards and protocols.

"When each one of these young men and women decided to attend Valpo and compete for the Brown and Gold, we made a commitment to them," said LaBarbera. "A commitment that they would have the most meaningful student-athlete experience possible and have the opportunity to develop athletically, grow as individuals and receive a world-class education as members of the Valpo Athletics family."

Gifts to Victory for Valpo will support Valpo Athletics and provide critical resources to all 17 of Valpo's NCAA Division-I athletic teams. Importantly, it will help protect the Valpo student-athlete experience of competing at the highest level possible while dedicated to achieving academic excellence in the classroom.

The pandemic has established a "new normal" and Valpo student-athletes, coaches and staff have adapted well. Several winter sports have returned to competition, albeit with limited spectator attendance, while spring sports are nearing the start of their respective seasons. Additionally, traditional fall sports — football, volleyball, women's soccer and cross country — have the opportunity to compete this spring as well.







Contact Information
Primary Contact

Alumni Engagement
1100 Campus Dr S
Valparaiso, IN 46383
219.464.5142
alumni@valpo.edu
Date & Location
Date: 2/27/2021
Time: 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Location: Online

Drake is Ranked in the Top 25 coming into this game. Maybe Valpo could steal a game against a Team currently on track to earn an at-large bid. Could be a 2 Bid Valley this year if Drake & Loyola keep it rolling.

Also look who is in the building! Rowdy is home!

https://twitter.com/valpo_hoops/status/1358118103662682112?s=21

The game has been cancelled. How many times has our program but shutdown the last few months? Sound like at least 3 times.

This team badly needs consistent practice time which they haven't been able to get the last few months...

If the Bradley games are still going to happen it might be a blood bath...

https://twitter.com/nwioren/status/1341101645397192705?s=21

Well someone needed to start it....

The University is planning to phase out the following majors and minors. The University seems to focusing on the careers paths.

https://twitter.com/valpotorch/status/1326965376287174661?s=21

The new interim President of Valparaiso University was named. Does anyone have a gauge for her level of commitment to Valparaiso Athletic's flagship Athletics Program?

Her level of commitment and support will be key for the future of the program. She has been on the Board of Directors since 2009. I've heard that some board members view Athletics as more a priority than others.

It's very interesting that she has a background in public finance and municipal debt. Her expertise in that area was key for the Board of Directors.

https://twitter.com/valpou/status/1300794457793720321?s=21

I thought it was about time we started this 2020-2021 season thread.

Fingers crossed we have a College Basketball Season...

https://twitter.com/_rc3_1/status/1272554341006745601?s=21

https://twitter.com/petersalec/status/1263867947963088896?s=20
https://twitter.com/petersalec/status/1263181237906288643?s=20
https://twitter.com/GTMFamilyProd/status/1263866052720590850?s=20

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HOYjsT_YADk&feature=youtu.be

https://twitter.com/valpo_hoops/status/1159828691985358848?s=21

Is this a net negative or positive for the future of Valpo Basketball?

Does the next VU President value athletics and think heavily investing in the Basketball program is worth it? Or does he/she think Athletics is a waste of $ and not make it a priority. There are huge ramifications here.

Side Note: I've already heard some conspiracy theories that some board members were trying to force him out. I have no clue of the validity to these rumors.

As of two hours ago nobody has placed a bid on Bryce or Homer yet.

https://twitter.com/GrizzTalkOU/status/1148671587337625600
https://twitter.com/GaryParrishCBS/status/1148616978640318465

https://twitter.com/ValpoU/status/1103708647639695360

https://twitter.com/ValleyHoops/status/1102043721988751360

Thought it was time to make a Arch Madness thread. The Crusaders have struggled mightily down the stretch and we face #8 Indiana State for the third time this season. It's almost difficult to lose 3 times to a mediocre team in one season but it could be a possibility on Thursday...

Nothing about this MVC season has made any "sense", so maybe we squeak by Indiana State and for the right to play Loyola less than 24 hours later.

Should this team attempt to play in a "postseason" tournament? If you would have asked me before the season started I'd say absolutely, but this team is being held together with duck tape to finish out the season.

I normally don't like the idea of paying to play in these postseason tournaments but I thought it could be a decent idea this season to help give this team some postseason experience. It might help simulate what the preparation would be like for this squad and they could use that for what we hope could be a special 19-20 season. With all the injuries this team has experienced I'm not sure it's a great idea anymore. Also factor in that the fanbase seems pretty dejected with how this season played out.

A student recently reached out to me asking to know some of the old student section cheers. They want to get some of the old cheers going in the student section again. Could we all help him out. I wanted to include everyone in this because some of you guys have been fans for much longer than me. I've heard the 90's were pretty good times and there were some cheers that even made Barry Hinson laugh on the opposing bench. Let's include the funny ones.

3. 2. 1. GO!

edit: brought the clips back

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo_K-pMZmk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iMIfgpLN4ZU
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bz978LQiDgY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-STAL0aNko

A very important final 6 games for Valpo. It all begins with Indiana State at home on Wednesday. Indiana State (4-8) is coming off an atrocious performance against Bradley, 96-67. We need to finish strong to stay out of the Thursday game at Arch Madness.

5th times the charm?

Let's break this losing streak. It will be a tough task against ISUr team that is finding it's groove. It makes all the sense in the world to assume we'll lose tomorrow but we're due for a game where the Basketball Gods bless us. Anything can happen tomorrow if we play stout defense and guys start knocking down shots. No Fazekas on Tuesday.

https://twitter.com/MichaelOsipoff/status/1092466369549996032
https://twitter.com/MichaelOsipoff/status/1092466963186630656
https://twitter.com/MichaelOsipoff/status/1092468878733725702
https://twitter.com/MichaelOsipoff/status/1092469675244564480

Nothing quite like a national media article to rile up fans.

https://twitter.com/goodmanhoops/status/1091393845101821953?s=21

Let's get moving on those renovations...

Well someone needed to start this thread so here you go.

A huge game against Loyola on Tuesday. I'd argue this will be the biggest game of the season so far. This will be a great litmus test for this squad.

Wardle & Co. are coming into the ARC 0-2 in Valley play and hungry for a W. This is the first game students will be back on campus for! Hopefully the positive vibes over the last week or so will carry into the game on Tuesday. Bradley is a much more talented team than their record suggests. They play stout defense which we will need to overcome. We can't go on any prolonged scoring droughts like we did in the ISUr game.

Bradley's star, Darrell Brown dropped 32 against Indiana State in a 65-60 loss the other day. We'll need our backcourt to contain him in this game like UNI managed to do the previous game. elijah Childs is having somewhat of disappointing year but even when he's not scoring, he still manages to have an impact on the game with his rebounding. The battle of the Bigs will be another key match up. Koch Bar averages 5.5 Rebs per game. We need our guys to crash the glass and fight for every board against this Bradley team.

I have a feeling this is going to be a gritty/physical game if the refs let the guys play. I see this one being a close game and neither team gets over 70 points.

I'm tired of watching this team play so poorly. Watching them is exhausting and aggravating. Maybe this roster and coaching staff isn't as talented as we thought they were.

I've never seen so much public grumbling about the coaching in my time as a fan. Coach Lottich might not be on the hot seat with his boss but he's starting to get on the hot seat with the fan-base.

Conference Schedule:
Jan. 2         Illinois State     
Jan. 5         at Missouri State
Jan. 8         Bradley
Jan. 12       at Southern Illinois
Jan. 15       at Loyola
Jan. 19      UNI
Jan. 23       at Indiana State
Jan. 26      Drake
Jan. 29      Missouri State
Feb. 2         at Evansville
Feb. 5         at Illinois State
Feb. 10      Loyola
Feb. 13      Indiana State
Feb. 16       at Drake
Feb. 20      Southern Illinois
Feb. 23       at UNI
Feb. 27       at Bradley
Mar. 2        Evansville

[TODD AARON GOLDEN: ISU, MVC and fans lose with ESPN paywall]

Do you plan on getting a ESPN+ subscription for the 2018-19 MBB season?

For me it's absolutely worth it to watch Valpo Basketball. $5 a month or $50 for annual subscription is worth it to me with all the extra content it comes with. I'm going to do the $50 annual subscription but I won't start the subscription till the basketball season begin.

Some games will still be on ESPN3 but some will be behind the paywall of ESPN+, particularly during the conference season. I'm wondering if this will encourage more fans to attend games live as opposed to being able to watch the games from home. If I lived closer to Valparaiso I'd probably have season tickets. Going to the games live is just a much more fun experience. I'm curious to hear everyones opinion on ESPN+.

The Indiana State beat reporter wrote article about the potential impact of ESPN+ on the Missouri Valley Conference:

https://twitter.com/tribstarsports/status/1025532200161169409

TODD AARON GOLDEN: ISU, MVC and fans lose with ESPN paywall
By Todd Aaron Golden
Tribune-Star
Aug 3, 2018

http://www.tribstar.com/sports/todd-aaron-golden-isu-mvc-and-fans-lose-with-espn/article_b4bea5d7-99d0-55c2-9e36-097f8bf3eb5d.html

[Valpo Athletics and Van Wagner Sports & Entertainment Announce Multimedia Rights Partnership]

Some interesting news.

https://twitter.com/valpoathletics/status/1021410898458697728

Valpo Athletics and Van Wagner Sports & Entertainment Announce Multimedia Rights Partnership
MONDAY, JULY 23, 2018

NEW YORK (July 23, 2018) – Van Wagner Sports and Entertainment (VWSE) and Valparaiso University Athletics today announced a long-term agreement granting VWSE Collegiate Services exclusive rights to represent Valpo Athletics for corporate sponsorships, media sales and more.

In addition to selling and managing Valpo's local broadcast and digital media assets, VWSE will negotiate and execute corporate partnerships around properties including the Crusaders' in-venue signage, gameday promotions, rights to athletic marks and in-venue hospitality packages.

"We are excited to be partnering with Van Wagner," said Mark LaBarbera, director of athletics at Valpo.  "They bring an understanding of mid-major programs, experienced staff and expertise in evolving media and communications platforms that will provide strong support as we continue our transition to the Missouri Valley Conference."

"Van Wagner is honored to launch our partnership with Valpo Athletics, a program steeped in more than 100 years of tradition," said Mike Palisi, executive vice president of VWSE. "As Director of Athletics Mark LaBarbera and his staff build upon the excitement and opportunities afforded with membership of the Missouri Valley Conference, we look forward to creating a substantial corporate partnership program that reflects Valpo's values and past and future success, and drives value back to all partners."

Valparaiso University is an independent Lutheran institution in Valparaiso, Indiana, an hour's drive from Chicago. Founded in 1859, Valpo is home to 10 men's and 11 women's NCAA Division I teams representing the Missouri Valley Conference, Summit League, Pioneer Football League and Southland Bowling League.

Since 2014, VWSE Collegiate Services has become a leader in college sports marketing and developed to represent the sponsorship or multimedia rights for multiple schools and athletic conferences, including the America East Conference, Big South Conference, Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association, Colonial Athletic Association, Western Athletic Conference, and the West Coast Conference, as well as Arizona State National Sales, Canisius College, East Tennessee State University, Florida International University, Georgia State University, Kennesaw State University, Liberty University, Longwood University, Loyola University Maryland, Loyola Marymount University, Niagara University, Pepperdine University, Samford University, University of San Francisco, Siena College, Saint Joseph's University, Santa Clara University, Stony Brook University and Towson University.

The new coaching staff has made some offers the last few days and landed their first recruit in this new era of VU WBB. Sean Eaton was hired as the DBO.

https://twitter.com/valpoathletics/status/1016756451044417536
https://twitter.com/ExampleSports3/status/1018601235597971458
https://twitter.com/MHS_Girls_/status/1018877038105591808
https://twitter.com/mayawong23/status/1018215292101627904
https://twitter.com/valpoathletics/status/1017066181562392577

[Valpo to Open Myrtle Beach Invitational Against Western Kentucky]

Venue: HTC Arena on the campus of Coastal Carolina
Location: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Date: Nov. 15,16 & 18
Teams: West Virginia, Cal State Fullerton, Western Kentucky, Monmouth, Saint Joseph's, UCF, Valparaiso, Wake Forest
Broadcast on ESPN family of Networks

Bracket:
https://twitter.com/Valpo_Hoops/status/1017118021683425280

https://twitter.com/valpoathletics/status/1017116370616676354

Valpo to Open Myrtle Beach Invitational Against Western Kentucky
WEDNESDAY, JULY 11, 2018

The Valparaiso University men's basketball team learned today it will open the inaugural Myrtle Beach Invitational against Western Kentucky at 4 p.m. CT on Thursday, Nov. 15, live on ESPNU.

Making its first appearance in an ESPN multi-team event, Valpo will face a Western Kentucky squad which is coming off of a 27-win season and advanced to the semifinals of the NIT last season. The Crusaders and Hilltoppers are on the same side of the tournament bracket as West Virginia, which has reached the Sweet 16 each of the last two seasons, and Monmouth. Saint Joseph's, Wake Forest, UCF and Cal State Fullerton comprise the opposite side of the eight-team bracket.

Semifinal and consolation bracket games will be played on Friday, Nov. 16, while all eight teams will conclude play in Myrtle Beach on Sunday, Nov. 18, culminating with the championship game at 5:30 p.m. CT. All 12 games will be broadcast on the ESPN family of networks, including nine linear broadcasts.

Travel packages for the Myrtle Beach Invitational are available now. Packages include discounted hotel rates and the opportunity to purchase all-session game tickets prior to the public on-sale. To purchase a travel package through Anthony Travel, visit https://www.anthonytravel.com/myrtle-beach/ or call 888-632-6951. All-session tickets will go on-sale to the public on August 15.

[Gift From Kempf Estate Leads Hilltop Gym Renovation Project]

https://twitter.com/valpoathletics/status/1012439710537605122

Gift From Kempf Estate Leads Hilltop Gym Renovation Project
THURSDAY, JUNE 28, 2018

One of the most historic buildings on the Valparaiso University campus, Hilltop Gym is currently in the midst of a two-year, $600,000 project as the space is renovated and improved to serve as a quality practice facility for the Valpo basketball and volleyball programs. The $350,000 lead gift for the project came from the estate of Dale F. Kempf '62, a longtime faculty member in engineering and physics, and in his honor, the court will be named Kempf Court at Hilltop Gym. The gift supports Forever Valpo: The Campaign for Our Future.

Kempf served Valparaiso University as a member of the engineering faculty from 1964 to 1969 before leaving to pursue an opportunity to work for Eastman Kodak Research Laboratories. Upon his retirement from Kodak as a senior research scientist in the early 1990s, Kempf brought his expertise back to Valpo's faculty, serving for more than 20 years as an adjunct faculty member in engineering and physics. He was granted emeritus status upon his retirement in 2014 and was a fixture at Valpo Athletics events throughout his time as a faculty member and following his retirement as well.

"After his retirement from Kodak, Valparaiso University became a large part of Dale's life," said Kraig Olejniczak '87, former dean of the College of Engineering. "He was incredibly loyal and supportive of his alma mater; he put his money where his heart was. He loved Valpo Athletics in general and basketball in particular. He enjoyed the food, drink and camaraderie of Crusader Club members at halftime of basketball games in Hilltop Gym, and he especially loved when an engineering student would be playing on the men's basketball team. He also loved to watch engineering students at football practice and at games."

Olejniczak and his wife, Beth '87 '07 MSN, serve as co-executors for Kempf's estate, which was responsible for the lead gift for the project. Joe '75 and Jeanne Gillen and Richard "Dick" '59 and Carol '60 Schroer provided additional significant gifts to make the project a reality, while Don Lewis '72 and Lew Keller '60 also supported the project.

"Hilltop Gym, or University Gym as it was originally referred to, has played an important role in the life of the University and many of our students and alumni," said Mark LaBarbera, director of athletics. "We are excited to be celebrating the history and tradition of our Athletics and basketball programs by creating a modern practice and playing space in the building. Having a Division I quality air-conditioned practice facility for our basketball and volleyball programs is an important step forward as we enter our second year of Missouri Valley Conference competition. We are also excited to honor Dale Kempf's long-time contribution to Valpo and our students by placing his name on the court. We appreciate the leadership of Kraig and Beth Olejniczak, Joe Gillen and Dick Schroer in making this project happen."

The upgrades to Hilltop Gym include the installation of air conditioning, new lighting and a permanent wall between the gym and the softball hitting area, as well as treatments to the windows on the south side of the facility. A nutrition center will be added to the area for the use of all Valpo student-athletes, while the finished project will also feature graphics highlighting the history and tradition of Hilltop Gym as a campus venue, as well as the men's and women's basketball and volleyball programs.

"As a program, we are looking forward to taking advantage of the upgrades to Hilltop Gym," said Matt Lottich, men's basketball head coach. "We aspire not only to be one of the top programs in the Missouri Valley Conference, but to be one of the nation's premier mid-major programs. We are thankful that we have donors who share our vision for the program and have helped make these upgrades a reality — to create a practice facility that can help us achieve our goals."

Kempf Court at Hilltop Gym will be officially dedicated as part of Homecoming 2018 festivities this September.

"When Beth and I, as co-executors of Dale's estate, reflected on his love of basketball, halftimes in Hilltop Gym, football games and watching engineering students practice and participate in intercollegiate athletics, it just seemed right to honor and memorialize Dale in this way," said Kraig Olejniczak. "I hope Dale gets a kick out of this project. I have a feeling he will be looking down on Valpo's College of Engineering National Champion robotics football team as they continue their winning ways on their home field — Kempf Court at Hilltop Gym."

The gift from Kempf's estate supports Forever Valpo: The Campaign for Our Future, a $250 million endowment campaign focused on raising permanent support for student scholarships, faculty development and programs that prepare students for lives of leadership and service. Forever Valpo was officially launched on Sept. 23, 2016, and has raised more than $180 million.

http://www.valpoathletics.com/athletics/news/2017-18/18292/gift-from-kempf-estate-leads-hilltop-gym-renovation-project/

It's a shame because Mid-Major Conferences NEED to work together to get their Top Teams great games to build a resume for March. It sounds like it was the MWC that is severing the relationship.

https://twitter.com/NickSchultz_7/status/1012374982184271878

[New pointguard ready for Nässjö Basket]

https://twitter.com/ValpoBasketball/status/1009879058769997825
https://twitter.com/kfumnassjo/status/1009769088598540288

http://www.nassjobasket.se/nyheter/?ID=219530&NID=467060&ver=17

Google Translated:
New pointguard ready for Nässjö Basket
2018-06-21 13:38

Max Joseph has signed a contract with Nässjö Basket in the season 2018/2019. Max has played for Valparaiso Crusaders during the past season and is another player coach Juste watched at the Tryout in the United States. Max will have dual citizenship (USA and France).
Jordi Juste ,  Head Coach :
With Max we are bringing character, determination, unselfishness and maturity despite his age and his first experience abroad after his college basketball. I was really impressed When we both
sat down and Talked about expectations, basketball and life.
He is a strong point guard who cares about the team, who enjoys to fit his teammates but also with a great ability to score in different ways, mid range shots, finishing strong to the basket and also a good ball screen player reading and looking for good looks. His physicality, quickness and hands make him a great defender.
Welcome to Nässjö Basket Max, we are very excited to have you

Max Joseph :
I am excited to be able to experience a new culture and play basketball in front of a new crowd. I'm also really excited for this upcoming season because I have a feeling that we are going to give the crowd something to cheer for and to be proud to be fans of Nässjö basketball. I hate to lose and I know well work to be great this season and achieve the impossible!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FeQa8p_IVrI

I think there is no doubt Ryan is NBA caliber but it will come down to finding the right situation and fit. Fingers crossed it all works out for Ryan.

https://twitter.com/Sportando/status/1006549664781557760
https://twitter.com/hoopshype/status/1006522145420300288
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/1006557793590145025

[CBS SPORTS AND MVC TO EXTEND MULTI-YEAR DEAL TO AIR MEN'S BASKETBALL GAMES]

https://twitter.com/MVCsports/status/1001916157161607169

CBS SPORTS AND MVC TO EXTEND MULTI-YEAR DEAL TO AIR MEN'S BASKETBALL GAMES

CBS Sports and the Missouri Valley Conference have agreed to a multi-year extension to televise Missouri Valley Conference college men's basketball games on CBS and CBS Sports Network. The deal, which continues through 2023-24, is through a sublicense agreement with ESPN.

As part of the agreement, CBS will again broadcast the State Farm MVC Men's Basketball Championship game, which it has aired since 2006. CBS Sports Network will televise eight regular season games, as well as the Arch Madness Conference Tournament semifinals, as it has since 2016.

"The 2017-18 basketball season was an extraordinary one for the Missouri Valley Conference, and this extension is a continuation of the respect shown by CBS Sports for our league," said MVC Commissioner Doug Elgin.  "This agreement means that CBS Sports will televise the title game of Arch Madness through the 2024 event – a span which dates back to the first championship contest telecast in 2006.  Our staff and schools are also thrilled to continue the cooperative process necessary to produce a CBS Sports Network schedule of regular-season men's basketball games and our tournament semifinals – recognition worthy of our student-athletes and coaches."

The perennially strong Missouri Valley Conference had its second NCAA Final Four appearance since 2013 as Loyola reached San Antonio with wins over Miami (Fla.), Tennessee, Nevada and Kansas State.  The MVC has had a minimum of one NCAA tourney win in each of the past seven years (2012-present) for a cumulative 18-11 (.621) record – and that winning percentage is fourth-best among all conferences.  Loyola's first-round win against Miami gave the Valley a perfect 9-0 record in first-round games since Wichita State, then an MVC school, lost a first-round game against VCU in 2012.

The Missouri Valley Conference, the nation's second-oldest NCAA Division I conference, continues to be a leader in college athletics and is one of the nation's most progressive conferences, celebrating its 111th season in 2017-18.  League members have worked together to focus on common goals and objectives, placing a high value on league harmony, while continuing to invest in athletic programs to compete at the highest level.  MVC all-sport members include Bradley, Drake, Evansville, Illinois State, Indiana State, Loyola Chicago, Missouri State, Northern Iowa, Southern Illinois and Valparaiso.

CBS Sports Network, the 24-hour home of CBS Sports, is widely available through all major cable, satellite and telco distributors as well as via OTT streaming service providers YouTube TV, fuboTV, PlayStation Vue, DirecTV and Hulu. Additionally, a live CBS Sports Network stream is available through CBSSports.com and the CBS Sports App by authenticating with select providers. For more information, including a full programming schedule, go to www.cbssportsnetwork.com.

CBS Sports, a year-round leader in television sports, broadcasts a portfolio of events on the CBS Television Network, including two NFL football packages: the NFL's American Football Conference and "Thursday Night Football" games; THE NFL TODAY; college basketball, including the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship; golf, including the Masters® and PGA Championship; college football, including the SEC ON CBS and CBS SPORTS SPECTACULAR, including Tough Mudder and PBR.  In addition, the division includes CBS Sports Network, a 24-hour national cable network; produces INSIDE THE NFL for SHOWTIME; and partners with CBSSports.com in creating a recognized leader among sports Internet destinations.

Media Contacts
Harrison Raboy, 212-975-6655, Harrison.raboy@cbs.com
Jack Watkins, Missouri Valley Conference, 314-444-4327, watkins@mvc.org
Mike Kern, Missouri Valley Conference, 314-444-4326, kern@mvc.org

http://mvc-sports.com/news/2018/5/29/mens-basketball-cbs-sports-and-mvc-to-extend-multi-year-deal.aspx

https://twitter.com/CVanEekeren/status/992450446240428032
https://twitter.com/SVFootballCoach/status/992476804299489286
https://twitter.com/CoachHillerich/status/992388491622453248

Turning the page to the 2018-19 season.

Two freshman transfers in one offseason.

https://twitter.com/VerbalCommits/status/984153068039061504

[MVC TO DISTRIBUTE 80-EVENT PACKAGE ON ESPN+]

https://twitter.com/MVCsports/status/983435159755161602

MVC TO DISTRIBUTE 80-EVENT PACKAGE ON ESPN+

ST. LOUIS -- The Missouri Valley Conference announced today that selected regular-season digital productions plus post-season championship coverage in May will be distributed on ESPN+ -- the first-ever multi-sport, direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service from The Walt Disney Company Direct-to-Consumer and International group in partnership with ESPN.

Fans can subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 per month (or $49.99 per year) and cancel at any time.

Launching on Thursday, April 12, ESPN+ will be an integrated part of a completely redesigned ESPN App.  The new ESPN App will be the premier all-in-one digital sports platform for fans and is a showcase of the company's culture of innovation.

The Valley, which is in the fourth year of a 10-year national rights-holding agreement with ESPN, will start its programming schedule on ESPN+ on April 13, when Evansville plays host to Bradley in a 6 p.m. Central baseball game at Braun Stadium in Evansville, Indiana.

Another 79 MVC events -- all originally slated for distribution on ESPN3 -- will be featured on ESPN+.

Regular-season softball (32) and baseball (22) plus post-season championships for those sports as well as outdoor track and field comprise the 2017-18 league offerings on ESPN+.

"Reaching current as well as future audiences is the top priority for our linear and digital video endeavors, and ESPN continues to position its place as a leader in the industry," said MVC Commissioner Doug Elgin, who is the longest-tenured commissioner (30 years) in the 111-year history of the league.

"Utilizing mobile devices to stay as up-to-date as possible on every one of our athletic programs is nothing new for our fans, and the redesigned ESPN App will give sports fans an unmatched, one-stop digital sports platform."

The new, redesigned and re-imagined app will include three core offerings to fans -- 1) News, Scores, Highlights & Audio, 2) TV Everywhere streaming and 3) ESPN+.

News, Scores, Highlights & Audio will feature the same services that millions of fans turn to the ESPN App for today -- through a new, dynamic and more personalized user interface.

TV Everywhere streaming will continue to provide authenticated access to ESPN's linear networks and ESPN3 for pay TV subscribers.

ESPN+ will offer fans more sports, more leagues and more games -- as well as original shows, films and an unmatched on-demand sports library.

ESPN+ will not include access to stream ESPN's existing linear networks and ESPN3.

For the remainder of the Spring 2018 term, other Conference-produced live content will continue to be available on The Valley on ESPN3 -- the league's co-branded digital network with ESPN.

In addition to the 80 MVC events that will be available on ESPN+, an additional 33 softball and 23 baseball productions will also be shown on ESPN3.

"The Missouri Valley Conference's inclusion in an exciting venture like ESPN+ would not be possible without the dedication and support shown by our production units on league campuses," said MVC Associate Commissioner Jack R. Watkins, who oversees The Valley's linear and digital video operations.

"The Valley on ESPN3 was created in the spring of 2015, and since that time through the end of this academic year, the Conference will have produced nearly 1,800 exclusive live events -- inclusive of 14 league sports -- all distributed nationwide by ESPN."

The 2018 MVC Softball Tournament from Ron Buel Field at Des Moines, Iowa, on Thursday-Saturday, May 10-12, will be the first of three league championships to be distributed on ESPN+.

The 2018 MVC Outdoor Track and Field Championship will be shown on ESPN+ from Gibson Track and Field Complex in Terre Haute, Indiana, on Friday-Sunday, May 11-13.

The league will conclude its 2017-18 post-season tournament schedule on Wednesday-Saturday, May 23-26, as the 2018 MVC Baseball Championship will be shown on ESPN+ from Horner Ballpark in Dallas, Texas.

The site of a 2015 NCAA Division I Baseball Regional, Horner Ballpark will play host to its first-ever MVC Tournament and mark the first time in league history that an affiliate Valley member -- Dallas Baptist University -- has played host to the league's post-season baseball championship.

This event also denotes the seventh consecutive year that games from the tournament have been shown on an ESPN digital platform -- ESPN3 or ESPN+ -- beginning with the 2012 event from Hammons Field in Springfield, Missouri.

The 2017-18 college basketball season is officially over so I thought it might be time to create a new thread for the 2018-19 season.

I'm expecting a good amount of improvement next season. We were young and inexperienced last season.

Roster breakdown: (barring anymore transfers)
Seniors: 0 (we may bring in a grad-transfer or 2)
Juniors: 7 (Evelyn, Bradford, Golder, Fazekas, Kiser, Smits, Sorolla)
Sophomores: 2 (McMillan, Linssen)
Freshman: 2 (Sackey, Freeman)

2-available scholarships as of right now

We need a lot of guys to take the next step in their development this offseason and really work on their games.

https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/979078487721086976

http://unipanthers.com/news/2018/3/27/mens-basketball-koch-selected-to-play-in-3x3u-event-at-final-four.aspx

https://twitter.com/patmhickey/status/979089460343263233

https://twitter.com/valpoathletics/status/977178620836786176

http://www.valpoathletics.com/football/news/2017-18/18106/valpo-reveals-2018-football-schedule/

https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/976585753995202560
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/976585756658593793

[GUEST COMMENTARY: Setting aside self-interests will transform NWI's economy]

https://twitter.com/ValpoNews/status/975864524216635392

GUEST COMMENTARY: Setting aside self-interests will transform NWI's economy
By: Mark Heckler
Mar 18, 2018

http://www.nwitimes.com/opinion/columnists/guest-commentary/guest-commentary-setting-aside-self-interests-will-transform-nwi-s/article_2f11a4f8-711f-57a5-870d-a722d1ea6d31.html

Missouri State let go of Paul Lusk after 7 seasons and are currently searching for his replacement. It sounds like Evansville might be letting go of long time head and Evansville alum Marty Simmons. It should be a interesting offseason.

March 13, 1998

I thought the 20 year anniversary deserved it's own thread. I wasn't on campus around back then but I remember watching that game on TV when I was a little kid. Probably the most memorable NCAA Tournament shot I've ever witnessed. It's crazy to think that was 20 years ago.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZuZANaChWYc

https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/972584799989878786
https://twitter.com/NWIOren/status/972585401977327616

The 2017-18 season is officially over and Valpo Basketball has begun it's offseason. With Mid-Major Conference tournaments coming to the end, we're starting to see some transfer announcements across the country. Unfortunately transfers have become far more common in D1 basketball in recent years.

How many (if any) transfers will Valpo have this offseason? If so, who do you think transfers?

  Grade the 2017-18 season for Valpo Basketball