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Valparaiso Basketball: 2021-22 season preview and outlook for Beacons

By Harry Schroeder

WASHINGTON, DC - DECEMBER 08: Head coach Matt Lottich of the Valparaiso Crusaders looks on during a college basketball game against the George Washington Colonials at the Smith Center on December 8, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - DECEMBER 08: Head coach Matt Lottich of the Valparaiso Crusaders looks on during a college basketball game against the George Washington Colonials at the Smith Center on December 8, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images) /
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Valparaiso Basketball Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports
Valparaiso Basketball Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports /

Size and Experience in projected Valparaiso Basketball starting lineup

Ben Krikke – Forward

This Canadian native is a tirless worker. Lottich says Krikke never leaves the gym. Krikke was also part of the league’s all-improved team. The 6’9 junior averaged 12.3 points and 4.2 rebounds. He often played in the post last year but will be more of a wing this season.

The lefty will have to improve his outside shooting to be a threat from the wing, but his relentless movement on the offensive end makes him difficult to defend. With a pure point guard (Anderson) and true center (Kithier or Hedstrom) in the lineup Krikke has a chance to shine.

Sheldon Edwards – Guard

Edwards is an electric athlete who can be a true game changer. His on-court persona elevates his teammates. The 6’4 sophomore averaged 8.1 points last season who exploded for 20 against 25th ranked Drake and had 18 in a double overtime win over Bradley. One of his dunks against Drake landed him on Sports Center’s Top Ten.

Like Krikke, his outside game needs improvement, but his abilities in traffic and on the break are unique.

Trevor Anderson – Point Guard

After one season at Green Bay, Anderson played three seasons at Wisconsin. The 6’3 Wisconsin native averaged 3.1 points during 14 minutes per Badger game last season. During his three seasons at Wisconsin, he participated in over 60 contests.

Anderson is the truest of point guards during the Matt Lottich era at Valpo.

Kevion Taylor – Wing

Taylor is another transfer. The 6’5 wing played four seasons at D2 Winona State. Last season he averaged over 20 points per game and was a two-time all-conference player. He scored 1,632 D2 points and is a proven scorer.

Taylor is outstanding from deep and from the free throw line. The Milwaukee native made 249 career tripes and his career free throw percentage is well north of .800.

Thomas Kithier – Post

Kithier appeared in 86 Michigan State games and started 19 times for Tom Izzo. While the 6’8 post player enjoyed limited minutes, he was a contributor to a Final Four team, a Big Ten championship and carries that Spartan toughness along with him to Valpo.

Edwards says Kithier has helped him understand some of the nuances of college basketball. At 6’8 and 230 pounds he and Hedstrom provide legitimate size up front. He averaged 2.4 points and 2.5 rebounds for MSU last season.