The 2026 Offseason!

While Jack could potentially slide to the two guard, he is undersized for that role and ideally get someone who is 3 inches taller, as Justus is just 6'3", we may not need 2 on the lower end of the size range. Although his play may be more consistent than Justus’s at times, it wouldn’t automatically make him the starting shooting guard. For those reasons, while I would certainly welcome him to the team, I’m not convinced this would be the best basketball fit for him heading into next season.

That said, joining a competitive team close to home has its appeal, and I’m sure his family would enjoy being able to attend his games regularly. Ultimately, I wouldn’t be surprised if he follows Alexander instead. We won't be spending a ton of money on a guard transfer, it is for this reason I think we find our guy in the DII, low major, or NAIA. I could be totally off, but this is where I see this going. 

Funny story I wanted to share with the group about an encounter @valpodad had at Arch Madness that involved Jack.

We were sitting in the Valpo section watching (I believe) the UNI first-round game after we beat ISUb. Two Belmont fans came and sat in the row directly in front of us. ValpoDad notices they’re in Belmont gear while he’s decked out in Valpo gear, so he leans forward and casually says, “Jack Smiley is transferring to Valpo next year—his dad told me.”

What ValpoDad didn’t realize at the time was that one of the two guys he said this to was actually Jack’s dad, and the other was presumably a relative. They both just kind of smiled and didn’t say anything.

Out of the thousands of people in the arena, what are the chances that some friendly fan banter just happens to land on the actual father of the player being discussed?

Moral of the story: if Jack transfers to Valpo, we all know who to thank—ValpoDad. 🤣 

Roger explained that Valpo put its best possible number on the table—one that he openly acknowledged was much less than what other programs were offering. From there, he talked through many of the same things we’ve discussed here: how each player fits into the team, what their development looks like with another year at Valpo, and the opportunities for playing time, growth, and long-term trajectory compared to schools that were mainly offering a bigger check.

As we can see, that message clearly resonated. Everything we’ve talked about regarding past transfers leveling up, maximizing opportunity, improving performance, and shaping their careers seems to have been part of those conversations. These are mature young men, and they’re listening and making thoughtful decisions. I couldn’t be more thrilled with how it played out.

This podcast was recorded before Sader announced his return, but Roger did include him in some of those discussions as well. Shon was also briefly mentioned as being larger than life and a fan favorite—which naturally raises the question: is that a hint that Shon might be next to announce?

If Shon comes back, we would be returning our top eligible player at every position next year. I’ve linked the podcast below for anyone who wants to give it a listen. How lucky are we to have Roger Powell leading this program?

(125) Roger Powell JR building on Valpo success. He's retaining his best players! - YouTube

As a native Hoosier, it’s impossible not to appreciate Brody Whitaker’s journey. He came from the NAIA/D2 ranks with a chip on his shoulder, helped stabilize a rebuilding roster, and became a key piece Valpo will miss next year. While Brody is out of eligibility, the idea of “Brody 2.0” doesn’t have to be.

That’s where Tyler Parrish comes in. A local product from Chesterton and Brody’s former D2 teammate, Parrish broke out last season as a redshirt freshman and enters next year with three years of eligibility remaining. He brings a similar size and role profile, but with stronger shooting efficiency. He started the season slow and with less minutes but by game 10 of the season really turned it on. He scored double figures in 18 of the last 20 games averaging 17 ppg over this period, this included 2-30 point games.  

Valpo struggled to connect on shots last year, finishing last in the Valley in 2P% and just average nationally from three. Parrish helps address that need: 40% from three, 47.5% FG, and efficient scoring without needing high usage.

If he’s willing to step up to D1 without chasing an NIL bag, a local SG who spaces the floor, fits next to Rakim, and complements JT and Justus feels like a move worth exploring. Valpo may have better options this year, but it has paid off in the past and would not be surprised to see this guy on a D1 floor somewhere next season. You just never know who may be willing to come that isn't going to demand over 50-100k NIL, this guy might be a target.