Missouri Valley Basketball: Predicting stars for each team in 2017-18

ST. LOUIS, MO - MARCH 5: Members of the Wichita State Shockers celebrate after winning the Missouri Valley Conference Basketball Tournament Championship against the Illinois State Redbirds at the Scottrade Center on March 5, 2017 in St. Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images) /

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EUGENE, OR – NOVEMBER 17: Valparaiso’s Walker /

Valparaiso Crusaders – Tevonn Walker

While losing the Shockers is a huge blow, getting the Horizon standard bearers is not a bad replacement at all. The Horizon League is very similar to the Missouri Valley in both geography and style of play. The adjustment for Valpo won’t be as difficult as it will be in replacing an all-time great in Alec Peters.

One good thing for this team is that they’re joining a conference who won’t be putting up triple-digit scoring efforts too often. Still, it’ll take everyone to replace what was lost last season. Peters averaged 23 and 10 and that would be difficult to replace for a high-major, let alone Valparaiso.

Making things even worse, the second-leading scorer Shane Hammick and his 15 per game is gone as well. The Crusaders will have someone to lead the way in senior Tevonn Walker, though, a 6’2″ guard who put up 12 a game.

Even with all the spotlight on Peters, Walker had his moments as well, including a 21 and 10 effort against Detroit Mercy. His calling card is on defense, where he was on the All-Horizon Defensive Team. If his offense can be as good as his defense, then Valpo can look forward to being towards the top of this conference as well.

Next: Mountain West stars of 2017-18

With seven of the ten players listed being seniors, this season will be the last chance to make a name for themselves. It’s a wide-open competition for both the teams, as well as the individuals. Let’s see who takes advantage of this great chance.