Valparaiso basketball: How will the Crusaders do in the MVC?
By Doug Winkey
Valparaiso basketball is the newest member of the Missouri Valley Conference. What should we expect from the Crusaders in year one in the Valley?
There is no doubt Wichita State bolting the MVC for the American was a huge blow to the MVC.
The Shockers were the conference’s premier team but will take that star power to the American Athletic and duel the likes of Cincy and Memphis. The Valley has recovered somewhat, unanimously voting to bring in the Valparaiso Crusaders of the Horizon League. The Crusaders will join for all sports save football starting this upcoming athletic year.
Valpo will be hard-pressed to compete right away on the hardwood. The team did go 24-9 in 2016-2017 but loses three of its top four scorers, including NBA prospect Alec Peters. Second-year coach Matt Lottich will rely on senior guards Tevonn Walker and Max Joseph to carry much of the load. They also need big steps forward from big men Jaume Sorolla and Derrik Smits. The Crusaders will get potential boosts from transfers Joe Burton (Oklahoma State) and Bakari Evelyn (Nebraska). Expect a few growing pains from this group as it finds its new go-to guys.
The biggest immediate problem is that the Valley will be fairly competitive next season. Missouri State and Loyola look like the teams to beat based on their returning rotations. Drake, UNI, and Bradley are also maybe further along the competition curve than Valpo as well. A fifth or sixth-place finish is their probable ceiling for the moment.
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This is a positive move for the Crusaders. They join the conference containing in-state neighbor Indiana State and one with more national reputation. Next year might be a small struggle for the young squad, but expect Valparaiso to be a force in the Valley for years to come.