@vu72 I would assume buy games go towards standard operations and not the excellence fund(ie. The plane at PC Airport and gameday essentials). I believe someone posted as such but I do not remember exactly where
Because of last year's exodus, I'm bracing myself for disappointment, while holding out hope for some pleasant surprises.
I know the $$$ is a huge factor, perhaps overwhelmingly decisive. But as I took another look at Cooper Schwieger's and All Wright's stats, I saw two guys getting decent playing time and putting up solid, role-player numbers for schools that probably aren't going anywhere in terms of post-season play. Given how close the talent levels are in the MVC, it's arguable that Valpo would've been going to the NCAA had these guys returned to join the current group.
I see Pettigrew giving up a similar opportunity if (or is it really when?) he leaves Valpo.
@vu72 I would assume buy games go towards standard operations and not the excellence fund(ie. The plane at PC Airport and gameday essentials). I believe someone posted as such but I do not remember exactly where
We do treat our players in a first class way, as in chartered jet service versus long bus rides or public air flights. I remember being at DFW for a flight and saw Missouri State players there. When I asked where they were headed they said Chicago for the Valpo/UIC games. As it turned out, we were on the same flight. It was painful to see guys 6’8” crammed into middle seats.
Pettigrew was indeed a big part of the programs success, but the reasons go much deeper than just JT. Roger brought in maturity and leadership which JT has pointed to in several interviews. Principal among the leadership was Brody Whitaker. Getting him was genius. A scorer when needed, a mature leader as well as a calming factor.
I don't disagree but the roster also needs the talent of a guy such as JT. It took him a while to get going but he was a consistent force once he did. The rest of the roster were all pretty hit and miss from game to game.
JT was becoming pretty dependable down the stretch and I would concur the rest of the line up was pretty hit and miss, streaky shooting. Whitaker was good down the stretch except for the game at UIC, but yes like Alec Peters, you need that alpha male to depend on. Very likely #7 is gone and that announcement will come mid next week. Don't see him staying for less. Only scenario, he looks at what recent VU transfers have done after leaving, loves his current teammates and decides to stay one more year for a discount and improve his stock for his jr year.
The best scenario, keep Servelus, Shon, Chaney, Tornada, Justice, Hopi....Walker is added to the rotation. Thats a good core and fill in with a Whitaker type transfer and our incoming freshman. The money, based on VU's history will prolly be spread out as much as possible. I have no idea what our incoming freshman would get or someone like Shon and Chaney returning. Not sure what the market is. The buy games, yes are used for travel, airplane, but I think I read where the Kentucky game was not a buy game because it was part of some tourney with Eastern Ill and Nichols State, but yes the Marquette game was a buy game.. The calm before the transfer storm next week and the week after.
I believe there is also an issue that incoming freshman Justin Curry will be out with an ACL tear
I believe there is also an issue that incoming freshman Justin Curry will be out with an ACL tear
Correct. It happened February 1 so at least it was some time ago for healing purposes.
I believe there is also an issue that incoming freshman Justin Curry will be out with an ACL tear
Correct. It happened February 1 so at least it was some time ago for healing purposes.
I believe it’s normally a 8-12 month recovery? I wouldn’t be surprised if he redshirts or starts out as a redshirt at the very least. He will miss a lot of key development time that happens with the team in the early part of the season and even earlier in the summer so he will be behind even once he gets fully healthy. Such a shame, I love his game! I hope he surprises us but there is a good chance he decides to redshirt.
Breaking News: JT Pettigrew has announced his return for next year! -per valpo basketball’s facebook page!
Excellent news: J.T.'s early commitment to return sets a very good example that likely will encourage return of some current players and inspire incoming freshmen! Let's hope it also helps Coach Powell with further recruitment.
Wow! Did not see that one coming! Fabulous news!
McNair back too! Wow!
When you invest in a program and a community supports you. Good things happen
Great news. Not getting ahead of myself, I wouldn’t be shocked if most returns. JT seems like a really mature kid, good home life. I’m sure the staff sold JT on a little more money, you’ll be the go to guy on offense, improve your skill sets, you’ll get more lucrative offers after your sophomore year. Now that the star is staying the rest will run it back. Will be a preseason buzz for sure in late October.
J.T. played a monster game against Bradley. And now he’s coming back. I didn’t expect this. What great news! I hope it turns out unbelievably well for him.
And McNair is returning after taking his game up an important notch this season. He could be a throwback VU player who keeps playing bigger and bigger roles each season.
Something’s happening here….. 
