MVC Basketball: Ranking of 25 best players from last decade (2013-23)

10. Marques Townes

Townes is a 6’4 combo guard from Edison, New Jersey who got his start at Fairleigh Dickinson, though that’s clearly not where he had his best days. After two seasons with those Knights, he transferred to Loyola-Chicago and was an impactful presence in the Rambler’s backcourt for his final two seasons of eligibility, including the Ramblers’ major breakout in 2018.

That junior season was special, with Townes contributing 11.1 points and 4.0 rebounds per game as the Ramblers advanced to the Final Four. He had 18 points and what was effectively the game-winning shot in the Sweet Sixteen over Nevada and was a key piece of that unforgettable run. As a senior, his role was even greater, averaging 15.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.6 assists, including career-high 28 and 32-point performances against Drake during a year that ended in the NIT.

After arriving via transfer, Townes became a massive part of the Ramblers’ history as a starter and an important weapon on that Final Four squad. He then took the reins and became the key offensive piece for Loyola, winning MVC Player of the Year in his senior season. He’d become one of the conference’s top scorers and rebounders and finished 2nd in assists. No matter what happens in the years to come, Townes’ name will be remembered at Loyola-Chicago, perhaps for generations.