The Valparaiso Beacons Fan Zone Forum

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"Our offense is a read-and-react offense and it's based on making decisions based on what the defense gives you."

This is a quote from another coach about their team's offense. I immediately thought that if someone were to ask what kind of offense Valpo runs, that would make a pretty good elevator speech.

Here's a deeper dive into read-and-react from its creator. Highly informative:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g22S0Z2WA2o

With Hedstrom being a question mark, most of the rest of our new faces look to be good or great fits with the Read and React. We seem to have the shooters and the experienced judgement types to hit the ground running very quickly. Looking back at Sackey he was unfortunately a total misfit for this style of half court action and that helps explain his struggles. I'm still trying to mentally picture if King will need to make some small adjustments or if the reactions will naturally flow from his and Anderson's reads?

The fact that they played together should help that somewhat.

Good article contrasting the effectiveness of Purdue's motion offense with the ineffectiveness of Indiana's patterned offense.

https://www.thedailyhoosier.com/probably-not-a-good-thing-purdue-guard-said-he-knew-all-of-indianas-plays/

This team is built to win the MVC. On paper there are no team weaknesses. BTW, lack of experience playing together is not a weakness, it's an excuse for failure. I can't picture anyone on this roster using that as an excuse - ever, from 6th year player Eron all the way down to 1st year player Keyondre, and everyone in between. I'm only saying Keyondre because I watched several of his games, and believe me the bigger the odds against pulling out a game, the tougher he got. Hopefully, our other freshmen are cut out of the same mold. I have no reason to think they're not.

Come on!  Somebody has to have had a peak at some open gym or a practice to give us SOMETHING to chew on!  PLEASE!!

Did Sheldon and Emil spill the beans in the latest Union Street Hoops on some things that the coaching staff might have wanted to be held close to the vest??? Sheldon said that we are no longer running the motion offense and that we have a new offense. Emil said that Joe Hedstrom has not been practicing much because he is injured. Not sure the coaching staff would have wanted that information out in the public domain.

Great episode!

Quote from: FWalum on July 24, 2021, 02:48:12 PMSheldon said that we are no longer running the motion offense and that we have a new offense.

I interpreted it more to mean that with the change in player talents the execution no longer has the dead ends of 20-21. To state it in my own words maybe we now have the people that can make the Lottich system thrive? Hard to know exactly what Sheldon meant but I think he said said that we have a "different" offense with a heavy emphasis on that specific word.

It was a great interview as always.  I took away a few things: 1) the attitude is SOOOOO much better!  Ben said it a couple of times how the team was just getting along a lot better. 2) Kithier is playing the 5 and really impressed Ben with his moves etc.  Sounds like he could be a Matt Howard or Cory Johnson type.  If so it is a game changer. 3)though the indication was that Joe is injured, what Emil said about how high his motor runs was pretty exciting for a 7'.  Emil also said Joe will really help against teams with a big body center. 4) Connor said a couple of times how we now had a bunch of shooters and how that will open things up and finally, 5) how impressed Sheldon was with the play of Kevion!

I definitely felt like we got the most out of Ben that reflected how the remaining players felt about last year. Especially talking about how some players made it clear they wanted to leave halfway through the year and how the attitude is just way better and people are hanging out.  It really sounds like there was a crew of negative nancies that might have ruined it for others. I know first hand how a toxic duo or trio can suck in others and sour a locker room/group. I thought Eron's statement that Lottich is always honest was an interesting one as well even as he gives guys Leeway.  It really seems that Lottich seems to think the players are responsible for themselves and he shouldn't have to ride them to care or work harder and just expects that of them.  Good when you have work horses like Sheldon or Kiser but maybe not great for other players who want/need a bit of coddling, more hands on touch. Definitely think he may need to learn to recognize when those that need more "watching" are getting out of hand and intercede a bit more. I also think that more time for team bonding is important. Two years ago we only lost Javonn (and Pauls' statement made me think he believes that if the team wasn't forced to immediately go home after the tournament he might have never left) and we know at the time they had their long international trip and lots of team bonding time.

Quote from: vu72 on July 25, 2021, 08:09:58 AM
It was a great interview as always.  I took away a few things: 1) the attitude is SOOOOO much better!  Ben said it a couple of times how the team was just getting along a lot better. 2) Kithier is playing the 5 and really impressed Ben with his moves etc.  Sounds like he could be a Matt Howard or Cory Johnson type.  If so it is a game changer. 3)though the indication was that Joe is injured, what Emil said about how high his motor runs was pretty exciting for a 7'.  Emil also said Joe will really help against teams with a big body center. 4) Connor said a couple of times how we now had a bunch of shooters and how that will open things up and finally, 5) how impressed Sheldon was with the play of Kevion!

Good stuff.

I was multitasking while listening so don't hold me to this, but didn't Eron mention Preston as someone who has impressed him? Also recall Slim's name being brought up by someone in the group - maybe Sheldon?

Quote from: wh on July 25, 2021, 12:40:22 PM

Quote from: vu72 on July 25, 2021, 08:09:58 AM
It was a great interview as always.  I took away a few things: 1) the attitude is SOOOOO much better!  Ben said it a couple of times how the team was just getting along a lot better. 2) Kithier is playing the 5 and really impressed Ben with his moves etc.  Sounds like he could be a Matt Howard or Cory Johnson type.  If so it is a game changer. 3)though the indication was that Joe is injured, what Emil said about how high his motor runs was pretty exciting for a 7'.  Emil also said Joe will really help against teams with a big body center. 4) Connor said a couple of times how we now had a bunch of shooters and how that will open things up and finally, 5) how impressed Sheldon was with the play of Kevion!

Good stuff.

I was multitasking while listening so don't hold me to this, but didn't Eron mention Preston as someone who has impressed him? Also recall Slim's name being brought up by someone in the group - maybe Sheldon?

Very true.  It surprised me a little that of all the newcomers the walk-on was mentioned.  Clearly Preston has talent and maybe more than what was thought during recruiting.  He is also the most hungry trying to earn a scholarship. Slim was mentioned but not is any depth. I recall Paul asking about him for reaction but really not much was said.

Quote from: vu72 on July 25, 2021, 01:13:18 PMVery true.  It surprised me a little that of all the newcomers the walk-on was mentioned.  Clearly Preston has talent and maybe more than what was thought during recruiting.  He is also the most hungry trying to earn a scholarship.

Just from memory I'm thinking Kiser played something like 150 to 180 minutes his walk on season. As deep as our 21-22 team is, Preston will have to be great to find much more than 100 minutes. Sight unseen I'm hoping he reaches that mark!

Quote from: justducky on July 26, 2021, 12:55:25 PM

Quote from: vu72 on July 25, 2021, 01:13:18 PMVery true.  It surprised me a little that of all the newcomers the walk-on was mentioned.  Clearly Preston has talent and maybe more than what was thought during recruiting.  He is also the most hungry trying to earn a scholarship.

Just from memory I'm thinking Kiser played something like 150 to 180 minutes his walk on season. As deep as our 21-22 team is, Preston will have to be great to find much more than 100 minutes. Sight unseen I'm hoping he reaches that mark!

I think Preston has a real shot to earn a scholarship in the future. He apparently has Kiser characteristics and really pushes guys in practice. Every successful team needs those guys.

Could definitely see how, if we continue seeing higher number of transfers across the board, it could be easy for him to earn a scholarship. Odds are there are going to be a few openings at the end of this season and if he proves himself that makes it easy to fill one of the holes if they occur.

With recent covid developments does anyone think it will affect basketball seating/masking for the coming season?

I'm hopeful things will be better although it's hard to tell with how high cases went last year in the fall. It does seem this new variant spikes high and fast and then falls as you can already see in the UK. I think it's also pushed some fence sitters to get vaccinated (rates of first time shots are rising) and has encouraged more vaccine mandates in work places and else where. Hopefully, with approval coming for those under 12 by hopefully September and FDA fully approving it we will continue to see increased vaccination rates that allow for continued relaxation of requirements.

The College Sports Madness Top 144 is coming out daily. So far teams of interest for this fanbase would be Butler #95, Wright St #96, Northern Iowa #103 (4'th in MVC) and Evansville at #125  :o.

Quote from: VU2014 on August 01, 2021, 11:03:31 PM

Quote from: justducky on July 26, 2021, 12:55:25 PM

Quote from: vu72 on July 25, 2021, 01:13:18 PMVery true.  It surprised me a little that of all the newcomers the walk-on was mentioned.  Clearly Preston has talent and maybe more than what was thought during recruiting.  He is also the most hungry trying to earn a scholarship.

Just from memory I'm thinking Kiser played something like 150 to 180 minutes his walk on season. As deep as our 21-22 team is, Preston will have to be great to find much more than 100 minutes. Sight unseen I'm hoping he reaches that mark!

I think Preston has a real shot to earn a scholarship in the future. He apparently has Kiser characteristics and really pushes guys in practice. Every successful team needs those guys.

I played for Preston's dad (who was a hell of a player in his own right) in high school. If he has the kind of intensity/drive/determination that his father had, he will be successful.

For those of us who have kinda had enough of the Beacons debate, here is something that might just get your basketball juices flowing again.  The first is an interview with Trevor Anderson. Note that at one point he mentions that Kobe(King) is his roommate.  No doubt that was a key in getting Kobe to Valpo (thank you Trevor!)Another interesting point is how he learned to not turn the ball over from his coach dad.  Seems we always end up pretty happy with coaches kids.

The second one is a highlite reel of Trevor playing.  Wow!  You gotta love the speed he plays at!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KM7w4ey94IY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yJog6AGaAL4

It is time to win, no excuses, time to progress and make basketball successful at Valpo.

A good preseason take on the Valley and what to expect this year. The writer takes a poke at Valpo's new Nickname and even greater swipe at the released logos (hates both).

It gives good detail and depth on each team. A great read

https://staringatthefloorboards.wordpress.com/

Quote from: VUBBFan on August 22, 2021, 11:57:40 AM
A good preseason take on the Valley and what to expect this year. The writer takes a poke at Valpo's new Nickname and even greater swipe at the released logos (hates both).

It gives good detail and depth on each team. A great read

https://staringatthefloorboards.wordpress.com/

I could care less what this person thinks about us being the Beacons.  I suppose he thinks being a Rambler (?) a Bulldog (really unique) a tree, or an "Ace" (?) is better, or maybe "a Red Bird" wow!  That is a terrifying thought!

As for the article, probably spot on.  With zero experience seeing how all our guys mess, the pick seems reasonable. I thought it VERY interesting when he said that Donovan Clay "might eat some minutes from Keaton Harvey", which, he thought, "would be a mistake"

In any event, we had dramatically improved our talent and depth. Now we just have to win!!!!

From the Trevor Anderson mix tape...that team was darn good considering that two of Trevor's teammates later were high D1 players.

Quote from: VUBBFan on August 22, 2021, 11:57:40 AM
A good preseason take on the Valley and what to expect this year. The writer takes a poke at Valpo's new Nickname and even greater swipe at the released logos (hates both).

It gives good detail and depth on each team. A great read

https://staringatthefloorboards.wordpress.com/

Many on our board have focused mainly or exclusively on our own team talent upgrades. This same distraction slowed my appreciation of just how well the Valley had recruited and retained players from the expanded pool. I might arbitrarily and somewhat accurately state that Valpo might start the year a 15% better team than our bunch that blew town for greener pastures. Thats great, but if the average MVC team is also 10 to 12% better then we still could be destined for a bottom half finish.

Like you I can't wait to see this team take the floor. I also can't wait to see the Valley in non conference. My expectations are very high!

Quote from: vu72 on August 22, 2021, 01:00:50 PM

Quote from: VUBBFan on August 22, 2021, 11:57:40 AM
A good preseason take on the Valley and what to expect this year. The writer takes a poke at Valpo's new Nickname and even greater swipe at the released logos (hates both).

It gives good detail and depth on each team. A great read

https://staringatthefloorboards.wordpress.com/

I could care less what this person thinks about us being the Beacons.  I suppose he thinks being a Rambler (?) a Bulldog (really unique) a tree, or an "Ace" (?) is better, or maybe "a Red Bird" wow!  That is a terrifying thought!

As for the article, probably spot on.  With zero experience seeing how all our guys mess, the pick seems reasonable. I thought it VERY interesting when he said that Donovan Clay "might eat some minutes from Keaton Harvey", which, he thought, "would be a mistake"

In any event, we had dramatically improved our talent and depth. Now we just have to win!!!!

Sorry, I have to do it 72 :).  If you could care less, that means that you are not at the lowest point of caring yet.  In other words, you do care a little bit.  If you could not care less, then you are already at the lowest point of caring.  The whole regardless vs. irregardless thing is my biggest pet peeve, but this other one is a close second lol.  The dictionary folks even made irregardless an official word in the last year, because so many Americans have no clue and would never learn.

Quote from: valpotx on August 23, 2021, 01:25:53 AM

Quote from: vu72 on August 22, 2021, 01:00:50 PM

Quote from: VUBBFan on August 22, 2021, 11:57:40 AM
A good preseason take on the Valley and what to expect this year. The writer takes a poke at Valpo's new Nickname and even greater swipe at the released logos (hates both).

It gives good detail and depth on each team. A great read

https://staringatthefloorboards.wordpress.com/

I could care less what this person thinks about us being the Beacons.  I suppose he thinks being a Rambler (?) a Bulldog (really unique) a tree, or an "Ace" (?) is better, or maybe "a Red Bird" wow!  That is a terrifying thought!

As for the article, probably spot on.  With zero experience seeing how all our guys mess, the pick seems reasonable. I thought it VERY interesting when he said that Donovan Clay "might eat some minutes from Keaton Harvey", which, he thought, "would be a mistake"

In any event, we had dramatically improved our talent and depth. Now we just have to win!!!!

Sorry, I have to do it 72 :).  If you could care less, that means that you are not at the lowest point of caring yet.  In other words, you do care a little bit.  If you could not care less, then you are already at the lowest point of caring.  The whole regardless vs. irregardless thing is my biggest pet peeve, but this other one is a close second lol.  The dictionary folks even made irregardless an official word in the last year, because so many Americans have no clue and would never learn.

Got me!  Well played!

Quote from: justducky on August 22, 2021, 10:01:37 PMI might arbitrarily and somewhat accurately state that Valpo might start the year a 15% better team than our bunch that blew town for greener pastures.

So let's take a look at this assumption.  Last year, for the most part, our starting lineup was Sackey, McMillan, Krikke, Clay and Gordon.  I would think that of these five the only one still in the starting lineup is Ben.  So who replaces then missing pieces?  Well, my guess is that Trevor Anderson replaces Sackey, and Thomas Kithier replaces McMillan.  Who replaces Clay?  Probably Taylor.  Does Gordon still start?  I guess not and would go with Edwards to start and certainly King once he is eligible.

So Sackey, who shot 14.6% from the 3 is replaced by a guy known for his 3 point shooting and a former Mr. Basketball and McMillan, who scored 3.4 ppg and added 1.6 boards and shot 33% overall from the field, is replaced by a guy who on occasion started at Michigan State and in a limited role scored 2.4 ppg and 2.5 rebounds while shooting 65% from the field.  Now let's add the other guys...No don't need to!  If just 2 of our starters are significantly better, does that add up to a 15% improvement?  I think a little (or a lot!) better.  We'll see soon.

The line that really sticks out to me in the article is " have a good chance to be Matt Lottich's best team since joining the MVC, which he desperately needs since development of the program has really stalled out."   

This is dead on.  This season to me is one where we take giant leaps forward and if not we are in trouble for the near future.

We have experienced players so the "they are all new card" doesn't jive.  Plus they have been together all summer. 

I'm hoping we do not see a disorganized offense like the last 4-5 years. 

Great article, and like was said, I forgot how good the MVC may be this year. That said, if we finish 7th I will not be happy. We have a lot of unknowns, so fully understand being listed that far down the rankings. But if it comes together like we hope, no reason we can't be top 4, if not better.

Quote from: vu72 on August 23, 2021, 10:00:47 AM
So Sackey, who shot 14.6% from the 3 is replaced by a guy known for his 3 point shooting and a former Mr. Basketball and McMillan, who scored 3.4 ppg and added 1.6 boards and shot 33% overall from the field, is replaced by a guy who on occasion started at Michigan State and in a limited role scored 2.4 ppg and 2.5 rebounds while shooting 65% from the field.  Now let's add the other guys...No don't need to!  If just 2 of our starters are significantly better, does that add up to a 15% improvement?  I think a little (or a lot!) better.  We'll see soon.

I agree with you vu72. The improvement in the roster is dramatic, much more than 15% in my opinion. Potentially 4 of the 5 positions could be upgraded. The only thing that might prevent a big improvement is how well they play together. Remember the bunch of high profile transfers on the 17-18 Missouri State team with Alize Johnson that should have won the league ??? I don't see that collapse happening with this group of transfers, but stranger things have happened. Barring significant injuries or COVID forfeitures, this team should be a top 4 league team with a higher ceiling.

I am going to be totally disappointed if we finish 7th. Lottich has the talent to compete in this conference, now let's see if her can coach. I have been frustrated with his coaching at times since he has been here. I never felt like he has gotten the best out of his players. I hope he can prove me wrong this year.

Quote from: tjjvalpo on August 23, 2021, 09:21:31 PM
I am going to be totally disappointed if we finish 7th. Lottich has the talent to compete in this conference, now let's see if her can coach. I have been frustrated with his coaching at times since he has been here. I never felt like he has gotten the best out of his players. I hope he can prove me wrong this year.

He's had enough coaching experience under his belt to be able to take a very talented group of players to the top of the heap in the MVC. Other coaches in the MVC have done it. We should expect nothing less from him this year than a run for the conference championship. If he can't get it done, will the delusional sycophants make even more excuses this year?

I'm hoping that he can do it. As one who has consistently criticised him, I would be more than thrilled to say that I was and am wrong about him. But I remain skeptical. Show me.

There are so many new, moving parts to this year's lineup, and perhaps the best player won't be suiting up until the turn of the new year. I think it's quite possible for the regular season to be a bit uneven, with a truly fun possibility that the team will start to gel magnificently just in time for Arch Madness.

Quote from: tjjvalpo on August 23, 2021, 09:21:31 PM
I am going to be totally disappointed if we finish 7th. Lottich has the talent to compete in this conference, now let's see if her can coach. I have been frustrated with his coaching at times since he has been here. I never felt like he has gotten the best out of his players. I hope he can prove me wrong this year.

I can't think of a better way to test a coach than to have a bunch like this march into his gym. Matt might still be muttering "now what?".

Quote from: vuny98 on August 23, 2021, 12:40:39 PMGreat article, and like was said, I forgot how good the MVC may be this year.

This bubble of extra eligibility will likely make 80% of D-1 teams better, deeper and more experienced. If you look carefully at each Valley team only Loyola (Krutwig gone  :'() and ISU red and blue look maybe stationary to only slightly improved. The other 6 look clearly better if they can stay healthy. That will be some stiff competition. Getting wins both in and out of conference will be harder than ever. A 5 or even 6 loss Valley record might win the league. It should be fun!

I'm not going to hang my hat on any true standing b/c like others have said we are not the only team that has improved.

Last year our finish looked good but we were all miserable watching the inconsistency that ended with a mass exodus of players.

I'm going to be looking for 3 things this year:
1. Do we look like we belong on the floor with the teams we are playing consistently. I want hard fought games where when we lose it doesn't feel like we gave the game away
2. Do we look lost on the court? Does our offensive scheme work with the players we have?
3. Do we have a team that is enjoyable to watch and root for (this one honestly is the most important to me)

I'll decide what rank feels right for me once I see 1. our team and 2. the other MVC teams and what they can do.

I do feel our success should be viewed as  how competitive we are against the top teams and how we dominate lower teams.  This is going to be a tough conference.  I believe it's going to be hard for any team to dominate the conference but we should own our own floor, and hopefully steal a few away wins.  I also want to see lots of growth as the season progresses.  I think that is the true sign of good coaching.  Not where you start, but how you end.  And if/when we do lose in the tournament (hopefully we win it all) it should be a hard fought battle that leaves both teams scarred. 

Quote from: usc4valpo on August 22, 2021, 08:49:27 AM
It is time to win, no excuses, time to progress and make basketball successful at Valpo.

Just win, baby!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Quote from: covufan on August 25, 2021, 08:16:08 AM

Quote from: usc4valpo on August 22, 2021, 08:49:27 AM
It is time to win, no excuses, time to progress and make basketball successful at Valpo.

Just win, baby!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

https://twitter.com/nickturner53/status/1430527755767189506

Wow...Stanford. Love it!   

When the Lighthouses battle the Trees it will come down to quickness.

Quote from: crusadermoe on August 25, 2021, 04:26:44 PM

Wow...Stanford. Love it!   

When the Lighthouses battle the Trees it will come down to quickness.

So.... Will the Trees throw shade on the Lighthouses, or will the Lighthouses shine through. Stay tuned.

Quote from: nkvu on August 25, 2021, 06:09:31 PM

Quote from: crusadermoe on August 25, 2021, 04:26:44 PMWow...Stanford. Love it! When the Lighthouses battle the Trees it will come down to quickness.

So.... Will the Trees throw shade on the Lighthouses, or will the Lighthouses shine through. Stay tuned.

Another reason to get rid of the god awful lighthouse logo... people referring to us as the lighthouses  :lol:

Quote from: nkvu on August 25, 2021, 06:09:31 PM

Quote from: crusadermoe on August 25, 2021, 04:26:44 PM

Wow...Stanford. Love it!   

When the Lighthouses battle the Trees it will come down to quickness.

So.... Will the Trees throw shade on the Lighthouses, or will the Lighthouses shine through. Stay tuned.

You sound as bad as I do when trying to use cliches, puns and synonyms. It's great, isn't it?

A very nice team photo with distinctive poses by each of the players, especially as they are backlit and their shadows emphasize beacons of light. However, though the post includes the #WeAreBeacons hashtag, it is nice to see the shield as the logo and no silly lighthouse shirts on any of the players.


[tweet]1431304708514320384[/tweet]

But the guy (not me) who said we are now the "Beamin' Beacons" and need to square off against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons gets the prize!   

Quote from: bbtds on August 26, 2021, 05:35:57 PM

Quote from: nkvu on August 25, 2021, 06:09:31 PM

Quote from: crusadermoe on August 25, 2021, 04:26:44 PM

Wow...Stanford. Love it!   

When the Lighthouses battle the Trees it will come down to quickness.

So.... Will the Trees throw shade on the Lighthouses, or will the Lighthouses shine through. Stay tuned.

You sound as bad as I do when trying to use cliches, puns and synonyms. It's great, isn't it?

Yep. The new nickname will provide many new opportunities.

Student sections will have fun with this on road trips, if a packed house on a Saturday night.

Quote from: AB on August 27, 2021, 04:33:13 PM
Student sections will have fun with this on road trips, if a packed house on a Saturday night.

All the Saturday night games at the ARC are non D1, the rest on Saturdays are noon start times.

Quote from: bbtds on August 27, 2021, 08:11:20 PM

Quote from: AB on August 27, 2021, 04:33:13 PM
Student sections will have fun with this on road trips, if a packed house on a Saturday night.

All the Saturday night games at the ARC are non D1, the rest on Saturdays are noon start times.

I had not noticed that until you pointed it out. This really needs to stop. More premier games need to be scheduled on Friday or Saturday nights. Preferably when there is little other competing events (high school football and basketball games, etc.).

Looks like we got some guys who are going to be fun to watch.

https://twitter.com/AlBillets/status/1433189451954524162

https://twitter.com/AlBillets/status/1433189016724250624

The weights have now been added to the team roster and it is interesting to see what it means to have some more mature players.

Check these out:

Trevor Anderson  6'3" 205#   versus Preston Ruedinger  6'2" 180#

Thomas Kithier  6'8"  235#  versus Keyondre Young  6'8"  180#

Kobe King  6'4"  205#  versus  Trey Woodyard  6'6"  190#

Not saying they are necessarily better because of bigger frames but these type players are not going to be pushed around and I think that is a good thing!

Looks like Ben has added 5# and the bigger shock is Eron, who has LOST 20#!!  Presume this will make him much quicker.

Quote from: vu72 on September 02, 2021, 09:38:17 AMthe bigger shock is Eron, who has LOST 20#!! 

The pressure and criticism of his voluntary mascot-logo work might have taken a toll on his appetite!  ;)      Maybe he is destined for a larger ball handling role  ???

Quote from: justducky on September 02, 2021, 10:31:44 AM

Quote from: vu72 on September 02, 2021, 09:38:17 AMthe bigger shock is Eron, who has LOST 20#!!

The pressure and criticism of his voluntary mascot-logo work might have taken a toll on his appetite!  ;)      Maybe he is destined for a larger ball handling role  ???

Just a question. How does losing 20 lbs make you a better ball handler? I'm not saying EG will not handle the ball more but if he does will he then also be inclined not to bang inside with the opponents big men?

Quote from: bbtds on September 03, 2021, 12:57:42 PMJust a question. How does losing 20 lbs make you a better ball handler?

It doesn't but it might slightly improve mobility and quickness.

Quote from: bbtds on September 03, 2021, 12:57:42 PMI'm not saying EG will not handle the ball more but if he does will he then also be inclined not to bang inside with the opponents big men?

If Eron is 20 lbs lighter then nobody will want him banging around with the opposing bigs! If this weight loss is deliberate then maybe he or Matt see his opportunity to be more as a backup point distributor (a 1-2 and 3) instead of his (3-4 and 2) past play assignments. With our team depth I just don't see many minutes for him as a 3 or 4. At the same time our only true point guard is an untested freshman while Anderson was more of a 2 I think.  Thoughts?

Quote from: justducky on September 03, 2021, 08:19:27 PMAnderson was more of a 2 I think. 

Not sure where you are getting that from.  Everything I've seen of his game tape has him playing point. 247 has him listed there as well.

https://247sports.com/player/trevor-anderson-31082/

Quote from: vu72 on September 04, 2021, 09:10:52 AM

Quote from: justducky on September 03, 2021, 08:19:27 PMAnderson was more of a 2 I think.

Not sure where you are getting that from.  Everything I've seen of his game tape has him playing point. 247 has him listed there as well.

https://247sports.com/player/trevor-anderson-31082/

Assigning position for positionless basketball can be tricky. I have been assuming that Anderson will be called our starting 1 or point but will his play and shooting fit that definition? It was easy to call Sackey a point because he was too short and too terrible a shooter to call him anything else. Trevor might lead or compete for the team lead in 3 point attempts taken so that kind of throws him into a different category where calling him a half court 2-3 off or shooting guard might be more appropriate, particularly before King becomes available.

The bigger picture is where does Eron Gordon fit as a 185 lb guard with so much talented competition standing between him and playing time at the 4, the 3 and the 2? By default does he pick up some minutes as a 1 (whatever a 1 is) ???

Quote from: justducky on September 04, 2021, 12:03:35 PM

Quote from: vu72 on September 04, 2021, 09:10:52 AM

Quote from: justducky on September 03, 2021, 08:19:27 PMAnderson was more of a 2 I think.

Not sure where you are getting that from.  Everything I've seen of his game tape has him playing point. 247 has him listed there as well.

https://247sports.com/player/trevor-anderson-31082/

Assigning position for positionless basketball can be tricky. I have been assuming that Anderson will be called our starting 1 or point but will his play and shooting fit that definition? It was easy to call Sackey a point because he was too short and too terrible a shooter to call him anything else. Trevor might lead or compete for the team lead in 3 point attempts taken so that kind of throws him into a different category where calling him a half court 2-3 off or shooting guard might be more appropriate, particularly before King becomes available.

The bigger picture is where does Eron Gordon fit as a 185 lb guard with so much talented competition standing between him and playing time at the 4, the 3 and the 2? By default does he pick up some minutes as a 1 (whatever a 1 is) ???

I don't recall Eron having played the 3 or 4.

Quote from: justducky on September 04, 2021, 12:03:35 PM

Quote from: vu72 on September 04, 2021, 09:10:52 AM

Quote from: justducky on September 03, 2021, 08:19:27 PMAnderson was more of a 2 I think.

Not sure where you are getting that from.  Everything I've seen of his game tape has him playing point. 247 has him listed there as well.

https://247sports.com/player/trevor-anderson-31082/

Assigning position for positionless basketball can be tricky. I have been assuming that Anderson will be called our starting 1 or point but will his play and shooting fit that definition? It was easy to call Sackey a point because he was too short and too terrible a shooter to call him anything else. Trevor might lead or compete for the team lead in 3 point attempts taken so that kind of throws him into a different category where calling him a half court 2-3 off or shooting guard might be more appropriate, particularly before King becomes available.

The bigger picture is where does Eron Gordon fit as a 185 lb guard with so much talented competition standing between him and playing time at the 4, the 3 and the 2? By default does he pick up some minutes as a 1 (whatever a 1 is) ???

OK. So let's just call him "the primary guy bringing the ball past half court"!   ;)

I'd like to see us spice up the music for the team intro and lead up to the opening tip. Let's throw some Metallica in there somewhere, loud enough to shock a few hearts and blow a few speakers. Here's 1 of several possibilities:

https://youtube.com/watch?v=CD-E-LDc384&feature=share

Wh, The speakers have already been blown for at least 20 years.

Quote from: justducky on August 10, 2021, 09:28:42 AM
The College Sports Madness Top 144 is coming out daily. So far teams of interest for this fanbase would be Butler #95, Wright St #96, Northern Iowa #103 (4'th in MVC) and Evansville at #125  :o.

Stanford came in at #77. MSU hit 74. Today Drake predicted at #66. I'd expected the Bulldogs to be a bit higher and am now wondering how much past success bias might be slanted towards Loyola because it it frequently overdone. I think Drake will likely be better than the Ramblers but will wait and see like the rest of you.

Does anyone know when season tickets go on sale?

Quote from: Chairback on September 05, 2021, 12:26:53 PMDoes anyone know when season tickets go on sale?

They usually send out notices  to season ticket holders just after Labor Day. So anytime now, if you're a season ticket holder.
I think individual tickets then go on sale  2 1/2 - 3 weeks after that (end of Sept begining of Oct). 

Quote from: VUBBFan on September 05, 2021, 03:26:07 PM

Quote from: Chairback on September 05, 2021, 12:26:53 PMDoes anyone know when season tickets go on sale?

They usually send out notices  to season ticket holders just after Labor Day. So anytime now, if you're a season ticket holder.
I think individual tickets then go on sale  2 1/2 - 3 weeks after that (end of Sept begining of Oct). 

I'm waiting with great anticipation, almost as badly as my young daughters were back in the day for my return from Michigan City with their New Kids on the Block tickets, a trip I made during a blinding snow storm, no less. Those little girls had me hooked from the day they were born - and still do. lol

Quote from: wh on September 04, 2021, 04:35:36 PMI'd like to see us spice up the music for the team intro and lead up to the opening tip. Let's throw some Metallica in there somewhere, loud enough to shock a few hearts and blow a few speakers. Here's 1 of several possibilities: https://youtube.com/watch?v=CD-E-LDc384&feature=share

Doing it like Virginia Tech does it with their fans would be awesome. ROCK the ARC.


https://twitter.com/accnetwork/status/1433916233599143944

Quote from: VUBBFan on September 05, 2021, 08:15:07 PM

Quote from: wh on September 04, 2021, 04:35:36 PMI'd like to see us spice up the music for the team intro and lead up to the opening tip. Let's throw some Metallica in there somewhere, loud enough to shock a few hearts and blow a few speakers. Here's 1 of several possibilities: https://youtube.com/watch?v=CD-E-LDc384&feature=share

Doing it like Virginia Tech does it with their fans would be awesome. ROCK the ARC.


https://twitter.com/accnetwork/status/1433916233599143944

Wow! That is goosebumps cool!

I would like to see more motivating intro music, but it would be an act of malpractice on the part of the media folks if they don't play the following on the basketball scoreboard screen before the game: The Lighting of the Beacons—"Hope is kindled!"
 

Very cool!  Go Beacons!

Quote from: justducky on September 05, 2021, 10:51:02 AMToday Drake predicted at #66. I'd expected the Bulldogs to be a bit higher and am now wondering how much past success bias might be slanted towards Loyola because it it frequently overdone. I think Drake will likely be better than the Ramblers but will wait and see like the rest of you.

Toledo at #65. Their 3 point shooting numbers are crazy!  :o. Have we ever opened a season with a more difficult opponent? This isn't a warmup! This is a leap into the meat grinder against a MAC at large candidate.

This could be some great scheduling but for which team?? Are we sold out yet? ;)  What will the point spread be?

Looking in the archives I see that we have opened on the road or in tournaments against some as good or better teams but for season opening home games this might be as good as it gets! IPFW in 2015 was very solid and handpicked to build our at large case. We may have been hand picked by Toledo to help build an at large argument for them?

If any students are reading this message board. Please take the following survey.

https://twitter.com/morganfifield/status/1435310539652096004?s=21

This was a really fun podcast with Coach Gore. There was a lot of insight into the scheduling process in this episode.

I couldn't recommend it enough. We are very lucky to have Coach Gore with our program.

https://twitter.com/nwioren/status/1435780682727493636?s=21

Coach Gore is always entertaining and the podcast topic got discussed a bit also.  :)

Are we now able and committed to do 2 OOC buy games per season? Anybody know what these opponents cost? Even with future buy games it looks like our 6 D-1 OOC home games for this year would decline by at least 1 and maybe even 2 in the 22-23 season.

Popcorn fest parade film and commentary by Eron Gordon. Get First look at some of the new players.

https://twitter.com/EronGordon1/status/1436755933992996881

Quote from: VUBBFan on September 11, 2021, 02:28:34 PM
Popcorn fest parade film and commentary by Eron Gordon. Get First look at some of the new players.

https://twitter.com/EronGordon1/status/1436755933992996881

Great job by Eron! That circuit had to be a good 4 mile walk, more if they walked from campus up Calumet to Billings St. to where the parade line began.

EG with another winner! I recognized all of the girls because of their team stability and their roster pictures being posted. The guys were a bit more difficult. Met one named Slim who doesn't talk much so B-Rock fills in the gaps? T-Money? The 4'th Amigo? D-Train? Took an instant liking to Valpo Joe! Who did I miss?

https://twitter.com/coachkevindro/status/1439765946453970945?s=21

https://twitter.com/dariusdeaveiro/status/1441247348307349509?s=21

Quote from: VU2014 on September 23, 2021, 10:48:10 PM
https://twitter.com/dariusdeaveiro/status/1441247348307349509?s=21

Looked like he pretty much blew by Slim and Sheldon.  Perhaps a Daniel Sackey who can shoot!

He's the Daniel Sackey Canadian replacement. Does look like he can put the ball in the basket

Husband, Father, Associate Head Men's Basketball Coach at @ValpoU.
Incredible Coach. Incredible Open Minded Man!!!
"EP 32 - Luke Gore, Associate Head Coach at Valparaiso" at  https://t.co/X79xpu0ZDc (https://t.co/X79xpu0ZDc)

VERY interesting podcast. Luke breaks-down working for each one of the Drew's and also Matt. A pretty interesting look at the Valpo program over the last 20 years!

Highly recommended!

I just have to say I would really love for Valpo Basketball to surprise the Valley this season and be one of the top contending Teams. I'm really tired of other MVC program fans questioning Valpo.

We need to be better than what we've shown the last 4 seasons. The honeymoon is over and we need to elevate our performance as a program, top-down.

This means the teams needs to play better, the University needs to step up and put out a professional logo, & we need our big donors to step up with ARC renovation donations. Our student section needs to step up as well. Across the board we all need to do better. I think it all starts with a surprise run and that needs to happen this season. Energize the fans.

Quote from: VU2014 on September 28, 2021, 06:47:25 PMI just have to say I would really love for Valpo Basketball to surprise the Valley this season and be one of the top contending Teams. I'm really tired of other MVC program fans questioning Valpo. We need to be better than what we've shown the last 4 seasons. The honeymoon is over and we need to elevate our performance as a program, top-down. This means the teams needs to play better, the University needs to step up and put out a professional logo, & we need our big donors to step up with ARC renovation donations. Our student section needs to step up as well. Across the board we all need to do better. I think it all starts with a surprise run and that needs to happen this season. Energize the fans.

Well said. Could not agree more.

Every successful Team needs that great team chemistry walk-on player, like Luke Morrill.

https://twitter.com/valpo_hoops/status/1443792908981874690?s=21

This is what a 6-8 Mr. Basketball with guard skills looks like:

https://twitter.com/DreBrookins1/status/1443220347482951690?s=20

 :o

I spoke with a person very close to the program who told me Kithier is a bigger version of Cory Johnson.

Quote from: vu72 on October 03, 2021, 03:46:41 PM
I spoke with a person very close to the program who told me Kithier is a bigger version of Cory Johnson.

Cory could score 15-20 (or more) points on any given night. He had a strong low post game with a nice jump hook, was a good 3-pt. shooter (not great), and was an average on-ball low post defender and position rebounder on Valpo teams that would rather out score opponents than out-defend them. I already expect Tom to be a defender given Izzo's reputation as a defensive taskmaster. If he's anywhere close to Cory offensively and he can do it with consistency, we could have scoring options all over the court. What we don't need is a Mileek type scorer who would go 2-12 from 3 over 3 games, followed by 1 game 4-6.

Alcohol is coming to the ARC

http://www.valpotorch.com/news/article_4531a40a-2275-11ec-bd6f-67ade2f8ef97.html#tncms-source=article-nav-next

A wise choice and overdue

And there are only two restrooms in the ARC I believe for fans to use.

We are going to need more then booze to get people to Valpo to see a game.

Refreshing to hear in that article that this is one of many new efforts at getting more people to the ARC. Article also said they are going to be using new local sponsorships, in game activities, etc to try to get new families and young people to the games. While this should have always be a focus, glad to hear they are actually making an attempt now. I also saw that earlier this year a current valpo student that I believe is an intern of some sort with the athletics department sent out a survey to students about what they would like to see happen at games to get them to go. Based on the football and volleyball student attendance, it seems like we might have some fun student sections this year. That, paired with concerted efforts from the athletic department to get the general public to come, might combine for some good atmospheres this year. Additionally, it looks like we will have at least a semi competitive team this year, so hopefully we can compound this attendance into long term supporters.

They need to promote VU basketball to the Greater Chicagoland area. I lived about an hour or less from Valpo from 1983 until 1997 and never once received any information about VU basketball. I have friend that lives in Clarendon Hills, graduated from Valpo in the 90's and he has never once been approached about VU Basketball. He comes to 3-4 games a year, one or two as my guest and then a couple more. In 1997, we had about 4 or 5 thousand Alumni come to a Valpo/Yale football game at Soldier Field, because they promoted it.

Whenever the devil harasses you, seek the company of men or drink more, or joke and talk nonsense, or do some other merry thing. Sometimes we must drink more, sport, recreate ourselves, and even sin a little to spite the devil, so that we leave him no place for troubling our consciences with trifles. We are conquered if we try too conscientiously not to sin at all. So when the devil says to you: do not drink, answer him: I will drink, and right freely, just because you tell me not to.

Martin Luther

Quote from: vok22 on October 04, 2021, 06:10:25 PM
Refreshing to hear in that article that this is one of many new efforts at getting more people to the ARC. Article also said they are going to be using new local sponsorships, in game activities, etc to try to get new families and young people to the games. While this should have always be a focus, glad to hear they are actually making an attempt now. I also saw that earlier this year a current valpo student that I believe is an intern of some sort with the athletics department sent out a survey to students about what they would like to see happen at games to get them to go. Based on the football and volleyball student attendance, it seems like we might have some fun student sections this year. That, paired with concerted efforts from the athletic department to get the general public to come, might combine for some good atmospheres this year. Additionally, it looks like we will have at least a semi competitive team this year, so hopefully we can compound this attendance into long term supporters.

Best approach ever to increase attendance from the general public:

If you win, they will come.

Valpo Average Attendance

88 1812
89 1817
90 1727
91 2356
92 2031
93 2640
94 3251
95 3446
96 3886
97 3625
98 3861
99 4327

I'm lickin' me chops mate.

https://twitter.com/JonRothstein/status/1445330422154498051

https://twitter.com/valpobasketball/status/1445460035358711811?s=21

https://twitter.com/valpobasketball/status/1445460035358711811?s=21

Get to see some of the new players.

https://twitter.com/EronGordon1/status/1446197651351945216

Just a question--is Kobe King eligible to play in the 2 exhibition games before the regular season starts? And I remember hearing he would have to sit out 9 or so games to start the regular season, but also remember hearing he won't be allowed to play until the second semester. Does anybody know which one is accurate because that is a big difference in terms of amount of games.

Quote from: vok22 on October 08, 2021, 10:52:19 AM
Just a question--is Kobe King eligible to play in the 2 exhibition games before the regular season starts? And I remember hearing he would have to sit out 9 or so games to start the regular season, but also remember hearing he won't be allowed to play until the second semester. Does anybody know which one is accurate because that is a big difference in terms of amount of games.

This could be one of those "2 things can be right at the same time" things. There are 9 D-1 games in the 1st semester, ending on Dec. 13th. Kobe 1st game will probably be E. MI on 12/20, followed by 2 more OOC games before the conference grind begins. Having practiced with the team all this time and 3 OOC games to shake the rust off, Kobe should be Kobe beginning with ILSU on 1/2.

Received this email:


Season Ticket Holder Open Practice Event
Athletics-Recreation Center
Wednesday
October 13th - 5:30 PM
Valpo Athletics is thrilled to have you, our loyal, enthusiastic, and loud fans back in the stands this season.  The ARC was not the same without you.  As we look forward to what promises to be an exciting non-conference slate and a demanding Missouri Valley Conference season your support means more than ever. 
We want to provide you the opportunity to become reacquainted with your favorite players and be introduced to this year's new members.  You are cordially invited to the annual Season Ticket Holder Open Practice event on October 13th beginning at 5:30 PM. 
You will be able to catch a glimpse of both our women's and men's basketball teams followed by introductions and words from Matt Lottich and Mary Evans.  Tickets, parking and hospitality passes will be available for pick up. 
As a thank you for supporting the teams we will have exclusive shirts for our Season Ticket Holders.  These shirts will be distributed at a special Season Ticket Holder game during the season.  The Open Practice will be your opportunity to put in your size request.  If you cannot attend, your tickets/passes will be placed in the mail and a ticket office representative will follow up for your t-shirt size(s).
Thank you again for your continued support and your commitment to Valpo Basketball.

Go Beacons!

If you still need to renew your tickets please contact the Valpo Ticket Office at 219-464-5233.

https://twitter.com/FatherHarry1/status/1446233047758778368?s=20

Sheldon, Slim, and Darius set to For Tonight. There are several videos out there featuring these guys. I hope everyone is working this hard on their own. I remember reading last year that Sheldon was a gym rat. Hopefully, it's contagious.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/CUQ3L9TlWF6/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet

A good look at this year's players

https://www.instagram.com/reel/CU5YuDBAinT/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

The individual player pictures are finally up and the circle on oval emojis are finally down. Now I don't recognize anybody!  :'(.  Who are these guys?

Where was that team picture taken?  It looks like there is a basketball court by Memorial/Guild now?

Quote from: wh on October 08, 2021, 05:12:24 PM
Received this email:


Season Ticket Holder Open Practice Event
Athletics-Recreation Center
Wednesday
October 13th - 5:30 PM
Valpo Athletics is thrilled to have you, our loyal, enthusiastic, and loud fans back in the stands this season.  The ARC was not the same without you.  As we look forward to what promises to be an exciting non-conference slate and a demanding Missouri Valley Conference season your support means more than ever. 
We want to provide you the opportunity to become reacquainted with your favorite players and be introduced to this year's new members.  You are cordially invited to the annual Season Ticket Holder Open Practice event on October 13th beginning at 5:30 PM. 
You will be able to catch a glimpse of both our women's and men's basketball teams followed by introductions and words from Matt Lottich and Mary Evans.  Tickets, parking and hospitality passes will be available for pick up. 
As a thank you for supporting the teams we will have exclusive shirts for our Season Ticket Holders.  These shirts will be distributed at a special Season Ticket Holder game during the season.  The Open Practice will be your opportunity to put in your size request.  If you cannot attend, your tickets/passes will be placed in the mail and a ticket office representative will follow up for your t-shirt size(s).
Thank you again for your continued support and your commitment to Valpo Basketball.

Go Beacons!

If you still need to renew your tickets please contact the Valpo Ticket Office at 219-464-5233.

I was not able to attend the open practice event this evening. Did anyone else attend? What were your impressions? Paul, I know you must have gone. Chairback? Anyone?

Couldn't make it tonight. But I do have video someone sent to me.  How can I upload? 

Quote from: Chairback on October 13, 2021, 10:24:16 PM
Couldn't make it tonight. But I do have video someone sent to me.  How can I upload? 

Uploading video (other than you tube stuff) is beyond my pay grade. Can someone help Chairback so we can see some video?

I attended.  On the men's half of the court after warm-up layups, we saw a three point contest and a dunking contest.

It was hard to make much of a judgement about the players, but Preston Ruedinger's shooting ability was on display -- I wonder if he'll be getting playing time.  He may be another Seth Colclasure, but would Seth have been given plying time in the MVC?

I was sad to see Emil in a boot.  We'll see how long that lasts and if he can stay healthy.

Other than that there wasn't much.  We were out of there in forty-five minutes.

Quote from: justducky on October 13, 2021, 06:13:03 PM
The individual player pictures are finally up and the circle on oval emojis are finally down. Now I don't recognize anybody!  :'(. Who are these guys?

As in Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid?

Quote from: Just Sayin on October 14, 2021, 10:26:59 AM

Quote from: justducky on October 13, 2021, 06:13:03 PM
The individual player pictures are finally up and the circle on oval emojis are finally down. Now I don't recognize anybody!  :'(. Who are these guys?

As in Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid?

Thats it!  :o  We must have hired them from Pinkerton with shoot and kill, hit orders for all of our usual bad guy Valley opponents. This sounds dangerous! No wonder Lottich wanted an 18 man roster, posse.

Quote from: valpotx on October 13, 2021, 09:52:25 PM
Where was that team picture taken?  It looks like there is a basketball court by Memorial/Guild now?

The court is next to the tennis courts kinda behind left field fence for the softball field.  Google map it.

Coach Lottich at the open practice described Hedstrom as a 4th year Freshman implying that he still has four years of eligibility left. I know Anderson and Taylor only have one year left, but does Kithier and King both have two years left? Based on their profiles, I think so.

Quote from: tjjvalpo on October 15, 2021, 06:32:51 AM
Coach Lottich at the open practice described Hedstrom as a 4th year Freshman implying that he still has four years of eligibility left. I know Anderson and Taylor only have one year left, but does Kithier and King both have two years left? Based on their profiles, I think so.

After rereading PO's article about Kobe King coming to Valpo, I'm thoroughly confused. From the article:

"King believes that he'll have to miss "nine or 10 games" at the start of the 2021-22 season and that he'll also have a medical redshirt year to use following a knee injury that cut his freshman season short in 2017-18. All told, King should have two years of eligibility for Valparaiso."

If it's as simple as he can't play until the 1st semester is over, why wouldn't he say it that way? Instead, he references a specific number of games. And yet, at the time he made this comment Valpo's schedule was nowhere close to being finished, so he couldn't have been counting games that he couldn't play in. So, what is he referencing? When exactly is he eligible?

PO, you talked to him. You've had months to follow up if you weren't sure what he meant. Exactly when is he eligible and what was the basis for deciding his eligibility date?

https://www.nwitimes.com/sports/college/valparaiso-university/valparaiso-lands-former-wisconsin-starter-kobe-king-who-received-ncaa-waiver-to-play/article_9edf1b23-ef67-5202-9dc9-9bad53686b52.amp.html?__twitter_impression=true

Quote from: wh on October 15, 2021, 07:52:46 AM

Quote from: tjjvalpo on October 15, 2021, 06:32:51 AM
Coach Lottich at the open practice described Hedstrom as a 4th year Freshman implying that he still has four years of eligibility left. I know Anderson and Taylor only have one year left, but does Kithier and King both have two years left? Based on their profiles, I think so.

After rereading PO's article about Kobe King coming to Valpo, I'm thoroughly confused. From the article:

"King believes that he'll have to miss "nine or 10 games" at the start of the 2021-22 season and that he'll also have a medical redshirt year to use following a knee injury that cut his freshman season short in 2017-18. All told, King should have two years of eligibility for Valparaiso."

If it's as simple as he can't play until the 1st semester is over, why wouldn't he say it that way? Instead, he references a specific number of games. And yet, at the time he made this comment Valpo's schedule was nowhere close to being finished, so he couldn't have been counting games that he couldn't play in. So, what is he referencing? When exactly is he eligible?

PO, you talked to him. You've had months to follow up if you weren't sure what he meant. Exactly when is he eligible and what was the basis for deciding his eligibility date?

https://www.nwitimes.com/sports/college/valparaiso-university/valparaiso-lands-former-wisconsin-starter-kobe-king-who-received-ncaa-waiver-to-play/article_9edf1b23-ef67-5202-9dc9-9bad53686b52.amp.html?__twitter_impression=true

As engaged and plugged in to Valpo basketball as we all are, it never ceases to amaze me what a weak connection there is between the team and the fans when it comes knowing important facts. Why  should there be confusion around when what may well be our star player is going to be eligible to play? They obviously know. Why don't we know? Did anyone know that Emil is wearing a boot? And if you did, do you know the back story or his condition currently or if he's improving or when he's projected to be able to play? Days? Weeks? Never? Anything?

Where's Todd? For years he was a regular poster who regularly filled in the blanks about things like this without violating any rules. Now the only time he says anything about Valpo basketball is 15 minutes before game time. Where's Brandon? He's another guy who no longer adds any value to the board. Do we even have a Post Tribune reporter anymore? What happened to our conduit???

Quote from: wh on October 15, 2021, 10:40:22 AM
As engaged and plugged in to Valpo basketball as we all are, it never ceases to amaze me what a weak connection there is between the team and the fans when it comes knowing important facts. Why  should there be confusion around when what may well be our star player is going to be eligible to play? They obviously know. Why don't we know? Did anyone know that Emil is wearing a boot? And if you did, do you know the back story or his condition currently or if he's improving or when he's projected to be able to play? Days? Weeks? Never? Anything?

Where's Todd? For years he was a regular poster who regularly filled in the blanks about things like this without violating any rules. Now the only time he says anything about Valpo basketball is 15 minutes before game time. Where's Brandon? He's another guy who no longer adds any value to the board. Do we even have a Post Tribune reporter anymore? What happened to our conduit???

This is a good point, wh. I attended a meeting with VU admissions administrators this week to discuss strategies for outreach to crucial communities, especially those already engaged with Valparaiso University in various ways, for recruiting prospective students. A priority is placed upon personal interaction whenever possible to enhance community relations. I would imagine this applies here as well. The members on this board are as engaged, supportive, and loyal to the university as any group. Though I wouldn't want the coaches or players involved on the board, I don't understand why a couple representatives of Athletics do not participate a bit more, at the very least to build goodwill with those here who are potential donors. As you note, MLB and Brandon have contributed in the past, as has Todd. However, in recent weeks with basketball season approaching, I have seen nothing here. A brief occasional update would probably suffice. Considering the unusual circumstances with Covid and the limitations on personal connections nowadays, I would think the possibility of communication with avid fans and donors on this board would be an even more valuable asset.   

I should have mentioned that this has nothing to do with Paul Oren. In fact, as everyone else has slacked off, Paul has elevated his coverage of Valpo basketball, as well as his presence on the board. He is all over transfer in stories, podcasts with players and former players, group Skype interviews ripe for disaster pulled off without a hitch, connections to other program's best reporters. He is at the top of his game, best-of-the-best. I'm also guessing (hopefully I'm wrong) that he's drastically underpaid for his efforts, yet he just keeps giving.

Quote from: valpopal on October 15, 2021, 11:25:59 AM

Quote from: wh on October 15, 2021, 10:40:22 AM
As engaged and plugged in to Valpo basketball as we all are, it never ceases to amaze me what a weak connection there is between the team and the fans when it comes knowing important facts. Why  should there be confusion around when what may well be our star player is going to be eligible to play? They obviously know. Why don't we know? Did anyone know that Emil is wearing a boot? And if you did, do you know the back story or his condition currently or if he's improving or when he's projected to be able to play? Days? Weeks? Never? Anything?

Where's Todd? For years he was a regular poster who regularly filled in the blanks about things like this without violating any rules. Now the only time he says anything about Valpo basketball is 15 minutes before game time. Where's Brandon? He's another guy who no longer adds any value to the board. Do we even have a Post Tribune reporter anymore? What happened to our conduit???

This is a good point, wh. I attended a meeting with VU admissions administrators this week to discuss strategies for outreach to crucial communities, especially those already engaged with Valparaiso University in various ways, for recruiting prospective students. A priority is placed upon personal interaction whenever possible to enhance community relations. I would imagine this applies here as well. The members on this board are as engaged, supportive, and loyal to the university as any group. Though I wouldn't want the coaches or players involved on the board, I don't understand why a couple representatives of Athletics do not participate a bit more, at the very least to build goodwill with those here who are potential donors. As you note, MLB and Brandon have contributed in the past, as has Todd. However, in recent weeks with basketball season approaching, I have seen nothing here. A brief occasional update would probably suffice. Considering the unusual circumstances with Covid and the limitations on personal connections nowadays, I would think the possibility of communication with avid fans and donors on this board would be an even more valuable asset.   

Fair points all around. When you all and other members of our fan base ask for and desire more coverage and content, that is certainly a good thing and helps me in advocating for more coverage both internally (content produced by Valpo Athletics) and externally (media coverage). Last year, one bright spot of the unfortunate circumstances of our fall seasons being cancelled is that it gave me more time to produce stories on each member of the basketball program and focus on content building into basketball season during the fall. Obviously, this year we're back to normal so we have to keep up with coverage of our fall sports, and Aaron & I do a lot that happens behind the scenes that goes beyond maintaining our website. Another factor at play is the changing newspaper landscape. In years past, much of the coverage you desire would come from the local newspapers, but newspapers across the country are facing budget and resource challenges. They have decreased staffing and decreased space in the papers. That is not a reflection on the quality of the editors and reporters who work in the area -- we're lucky to have great people working at The Times and Post-Tribune. All of you know what an incredible job Paul does and he is a huge advocate for Valpo Athletics coverage. And his full-time job is teaching classes, he is a freelance reporter for the newspaper. We're also so lucky to have a strong ambassador for Valpo in Todd Ickow, who has added some women's soccer and volleyball play-by-play on ESPN3/+ to his workload that already includes home & road football in the fall.

As far as Kobe, I believe he will miss the first nine regular-season games as stated in Paul's story. His is a very unique eligibility situation and our compliance office did a great job in helping making sure he will be eligible to play despite having signed with an agent previously. His eligibility is not connected to the completion of the first semester or the start of the second semester. Matt and the other MVC head coaches will be on a media day zoom call next Wednesday, Oct. 20, and I'm sure Matt will be asked many of your other questions at that time.

I'll also say that I think the Valpo fan base, campus and community will love this team. It's a very mature, likeable group between the veteran transfers who have joined the program and the returning players. The players are very engaged across campus and within the athletic department. For example, Thomas Kithier works for me in media relations and also in our ticket office and has done an excellent job for us. He'll be one of our marquee players, and having one of our marquee players in men's basketball working on campus, getting to know support staff and supporting our other sports sets the tone for the whole team and athletic department. I think our fans will find this group relatable and likable.

I try to follow along on the message board, but feel free to email me at brandon.vickrey@valpo.edu with any suggestions or questions going forward.

Finally the mature talented team we have yearned for since joining the MVC! These qualities will be essential if we are to compete in this conference! Even despite the very tough landscape given the talent on other rosters I think this might finally be the year we break through and make our mark. If not this year then certainly next year! I've been hoping for this for a long time and am getting excited! The adjustment period is (or should be) over. It's time to start pulling our weight in this conference and I believe we are on our way to doing that! Go Valpo!

Quote from: Brandon on October 15, 2021, 01:22:11 PM
As far as Kobe, I believe he will miss the first nine regular-season games as stated in Paul's story. His is a very unique eligibility situation and our compliance office did a great job in helping making sure he will be eligible to play despite having signed with an agent previously. His eligibility is not connected to the completion of the first semester or the start of the second semester.

Thanks, Brandon! Assuming exhibition games do not count as "regular season," it appears Kobe would be eligible for the Dec. 7 home game against East-West University, which means he would miss only one conference game. Also, this contest would be a good opportunity to get him into the flow of action with his teammates. I appreciate the update, and I look forward to more such info from you as the season progresses.

Thank you Brandon for your normal, complete and well written response.  I have always admired the writings of both Aaron and Brandon and certainly hope they are well compensated and decide to stay around.  It has already been an exciting fall (and certainly hope football begins to live up to the pre-season expectations) and hope our basketball teams put us "on the map"!

I will look to post more frequently in upcoming weeks. For a full preview on every Beacon player listen to the latest episode of Union Street Hoops. Looking forward to an extremely exciting season.

I have some thoughts on all of this, but I'm exhausted after two volleyball matches last night and a football game tonight. Three more volleyball matches tomorrow, two Chicago/Boston marathon stories coming as well as a VUWSO feature. Trust me, I want nothing more than to shift all of my focus to Beacon Basketball, but with no full-time reporters at The Times, there's a ton on my plate right now. The answers WE all seek are coming soon. Ever since March 2020, I've yearned for a return to normalcy. While it hasn't all come at once, I do know that basketball at the ARC with fans is going to be a big part of moving forward.

Quote from: Pgmado on October 16, 2021, 12:37:47 AMI have some thoughts on all of this, but I'm exhausted after two volleyball matches last night and a football game tonight. Three more volleyball matches tomorrow, two Chicago/Boston marathon stories coming as well as a VUWSO feature. Trust me, I want nothing more than to shift all of my focus to Beacon Basketball, but with no full-time reporters at The Times, there's a ton on my plate right now. The answers WE all seek are coming soon. Ever since March 2020, I've yearned for a return to normalcy. While it hasn't all come at once, I do know that basketball at the ARC with fans is going to be a big part of moving forward.

Bless you and thank you for all that you do!

The opening exhibition game against Ashland on Oct. 30 will get a promotional boost by being featured as a part of the inauguration festivities honoring Pres. Padilla on that day. The inauguration takes place at 2:30, a reception follows at 4, and the game is scheduled for 6. Consequently, attendance should be enhanced beyond what is normally seen for an early exhibition contest. Also, Valpo sports will be part of the kickoff for Inauguration Week with an alumni lecture by Lloyd McClendon on October 24. You can view the full Inauguration Week schedule of events at the following:
https://www.valpo.edu/president/presidential-inauguration/ (https://www.valpo.edu/president/presidential-inauguration/)

Quote from: valpopal on October 16, 2021, 10:08:05 AM
The opening exhibition game against Ashland on Oct. 30 will get a promotional boost by being featured as a part of the inauguration festivities honoring Pres. Padilla on that day. The inauguration takes place at 2:30, a reception follows at 4, and the game is scheduled for 6. Consequently, attendance should be enhanced beyond what is normally seen for an early exhibition contest. Also, Valpo sports will be part of the kickoff for Inauguration Week with an alumni lecture by Lloyd McClendon on October 24. You can view the full Inauguration Week schedule of events at the following:
https://www.valpo.edu/president/presidential-inauguration/ (https://www.valpo.edu/president/presidential-inauguration/)

Thanks for posting this.  I hope some of these things will end up on YouTube, at least the inauguration ceremony itself.

Great Union Street Hoops episode with Todd giving us his preseason ideas.

So we have a starting lineup of Krikke, Anderson, Taylor, Sheldon and Kithier, with King (when eligible) being the 6th man and first replacement for most any injury. Then we've got rotation players in Eron, Hedstrom, Connor and Darius for a 10 player total rotation.  He think a couple of freshman might and that's a big MIGHT redshirt.

We have so much depth that the redshirt option makes sense but does it really at the mid-major level?  No playing time? Transfer.  Or, is the program at a level (certainly not recently) where guys will wait their turn?

Todd was especially high on Taylor and Kithier which should really help Ben and Sheldon and of course, King is the total wildcard and maybe the overall star by the end of the season.  Can't wait!

The first 2022 Pomeroy ratings are out today. Valparaiso sits at a disappointing 236, and it appears to be 10th in the MVC! I expect to see that ranking rise as the season progresses: https://kenpom.com/ (https://kenpom.com/)

Now that we have Todd's evaluation and projected starting five, let's take a look at last year versus this year.

S I looked at the second Loyola game, which we almost won, and looked at that starting lineup.

Clay
McMillan
Krikke
Gordon
Edwards

That would matchup versus:

Taylor
Kithier
Krikke
Anderson
Edwards

So we have two starters back and assume they will be better than last year.  Then we have Kithier versus McMillan at the five, Anderson versus Gordon at the 1 and Taylor versus Clay at the 3.
Clay scored 5 points in that game, Gordon had 2 and McMillan had 2.  You get the picture... ::)

Quote from: vu72 on October 17, 2021, 12:46:44 PM
Now that we have Todd's evaluation and projected starting five, let's take a look at last year versus this year.

S I looked at the second Loyola game, which we almost won, and looked at that starting lineup.

Clay
McMillan
Krikke
Gordon
Edwards

That would matchup versus:

Taylor
Kithier
Krikke
Anderson
Edwards

So we have two starters back and assume they will be better than last year.  Then we have Kithier versus McMillan at the five, Anderson versus Gordon at the 1 and Taylor versus Clay at the 3.
Clay scored 5 points in that game, Gordon had 2 and McMillan had 2.  You get the picture... ::)

On paper, this year's roster is much better in every respect. High major players that played and contributed at that level, experience, self-discipline, maturity, team-orientation, depth, quality returning players, etc. we've also ridded ourself of a player who used COVID as an excuse to add 50 lbs of fat, another who used COVID as an excuse to become a part time player, a totally selfish player who refused to play inside, and a freshman crybaby. Complete drama queens - all 4.

I've looked at what every team is bringing to the table this year. Including Valpo, there are 4 teams that unquestionably will be better than last year. Loyola is not 1 of them, contrary to what old guard prognosticators say. Of the 4 Valpo has clearly made the biggest step up. Is it enough to overcome last year's deficit? We'll see.

When Valpo shows up 7th in the upcoming pre-season team rankings announcement, that will be proof positive that most voters don't do their homework. That said, it's up to Matt and this team to perform at a higher level to where they can't be ignored.

To me, preseason ranking are meaningless, and merely a guess as to who will step up this year. Since no one has seen our guys play yet, including us, I don't care (much) that we are last.  If the team is underestimated, even if it is just mentally by the players, that could translate to extra points on the floor.    Let's face it, you completely step up your game and mindset when you play #1. You usually don't when you play #10. 

Let's surprise the world!!  Go Valpo!!

https://twitter.com/ValpoBasketball/status/1448747437582077956?s=20


https://twitter.com/sheldonnn13/status/1448488934686736385?s=20

Should I just forward Keyondre Young's name to the portal people now and get it over with?

Quote from: JD24 on October 17, 2021, 11:33:01 PM
Should I just forward Keyondre Young's name to the portal people now and get it over with?

I'm glad I'm not the only one concerned by Todd's remarks on the podcast. On one hand, I understand there's a lot of depth at his position and he's only a freshman, yet if he was good enough to lead the 2nd team in scoring in a simulated game with refs, it doesn't seem to make sense that he couldn't compete for playing time. On the other hand, we have 6 years of players on the same team, which is a ridiculous age and experience spread to deal with. I guess my thought is if the staff is concerned that he might not get the playing time he deserves due to this odd ball situation, they should let him decide if he wants to redshirt. He could be ok with that, knowing he would have a year to bulk and the possibility of 4 great years ahead. If he wants to play, let him play and figure out how to get him playing time. Nobody said talent coming out of your ears was going to be easy to deal with.

BTW, I watched several of his games last year, including all of his tournament games. He dominated against top notch competition with all star players. He started the season ranked something like 10th, and blew everyone ahead of him away. You don't bring a player of his quality all the way up here from Oklahoma and have him sit at the end of the bench.

Quote from: wh on October 13, 2021, 10:20:25 PM

Quote from: wh on October 08, 2021, 05:12:24 PM
Received this email:


Season Ticket Holder Open Practice Event
Athletics-Recreation Center
Wednesday
October 13th - 5:30 PM
Valpo Athletics is thrilled to have you, our loyal, enthusiastic, and loud fans back in the stands this season.  The ARC was not the same without you.  As we look forward to what promises to be an exciting non-conference slate and a demanding Missouri Valley Conference season your support means more than ever. 
We want to provide you the opportunity to become reacquainted with your favorite players and be introduced to this year's new members.  You are cordially invited to the annual Season Ticket Holder Open Practice event on October 13th beginning at 5:30 PM. 
You will be able to catch a glimpse of both our women's and men's basketball teams followed by introductions and words from Matt Lottich and Mary Evans.  Tickets, parking and hospitality passes will be available for pick up. 
As a thank you for supporting the teams we will have exclusive shirts for our Season Ticket Holders.  These shirts will be distributed at a special Season Ticket Holder game during the season.  The Open Practice will be your opportunity to put in your size request.  If you cannot attend, your tickets/passes will be placed in the mail and a ticket office representative will follow up for your t-shirt size(s).
Thank you again for your continued support and your commitment to Valpo Basketball.

Go Beacons!

If you still need to renew your tickets please contact the Valpo Ticket Office at 219-464-5233.

I was not able to attend the open practice event this evening. Did anyone else attend? What were your impressions? Paul, I know you must have gone. Chairback? Anyone?

In addition to what HUMBLEOPINION said, there were words said by Mark LaBarbera, Mary Evans and Matt Lottich.  This was followed by the team introductions, where each member introduced themselves.  However, most of what they all said was unintelligible (except for Mark & Matt because they both talked loudly) because of the crummy PA system. 

Quote from: valpopal on October 17, 2021, 11:08:59 AM
The first 2022 Pomeroy ratings are out today. Valparaiso sits at a disappointing 236, and it appears to be 10th in the MVC! I expect to see that ranking rise as the season progresses: https://kenpom.com/ (https://kenpom.com/)

I love this! Last in the Valley and below dozens of LOW major teams. Someone pin this on the locker room bulletin board and above every urinal ASAP. lol

Quote from: wh on October 18, 2021, 05:43:02 PM

Quote from: valpopal on October 17, 2021, 11:08:59 AMThe first 2022 Pomeroy ratings are out today. Valparaiso sits at a disappointing 236, and it appears to be 10th in the MVC! I expect to see that ranking rise as the season progresses: https://kenpom.com/ (https://kenpom.com/)

I love this! Last in the Valley and below dozens of LOW major teams. Someone pin this on the locker room bulletin board and above every urinal ASAP. lol

Yeah we should be significantly better than that. If not, fire Lottich without any hesitation.

Quote from: wh on October 17, 2021, 03:14:49 PM

Quote from: vu72 on October 17, 2021, 12:46:44 PMNow that we have Todd's evaluation and projected starting five, let's take a look at last year versus this year. S I looked at the second Loyola game, which we almost won, and looked at that starting lineup. Clay McMillan Krikke Gordon Edwards That would matchup versus: Taylor Kithier Krikke Anderson Edwards So we have two starters back and assume they will be better than last year.  Then we have Kithier versus McMillan at the five, Anderson versus Gordon at the 1 and Taylor versus Clay at the 3. Clay scored 5 points in that game, Gordon had 2 and McMillan had 2.  You get the picture... ::)

On paper, this year's roster is much better in every respect. High major players that played and contributed at that level, experience, self-discipline, maturity, team-orientation, depth, quality returning players, etc. we've also ridded ourself of a player who used COVID as an excuse to add 50 lbs of fat, another who used COVID as an excuse to become a part time player, a totally selfish player who refused to play inside, and a freshman crybaby. Complete drama queens - all 4. I've looked at what every team is bringing to the table this year. Including Valpo, there are 4 teams that unquestionably will be better than last year. Loyola is not 1 of them, contrary to what old guard prognosticators say. Of the 4 Valpo has clearly made the biggest step up. Is it enough to overcome last year's deficit? We'll see.

I'm hoping Todd simply forgot about him and didn't mention him. Young should be the type of player who upgrades the roster over nearly every player on the roster.  He should be playing on any roster in the MVC. It's quite possible that some of the guys mentioned are overvalued.

Makes sense

MVC preseason poll places Valpo at 7th place but only 4 points ahead of 9th place Indiana State. This comes after Ken Pomeroy's preseason ranking puts Valpo in 10th place. Either outsiders are seeing something we aren't or they are just showing little respect based upon results in the past. I believe anything short of top-5 will be disappointing and unacceptable, though I hope for even better.
[tweet]1450824131574788101[/tweet]

SIU could be really good this year, with all five starters returning so I am hesitant to say falling behind them is a failure.  I am hopefully for a top five finish, but without seeing the team first hand, and how good the other teams turn out to be,  it is hard to gauge where we should realistic be. The non conference games should reveal a lot.  (But then again, Evansville  beat Kentucky and then goose egged the Valley.)   Looking forward to the season and cheering on this team.  One thing is for sure, I will do my part at the games I can attend.

I can see the predictors picking everybody a head of us except Bradley.  Heck, they lost Elijah Childs, who went pro, and two other starters, Nolan Jr and McAdoo to transfer.

7th in one poll, 10th in another, bottom quartile in D-1, the only team not mentioned in an "MVC preview" podcast. This is all based on negative program perception, nothing more substantive or analytical than that. If our name was Loyola or Drake, we would be ranked no lower than 3rd with the exact same roster. Pundits would be profiling past accomplishments of our D-1 Major transfers, drueling over our freshman recruiting class, our 3 Mr. Basketballs, on and on. I'm not suggesting that we should expect to be ranked higher. Credibility has to be earned, and we have earned very little since we made the jump. My point is these "wild guesses," completely polluted by recency bias, should be taken with a grain of salt.

Let's get the season underway already. I'm tired of wallowing in this useless, demoralizing, nonsense.

Quote from: wh on October 20, 2021, 10:30:05 AMLet's get the season underway already. I'm tired of wallowing in this useless, demoralizing, nonsense.

:thumbsup: By X-mas EVERYBODY will have torn up their MVC projections and will start over from scratch. Should be fun to watch!

To put it all in perspective, MSU was picked picked first in 2017-18 and 2019-20, yet they finished 7th and 6th.  These polls mean nothing.  No one knows what our team is going to look like.  I also think the top four teams' fan bases feel this is their year,  best rosters ever, etc.  I see a lot of disappointment this year.  Only one can be on top.

Called the ticket office to see if I could purchase another season ticket. I asked how ticket sales are going so far. It sounds like they're going ok, with some suspected COVID wariness on behalf of some. 

These rankings mean nothing.  They are garbage.  Even if we were ranked higher it's still garbage.

One thing about the MVC is anyone can beat anyone any given night.  Certainly when top teams play on the road. 

The quality of teams in the MVC this year is awesome and as fan you can really get excited about it.  Just think, we could be talking about the Horizon league still.

To me this season comes down to 1 thing, coaching.  We have really good players and we are going to play against tough teams. If we are prepared and coached well we will win.  If not, we will finish 7th. 

Quote from: bb33 on October 20, 2021, 10:25:44 AMSIU could be really good this year, with all five starters returning so I am hesitant to say falling behind them is a failure.  I am hopefully for a top five finish, but without seeing the team first hand, and how good the other teams turn out to be,  it is hard to gauge where we should realistic be. The non conference games should reveal a lot.  (But then again, Evansville  beat Kentucky and then goose egged the Valley.)   Looking forward to the season and cheering on this team.  One thing is for sure, I will do my part at the games I can attend.

I don't put a lot of stock in that Evansville argument. That entire program got thrown into chaos shortly after that Kentucky win. That was the reason for the goose egg not the talent on the roster. Speaking of Evansville they are in a pretty similar boat to SIU. Lots of returning starters and production and much more stability under a good coach in Lickliter. I expect them to be pretty good. Probably somewhere in the 5-7 range with us and SIU but they will be solid and a tough matchup for whoever plays them. This should be a great year for Valley basketball. As always, no easy wins and every matchup is interesting. I do agree that Bradley is being a bit overrated but I think that is out of respect for what Wardle has accomplished recently. Wouldn't be surprised to see them a Thursday team though which shouldn't carry the stigma it usually does this year because of the quality of the league. There's going to be at least one team playing on Thursday that is going to be no fun for that top two seed to deal with on Friday.

Quote from: bb33 on October 20, 2021, 10:43:46 AMTo put it all in perspective, MSU was picked picked first in 2017-18 and 2019-20, yet they finished 7th and 6th.  These polls mean nothing.  No one knows what our team is going to look like.  I also think the top four teams' fan bases feel this is their year,  best rosters ever, etc.  I see a lot of disappointment this year.  Only one can be on top.

There won't be much disappointment if the MVC is pulling 2-3 bids and an NIT bid like many fans believe is possible for this league this year. The talent and depth in this league is insane. Like I said there is going to be at least one if not two Thursday teams that are going to end up being an absolute headache for the top seeds on Friday. This league is deep strong and good this year and only getting better! I love this league and this is an exciting time to be a fan of any MVC team!

Valparaiso's blending roster looks to climb Missouri Valley Conference ladder
Paul Oren, Aaron Ferguson
Oct 20, 2021

https://www.nwitimes.com/sports/college/valparaiso-university/valparaisos-blending-roster-looks-to-climb-missouri-valley-conference-ladder/article_fc861e68-c83c-55a6-bac0-b8028ef62798.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1

Quote from: wh on October 21, 2021, 06:03:39 AM
Valparaiso's blending roster looks to climb Missouri Valley Conference ladder
Paul Oren, Aaron Ferguson
Oct 20, 2021

https://www.nwitimes.com/sports/college/valparaiso-university/valparaisos-blending-roster-looks-to-climb-missouri-valley-conference-ladder/article_fc861e68-c83c-55a6-bac0-b8028ef62798.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1

You gotta love all that Matt said.

The roster we have cobbled together looks very promising with the mix of vets and Frosh. 3-5 finish is not out of the question. Lottich says the right stuff but the proof is in the pudding with wins and losses.

Okay so just so we're clear we're no longer a "young team" anymore right Matt? That excuse is gone this year right? Good Then I don't want to hear it in a single postgame press conference. I just hope we can actually score consistently for the first time in years. No more flat starts and long droughts and having to fight back from 15 down.

My question is what will be Matt's basis for awarding minutes. For me he has always been more offense minded and a result his lost players because he hasn't held everyone to same standard. All these players were the top  1 or. 2 players on there high school teams and scored. At the college level, it should be about defense first. That is a simple and straight forward metric to have. If he ever instills that in his players, he may have something, if not I don't think he will ever have the success that we are hoping for.

Slim looking good in Valpo gold. I like those uniforms!

https://twitter.com/CoachHatchett/status/1451394195583815701?s=20

I'm going to show my expectations with the following statement.... 

Zion Morgan was a fairly large part of our team last year and we finished 5th.    Love the hustle/determination from Zion, but he was not an MVC player.   He was might not have been a Horizon league player.   

My biggest worry is we are going to have some very good basketball players that don't get to play much or at all.   We are not the only team with this problem though.  Talent is stacked accross the country because of the extra COVID year.    We are not alone in that problem.   So on average, all of college basketball is going to be a better product this year, not just us.   Communication is going to have to be strong to keep players happy.   

I think we are really going to find out how good a coach Lottich is this year.

Quote from: usc4valpo on October 22, 2021, 10:12:57 AMI think we are really going to find out how good a coach Lottich is this year.

If he can't make it work with this group I think he needs to go. We can't let him go through another cycle of recruits if we continue to be mediocre these next couple years. We would need to find a new leader to hopefully bring the program up to where it needs to be at or near the top of the MVC year in year out.

Quote from: SanityLost17 on October 22, 2021, 09:12:51 AM
I'm going to show my expectations with the following statement.... 

Zion Morgan was a fairly large part of our team last year and we finished 5th.    Love the hustle/determination from Zion, but he was not an MVC player.   He was might not have been a Horizon league player.   

My biggest worry is we are going to have some very good basketball players that don't get to play much or at all.   We are not the only team with this problem though.  Talent is stacked accross the country because of the extra COVID year.    We are not alone in that problem.   So on average, all of college basketball is going to be a better product this year, not just us.   Communication is going to have to be strong to keep players happy.   

You make a number of important points. Let me build on one, if I may - "all of college bb is going to be a better product this year." Most teams in the MVC are returning better 5th year players than we are. In fact, 2 or 3 teams are absolutely stacked because of it. What Matt has done to offset that advantage is bring in a better core of players through the portal than anyone else, hands down. He also recruited the best freshman class, hands down. In fact, it's even better than anyone thought now that we know how impressive Darius is. In the short term, out recruiting the league has helped us to pass the weaker programs and move much closer to the quality level of the top 3 or 4 teams. In the longer term, some of this year's loaded teams are going to be next year's also-runs, whereas we have a strong possibility of having a stacked lineup. Theoretically, and optimistically, we could be in the driver's seat in the MVC next year. Once we turn the corner, anything can happen from there. We went from rags to owning the Mid Con. We went from rags to owning the Horizon League. We have a success story that extends over decades. Only a fool would think we can't do it again - with or without facilities, with or without the Drew's.

I'm sure this has been posted so sorry for asking this question again, does Kobe King have eligibility for next year too or just this season?

Quote from: Chairback on October 22, 2021, 03:17:27 PM
I'm sure this has been posted so sorry for asking this question again, does Kobe King have eligibility for next year too or just this season?

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.nwitimes.com/sports/college/valparaiso-university/valparaiso-lands-former-wisconsin-starter-kobe-king-who-received-ncaa-waiver-to-play/article_9edf1b23-ef67-5202-9dc9-9bad53686b52.amp.html

"King believes that he'll have to miss "nine or 10 games" at the start of the 2021-22 season and that he'll also have a medical redshirt year to use following a knee injury that cut his freshman season short in 2017-18. All told, King should have two years of eligibility for Valparaiso."

how good is Darius Deaveiro? old freshman but canada international?

exp with FIBA could be big.

Quote from: Corohan2 on October 24, 2021, 05:35:49 AM
how good is Darius Deaveiro? old freshman but canada international?

exp with FIBA could be big.

I don't think anyone knows, but the fact that Matt singled him out for praise in last week's press conference has me highly curious. I rewatched one of his videos from 2 years ago. His court awareness and passing skills were well beyond anything you would expect to see at that level. His teammates had better keep their heads on a swivel, especially our bigger, less athletic (dare I say white) players.

In this defensive-minded league, everyone will be looking for tendencies and weaknesses to exploit. If he can't shoot the 3 at the 30% level minimum, teams will slough way off and clog up the middle. That stops penetration and clogs up the passing lanes. Last year they dared Daniel Sackey to take wide open 3's, which rendered him pretty ineffective at times, and resulted in some painfully long dry spells. Another guy in that same quandary was Donovan Clay.

Quote from: wh on October 24, 2021, 09:59:00 AM

Quote from: Corohan2 on October 24, 2021, 05:35:49 AMhow good is Darius Deaveiro? old freshman but canada international? exp with FIBA could be big.

I don't think anyone knows, but the fact that Matt singled him out for praise in last week's press conference has me highly curious. I rewatched one of his videos from 2 years ago. His court awareness and passing skills were well beyond anything you would expect to see at that level. His teammates had better keep their heads on a swivel, especially our bigger, less athletic (dare I say white) players. In this defensive-minded league, everyone will be looking for tendencies and weaknesses to exploit. If he can't shoot the 3 at the 30% level minimum, teams will sluff way off and clog up the middle. That stops penetration and clogs up the passing lanes. Last year they dared Daniel Sackey to take wide open 3's, which rendered him pretty ineffective at times, and resulted in some painfully long dry spells. Another guy in that same quandary was Donovan Clay.

Not to overly pick on the guy but Sackey also didn't do what he was supposed to do well which was direct the team in a competent manner. He was playing at 100 mph when unnecessary. If Darius has trouble shooting but can direct the team without allowing the opponent to go on a 10 point run because of a series of mistakes by the PG, he'll be an asset.

Quote from: JD24 on October 24, 2021, 02:10:02 PM

Quote from: wh on October 24, 2021, 09:59:00 AM

Quote from: Corohan2 on October 24, 2021, 05:35:49 AMhow good is Darius Deaveiro? old freshman but canada international? exp with FIBA could be big.

I don't think anyone knows, but the fact that Matt singled him out for praise in last week's press conference has me highly curious. I rewatched one of his videos from 2 years ago. His court awareness and passing skills were well beyond anything you would expect to see at that level. His teammates had better keep their heads on a swivel, especially our bigger, less athletic (dare I say white) players. In this defensive-minded league, everyone will be looking for tendencies and weaknesses to exploit. If he can't shoot the 3 at the 30% level minimum, teams will sluff way off and clog up the middle. That stops penetration and clogs up the passing lanes. Last year they dared Daniel Sackey to take wide open 3's, which rendered him pretty ineffective at times, and resulted in some painfully long dry spells. Another guy in that same quandary was Donovan Clay.

Not to overly pick on the guy but Sackey also didn't do what he was supposed to do well which was direct the team in a competent manner. He was playing at 100 mph when unnecessary. If Darius has trouble shooting but can direct the team without allowing the opponent to go on a 10 point run because of a series of mistakes by the PG, he'll be an asset.

[/b]

This, from his bio:  (I don't think he will have trouble shooting!)

Member of the 2015-2016 Canada Basketball Junior Academy... Averaged 7.2 points and 5.4 assists while shooting 41.9 percent from the 3-point line for Orangeville Prep last season...

Valpo vs Stanford will be on the PAC 12 network. I wonder who will provide commentary for that game.

DAVID DEAVEIRO READY TO WRITE THE NEXT CHAPTER OF RYERSON MEN'S BASKETBALL

https://theeyeopener.com/2020/09/david-deaveiro-ready-to-write-the-next-chapter-of-ryerson-mens-basketball/

Darius' dad is a highly successful coach and sounds even more impressive personally.

This would actually be a pretty good idea for Valpo Basketball to try out. Engaging Greek Life is important.

Maybe host an outdoor cookout for the Fraternity/Sororities at the outdoor basketball courts near the old law school and have the Greeks challenge the Basketball Team to a game of PIG or Horse. They can meet the team and socialize outdoors (low covid transmission possibility).

https://twitter.com/ou_mbball/status/1452718005151019008?s=21

The most significant way to build enthusiasm around the team/program is to win, but beyond that it is hundreds of little things like the great suggestion made by VU2014.

He is so excited about this opportunity at OU you can't help but wish him the best.  We need that excitement at Valpo.  It starts with each of us.  Excitement feeds excitement.

First Basketball weekly!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DLxKuxADkoc

Matt seems excited. He knows the strenghts of the transers, returnees, and freshmen. He selected very good Div 2 teams for the exhibition, which is better than the usual Div. 2 creampuffs. Good sign in getting the team ready for stiffer competition.

He sounds like a good coach.

But will his coaching match his words?

He should be ready now to demonstrate his coaching skills and should do very well given the talent of the team and their excitement to play here.

Show us big guy. Winning will bring fans into the ARC. The same-old-same-old every year won't cut it this year.

Hope you can be successful. I might actually buy a ticket or two if things start cracking.

Quote from: usc4valpo on October 24, 2021, 07:57:30 PM
Valpo vs Stanford will be on the PAC 12 network. I wonder who will provide commentary for that game.

As long as I neither see his face or hear his voice and opinions I will be fine with whoever you are thinking about.

https://twitter.com/FatherHarry1/status/1453053593620303880?s=20

I feel sorry for Sheldon, Matt, and others excited about the team's prospects. Apparently, they didn't listen to the MVC podcast prognosticators, who confidently place Valpo's CEILING at 6th; their floor at 10th. I believe that rounds to about an 8th place finish.

Quote from: justducky on October 26, 2021, 06:32:55 PM

Quote from: usc4valpo on October 24, 2021, 07:57:30 PM
Valpo vs Stanford will be on the PAC 12 network. I wonder who will provide commentary for that game.

As long as I neither see his face or hear his voice and opinions I will be fine with whoever you are thinking about.

If you are worried about it being Bill Walton, I understand you points. However, for everything that is annoying about Walton he is great at detailing many positives about non-conference Pac-12 opponents (the programs and the universities). Walton doing color would have some marketing benefit for Valpo.

Quote from: wh on October 27, 2021, 12:51:43 PM
https://twitter.com/FatherHarry1/status/1453053593620303880?s=20

I feel sorry for Sheldon, Matt, and others excited about the team's prospects. Apparently, they didn't listen to the MVC podcast prognosticators, who confidently place Valpo's CEILING at 6th; their floor at 10th. I believe that rounds to about an 8th place finish.

Their ceiling didn't bother me because they know absolutely nothing about our team.  Sometimes it's better to play with a chip on your shoulder, or to take teams who are mentally unprepared.

TBH, I would be thrilled with 5th, but hoping for the greatest upset season of all time.  Saturday can't come soon enough.

Can't wait for Saturday's game to get a little view of what to expect this year. So many possibilities.

Seems we will have to contend with some changes to get to the North parking lots along La Porte Ave as they made the area along the lots One Way.

https://twitter.com/AlBillets/status/1453448597966622726

Unfortunately we will learn nothing from either exhibition really. Non D1s teach us nothing about our team's or any team's chances.

Quote from: VUGrad1314 on October 27, 2021, 03:40:18 PM
Unfortunately we will learn nothing from either exhibition really. Non D1s teach us nothing about our team's or any team's chances.

Perhaps but remember that these two teams are scholarship D2's and Flagler is ranked #2 nationally in the opening poll.  They beat 2 D1's last year.  That should be a very good team.

https://flaglerathletics.com/news/2021/10/27/MBB_1027_NABC.aspx

Flagler returns four starters from last year's 18-3 club, who finished ranked No. 8. All-American guard Jaizec Lottie will look to once again lead the charges with fellow backcourt teammate, and all-conference guard, Derrick Ellis, Jr. A pair of all-conference forwards, Chris Metzger and Jalen Barr are back. Barr received PBC Defender of the Year honors.

Quote from: vu84v2 on October 27, 2021, 12:59:47 PM

Quote from: justducky on October 26, 2021, 06:32:55 PM

Quote from: usc4valpo on October 24, 2021, 07:57:30 PMValpo vs Stanford will be on the PAC 12 network. I wonder who will provide commentary for that game.

As long as I neither see his face or hear his voice and opinions I will be fine with whoever you are thinking about.

If you are worried about it being Bill Walton, I understand you points. However, for everything that is annoying about Walton he is great at detailing many positives about non-conference Pac-12 opponents (the programs and the universities). Walton doing color would have some marketing benefit for Valpo.

Assuming Walton is doing a game that day, #2 UCLA is also playing and I'd bet he's on that game.

Quote from: VUGrad1314 on October 27, 2021, 03:40:18 PM
Unfortunately we will learn nothing from either exhibition really. Non D1s teach us nothing about our team's or any team's chances.

These are good Div2 teams. We got beat by a good Div2 team the same year of the Sweet 16. That particular game taught us that without Bryce Drew, we couldn't beat a Div2 team.

[tweet]1453408374515720195[/tweet]
Festivities Saturday evening to initiate basketball season will include a "Costume Contest." Perhaps this could also serve as a mascot audition, since none has been revealed yet. Also, I wonder if any student will participate in the contest dressed as a Crusader.

We Are Deacons

Out of curiosity to MSUs perspective on the conference talk, I got sucked into their message board.  They are a bunch or arrogant SOBs, and I am not quite sure why.   Think they are too good for the Valley, and putting other teams down.  I went on Loyola (who of anyone has a right to be arrogant) who have their heads on straight.  Very classy and not judgmental.

It was an interesting read.  But now I really want to beat MSU, even more than before.  I hope everyone gives them a ride for their money, especially the ISUs. The fans heads will start spinning.

Can Kobe play in the exhibition games? 

MVC Fans have voted us 8th. Even with all the new faces and worrying about the team jelling together in the early part of the season I feel that that is far too low. Can't wait to see the team surprise a lot of people and finish at least in the top 6. Go Valpo!

Quote from: VUGrad1314 on October 28, 2021, 12:46:05 PM
MVC Fans have voted us 8th. Even with all the new faces and worrying about the team jelling together in the early part of the season I feel that that is far too low. Can't wait to see the team surprise a lot of people and finish at least in the top 6. Go Valpo!

C'Mon Man!!!! didn't you do your over/unders.....
Top 5!!!!! ;)

East West University... if you are asking yourself "Why?"... Here is some background on Tommie Posley, the Phantom's head coach.   
Obviously we are providing an opportunity for the institution and for the coach and players; but given the background... I think this is a pretty cool game to play.

In addition to basketball coach...Coach Posley has a few other things going on.
(https://sites.google.com/site/hhrcillinois/our-staff/tommy-l-posley) - which I have shared below...

Tommie L. Posley is a loving father of eight children, five girls and three sons (two sons now deceased). He was born in West Memphis, Arkansas where he was the oldest of four brothers. His childhood was that of a normal southern family with both parents working hard to provide the best possible for their children. His parents were always very stern about their son's growing to become productive gentlemen who respected life and all it has to offer.

His family relocated to Chicago, Illinois in the late 1960's where he first developed his love for the game of basketball. With his skills on the court as a teenager, he played for St. Michael's High School. As a young adult his basketball talents landed him a point guard position on a very popular, talented and often undefeated local basketball team named the "Windy's". Under the leadership of Coach Darryl Brazil who had zero tolerance for anything short of excellent sportsmanship and a winning attitude.

His love of basketball often found him in a mentorship roll for young men who shared his same passion. He quickly realized that he had become a mentor to a countless number of young men. Often these men were seeking guidance and a hands on approach to their life's short comings. This role had become a priority to "Coach Posley", as he is now known to everyone.

Tommie L. Posley is also a dedicated mentor for organization called "Youth as a Possibility". This was it, he had found his calling. His calling is to be a voice for young men across the City of Chicago, all the while still active with his love of basketball as a coach.

He has held coaching positions at: Dunbar High School, Manley High School, East West University, Sonny Parker Youth Foundation and now currently the Head Coach of the women's basketball team at Indiana, Dabney University.

Later he secured employment at the Cook County Jail as a Substance Abuse Counselor. He also joined their team of motivational speakers to troubled youth of this facility. By popular demand he was also a motivational speaker with audiences, including but not limited to: Cook County Jail, Chicago Public Schools and the Chicago Housing Authority.

His perseverance lead him to becoming a dedicated church member.  His countless missionary endeavors lead to his Ordination as a faithful servant as a Deacon. 

Amongst the many hats that Tommie Posley wears the most important role of all is his recent union to his wife Rhonda Marshall-Posley.

Tommie Posley is to be commended for his work habits and all that he gives of himself and his enormous heart.
==================

This is a 4-year old interview on WGN...This is not a typical Collegiate Head Coach interview...

https://wgnradio.com/sports/east-west-basketball-coach-tommie-posley-it-was-a-way-for-me-to-get-these-guys-off-the-street-and-keep-them-in-the-gym/

Great interview with Sheldon Edwards!  Lots of inside stuff on various players!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zJwaikQJiF4

This is fantastic.  I loved when they were talking about the preseason rankings and Sheldon says the team shrugged their heads but we will handle business. 

The start of the season can not come too soon. Excited to see what we have this year.

https://twitter.com/TLAPSportsFLA/status/1453787621793181702

Quote from: VUBBFan on October 29, 2021, 12:08:42 PM
The start of the season can not come too soon. Excited to see what we have this year.

https://twitter.com/TLAPSportsFLA/status/1453787621793181702

These video clips have the same 3 players working out together on their own time - Sheldon, Darius, and Keyondre. 3 guys that until sometime this summer were total strangers who lived worlds apart, yet already they appear to have formed a strong bond and feed off each other's love for and dedication to the game of basketball. I love it.

I'm my younger days, I used to go to the Y on weeknights to play pickup bb. You walk in and start shooting around. At some point, someone says hey you guys want to get a game going? The next thing you know you're in an intense game of bb with guys you may or may not know, who may or may not be good, doesn't matter. The next 2 hours (or whatever) are pure joy. No game on earth brings people together like bb. When it's played well, it's poetry in motion. Nothing like it IMHO.

Let the games begin!

Some of my fondest memories at Valpo were watching Rowdy's teams. He was such a special player  and is an even better person. I'm glad I got the chance to get to know him a little. Some of my fondest memories as a fan were watching the NIT team in 2016. A well-oiled machine that I am confident would have made the Sweet 16 if not deeper had they gotten in. Watching Florida State (who I like to remind people every chance I get we are 2-0 all time against) and St Mary's legitimately tremble in fear before Vashil in the paint was so much fun and brought me such joy! That was truly a special team. Two things I wish I could have seen were Rowdy and Alec Peters playing together and a one-off scrimmage match of the 1998 team Vs the 2016 team with all players assuming the form and skills of their respective seasons. That game would have been EPIC! And I know it sounds crazy because the 1998 team would have had the best player on the floor but I really think the 2016 team might very well win that matchup if it were to be played. That team would unquestionably be deeper which I think would prove to be the difference. Just a random musing. What do you all think? If the 98 team played the 16 team who wins and why?

I know I should move on from the Donovan stuff, but this promo interview cracked me up when he said, "Loyalty is important to me."

Just too funny hearing him say those words. If you want to transfer fine, but the inner conference transfer and not sitting out a year does bother me. No ill will (I hope Donovan has a success career, I really do), but I hope we beat Missouri State and he goes 1-6 behind the 3 point line in games against us.

https://twitter.com/msubearshoops/status/1454138886771249154?s=21

Quote from: VU2014 on October 30, 2021, 12:15:10 AM
I know I should move on from the Donovan stuff, but this promo interview cracked me up when he said, "Loyalty is important to me."

Just too funny hearing him say those words. If you want to transfer fine, but the inner conference transfer and not sitting out a year does bother me. No ill will (I hope Donovan has a success career, I really do), but I hope we beat Missouri State and he goes 1-6 behind the 3 point line in games against us.

https://twitter.com/msubearshoops/status/1454138886771249154?s=21

I wish Donovan the well, but regarding loyalty, he didn't say HE was loyal He wanted a team loyal to him.  Very self focused, just like he played.  I do not like the interconfertnce transfer, and the league should have been the one to have ramifications.  Matt couldn't be the one to stop it.

Selfish player, but good luck to him

I know preseason ratings are useless, but if anyone wants to see a bit more optimistic view, Sports Illustrated's rankings are out and show the MVC as the 10th best conference, Valpo is ranked #131, and VU is forecast to be 5th in the conference standings:
https://www.si.com/college/2021/11/02/ncaa-basketball-rankings-every-team-daily-cover (https://www.si.com/college/2021/11/02/ncaa-basketball-rankings-every-team-daily-cover)

Quote from: valpopal on November 02, 2021, 10:17:00 AM
I know preseason ratings are useless, but if anyone wants to see a bit more optimistic view, Sports Illustrated's rankings are out and show the MVC as the 10th best conference, Valpo is ranked #131, and VU is forecast to be 5th in the conference standings:
https://www.si.com/college/2021/11/02/ncaa-basketball-rankings-every-team-daily-cover (https://www.si.com/college/2021/11/02/ncaa-basketball-rankings-every-team-daily-cover)

QuoteOver at Valparaiso (No. 131), a quartet of names Big Ten fans may recognize (Wisconsin's Kobe King, Trevor Anderson and Joe Hedstrom; Michigan State's Thomas Kithier) will look to help push the newly renamed Beacons forward.

T-Rank Projections, Valpo168
https://barttorvik.com/?&begin=20201101&end=20210501&conlimit=All&year=2021&top=0&quad=5&rpi=#

Methodology for Preseason Projections

http://adamcwisports.blogspot.com/2015/09/t-rank-2016-preview-nuts-and-bolts.html

After looking at all the posts for the MVC Top Returners, and what value there is in returner group of players, I can see why we are picked to be 7th in the conference. The good thing is that we get the non-conference schedule to get our act together. If we had to play conference games right out of the gate, we would be at huge disadvantage to many of the top MVC teams. With talent we have this will be a huge test for Matt coaching ability. I hope he is up to the challenge. Hopefully, as a conference, the teams that have a lot returning players will get big non-conference wins. As for Valpo, hopefully, these two exhibition games will help us improve quickly to be more competitive in our non-conference schedule. I'm looking forward to see our improvement from Saturday's game.

Does anyone know anything about Connor's injury situation? I can't even recall what's wrong with him, so if someone could start there, I would appreciate it.

He was out with a shoulder injury and per paul's podcast he got hurt in practice so I don't know if it's a dislocation or just a bad bruise or wrench.

Purdue's football program showed more ball movement than Valpo's basketball team on Saturday.

No dislocation for Barrett. He'll probably be back soon, but not for tomorrow against Toledo

Quote from: VUSupport on November 08, 2021, 03:07:08 PM
No dislocation for Barrett. He'll probably be back soon, but not for tomorrow against Toledo

Thank you for the update. How about Ben tomorrow night?

Kobe King will be the difference maker this year. All the shooting and ball movement that recent teams have lacked is finally out there. Kobe's athleticism and ability to create offense is the missing puzzle piece to a very well constructed team.

I was watching this UNI-Vermont game and noticed that there was pretty much a lack of any crowd or student section. No energy in the building at all which I find surprising for a team with really high expectations, a history of recent success, a fairly enthusiastic fan base, and great facilities. I dig deeper and looked at the opening day attendance numbers across the Valley home teams. Valpo (2850) drew more than Drake, Northern Iowa, and Illinois State, while only barely trailing Loyola (2900, including 1400 students). Missouri State blew everybody else out of the water with over 4000. I'm really surprised, honestly. I would expect most Valley teams to draw over 3000 for their home openers, especially teams with title aspirations like Drake and Northern Iowa. I felt like 2850 for us was a little higher than I was expecting considering we lost 2 exhibitions to D-2 teams at home. I was expecting attendance numbers to be higher after not being able to attend games last year, but I guess not. I haven't looked at past valley attendance averages so I don't know if this is up or down compared to normal, but thought it was interesting. 

I'm fearful the numbers will not rise much further than that. Cases in Indiana are up 40% in the last week and too many people simply don't want to be inside with hundreds/thousands of other people. Attendance for college football games is down and that's sitting outside. I'm glad that there will be *some* fans and I hope that they bring tons of energy...just not going to put too much stock into numbers either way and hoping by next year we can be more of a "return to normal" ??

Quote from: VU0331 on November 11, 2021, 05:41:51 PM
Kobe King will be the difference maker this year. All the shooting and ball movement that recent teams have lacked is finally out there. Kobe's athleticism and ability to create offense is the missing puzzle piece to a very well constructed team.

IMO the biggest difference in the Toledo game was they had a go-to guy that took over down the stretch, and we didn't. There's times when you absolutely need to have that one player that can get to the hoop and score or get fouled. The last player we had like that was Javon Freeman-Liberty. I'm hoping Kobe becomes our new Javon.

Quote from: vok22 on November 11, 2021, 05:53:05 PM
I was watching this UNI-Vermont game and noticed that there was pretty much a lack of any crowd or student section. No energy in the building at all which I find surprising for a team with really high expectations, a history of recent success, a fairly enthusiastic fan base, and great facilities. I dig deeper and looked at the opening day attendance numbers across the Valley home teams. Valpo (2850) drew more than Drake, Northern Iowa, and Illinois State, while only barely trailing Loyola (2900, including 1400 students). Missouri State blew everybody else out of the water with over 4000. I'm really surprised, honestly. I would expect most Valley teams to draw over 3000 for their home openers, especially teams with title aspirations like Drake and Northern Iowa. I felt like 2850 for us was a little higher than I was expecting considering we lost 2 exhibitions to D-2 teams at home. I was expecting attendance numbers to be higher after not being able to attend games last year, but I guess not. I haven't looked at past valley attendance averages so I don't know if this is up or down compared to normal, but thought it was interesting. 

The bigger surprise is that UNI could go 1-5 for the month of November.
Re Valpo's home opener attendance, 2,850 was a larger crowd then Valpo's home opener in 2019 vs. Toledo (2,412).
Not since 2016 has Valpo had a larger crowd on opening day (3,560 Southern Utah).

I remember that Southern Utah game vividly because SU had some guy Randy O that scored 35 on us. Looking back at the box score I see we shot 4-18 from three, 37% overall, had an opposing player go for 35, and we still won by 14. Really gets me thinking about what wins games and the difference between our dominant teams from that era and now. They found ways to win even when they were having off shooting nights and they knew exactly what to do to win. They got to the free throw line 37 times that game and made 33 of them. They knew that if they weren't able to hit their shots that had to get some free throws and they did just that.

I was at the game Tues. No chance in hell there was 2850 there.

Quote from: NativeCheesehead on November 11, 2021, 09:18:36 PM
I was at the game Tues. No chance in hell there was 2850 there.

I thought the same thing.  I just assumed most people were on line for a nice cold beer!

Quote from: VALPO LI on November 12, 2021, 04:59:26 AM

Quote from: NativeCheesehead on November 11, 2021, 09:18:36 PM
I was at the game Tues. No chance in hell there was 2850 there.

I thought the same thing.  I just assumed most people were on line for a nice cold beer!

I was at the game as well, no chance in hell there were more than 2000 in that building. There might as well have been 200 people there, you could hear a pin drop. Not sure if it was the exhibition losses, it being a Tuesday game, or some combination of other factors, but that was the worst home crowd I've experienced in my time being a Valpo student/alum. Zero energy from the student section as well, but I'm sure we've beaten that drum to death by now. Really hope we start getting some wins so maybe some life can come back to the ARC.

Since we've played 9 "games" at this point 7 + 2 exhibitions, is Kobe King due back now?

No I don't believe the exhibitions count towards that number.

[tweet]1467878439919112199[/tweet]

Quote from: valpopal on December 06, 2021, 10:55:18 AM
[tweet]1467878439919112199[/tweet]

Keep winning on the road and with double digit scoring margins. NET will take care of itself.

The NET includes more components than just winning percentage. It takes into account game results, strength of schedule, game location, scoring margin, net offensive and defensive efficiency, and the quality of wins and losses.

#MVCHoops teams in the first NET Rankings: Pomery Rankings in Bold
25. Loyola-Chicago  28.
87. Drake  69.
128. Mo State  78.
135. Southern Illinois 135.
148. Indiana St  179.
215. Valpo  212.
240. Bradley 185.
246. UNI 129.
272. Illinois St 239.
280. Evansville 226.

Don't want to be negative because it seems like a lot of my post are just that.....

But those numbers seem more like the HL when we left, than the MVC that we joined....just saying. 

Quote from: oklahomamick on December 07, 2021, 02:47:26 PM
Don't want to be negative because it seems like a lot of my post are just that.....

But those numbers seem more like the HL when we left, than the MVC that we joined....just saying. 

Great, compare them to the HL now, and be appreciative that we left :)

Quote from: valpotx on December 07, 2021, 07:45:37 PM

Quote from: oklahomamick on December 07, 2021, 02:47:26 PM
Don't want to be negative because it seems like a lot of my post are just that.....

But those numbers seem more like the HL when we left, than the MVC that we joined....just saying. 

Great, compare them to the HL now, and be appreciative that we left :)

To your point:
• NET - MVC 12th  HL 28th
• Even with our bad start Valpo's NET is better than 8 of 12 HL teams
• The HL is the poster child for regressive  conference expansion. Compete against 11 teams instead of 9 for 1 tournament bid and split 1 tournament share 12 ways instead of 10.

Oh yeah, HL now is bad....no doubt.  Not comparable.  IUPUI, IPFW and Robert Morris are the additions since we left.  They are looking at Southern Indiana.  Very happy we are not part of that league anymore.  Well said WH good numbers too. 

But the current MVC not much better than what the HL currently was when we left was what I was saying.  Then obviously the peak of the HL when Butler, Milwaukee, Detroit, Cleveland St. were all very good and making NCAAT bids/runs. 

I was told on Wednesday that the university would be announcing a new policy requiring masks at all times on campus, including the December graduations and sporting events, at least through January, and here is the notice:


[tweet]1471668606819782659[/tweet]

Good. Omicron is likely to be a factor for all of the teams during the conference season.  Anything that can help keep our players on the floor and fans in the stands is welcome.

Quote from: humbleopinion on December 17, 2021, 09:05:02 AM
Good. Omicron is likely to be a factor for all of the teams during the conference season.  Anything that can help keep our players on the floor and fans in the stands is welcome.

While I agree with this move, this will be very difficult to enforce. I have been to sporting events with 1,000 people in venues with similar policies and there are usually about 5% who don't follow the policy. You can't really go around and tell them to follow the policy or leave (you could, but it would just not create a very good vibe). Here's to hoping that the vast majority of people respect the policy and that the people who set it did so with the best of intent.

Quote from: vu84v2 on December 17, 2021, 12:39:02 PMand that the people who set it did so with the best of intent.

What?  What kind of "intent"  other than the best might you be inferring?

It's how it's implemented and the tolerance for noncompliance. I was involved in college Athletics last year and this year. Some places hope people abide by it and do nothing and some places have people tell you once and if they tell you again then you're out. I agree that it's nice to have it to give us the best chance of keeping a) everyone safe b) players on the court and c) fans in the stand. And if guests of the university don't wear them while on campus, we all know where we're heading.

Quote from: vu72 on December 17, 2021, 01:33:19 PM

Quote from: vu84v2 on December 17, 2021, 12:39:02 PMand that the people who set it did so with the best of intent.

What?  What kind of "intent"  other than the best might you be inferring?

On many topics, there are people who read intentions far differently than the decision-maker(s)' actual intent.

Virus forecasts for the next month suggest it is going to be very difficult everywhere with the spread of Omicron. Loyola and Evansville cancel games due to Covid, disruptions occur in each pro league, as NY Times sports columnist calls for shutting down all sports through to February.

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Buckle up. It's going to get worse, much worse, between now and Nov. 8, 2022. There are variants coming that the vaccines we presently have won't protect against. Mail-in voting will be a must.

Quote from: wh on December 18, 2021, 10:15:19 AM
Buckle up. It's going to get worse, much worse, between now and Nov. 8, 2022. There are variants coming that the vaccines we presently have won't protect against. Mail-in voting will be a must.

I thought that the agreement on this forum was that politically-oriented comments would be made in the "General Off Topic" section.

Quote from: wh on December 18, 2021, 10:15:19 AM
Buckle up. It's going to get worse, much worse, between now and Nov. 8, 2022. There are variants coming that the vaccines we presently have won't protect against. Mail-in voting will be a must.

The uncertainties have to be great for ticket sales. I'm sitting on some good tickets for Valley games but I am totally up in the air about Monday and Wednesday. I really want to watch King play from up close and that includes being masked up sitting high in the mezzanine.

Will it happen next week? Who knows?  :'(

Quote from: vu84v2 on December 18, 2021, 12:31:30 PM

Quote from: wh on December 18, 2021, 10:15:19 AM
Buckle up. It's going to get worse, much worse, between now and Nov. 8, 2022. There are variants coming that the vaccines we presently have won't protect against. Mail-in voting will be a must.

I thought that the agreement on this forum was that politically-oriented comments would be made in the "General Off Topic" section.

It was a little lame but he was just trying to be funny. I chuckle at a lot of lame offerings.  ;)  Do I need to take my chuckles to "General Off Topic"?

This overraction in college baskeball to this virus is just plain stupid. We haven't learned a damn thing.

Quote from: justducky on December 18, 2021, 12:48:57 PM

Quote from: vu84v2 on December 18, 2021, 12:31:30 PM

Quote from: wh on December 18, 2021, 10:15:19 AM
Buckle up. It's going to get worse, much worse, between now and Nov. 8, 2022. There are variants coming that the vaccines we presently have won't protect against. Mail-in voting will be a must.

I thought that the agreement on this forum was that politically-oriented comments would be made in the "General Off Topic" section.

It was a little lame but he was just trying to be funny. I chuckle at a lot of lame offerings.  ;)  Do I need to take my chuckles to "General Off Topic"?

No, of course not. But everything in that comment is politically-oriented. The date. Mail-in voting. The suspicion of conspiracy.

Eron Gordon's GameDay vlog:

Interesting.  I'm wondering about the pre-game meal.  Looks like they were at some restaurant but the choice of food didn't look all that healthy or "pre-game".  No doubt this is part of their scholarship (i.e. no out of pocket for the players) but who picks the place and are they going there because these places are donating the meals?

Quote from: vu72 on December 20, 2021, 08:32:43 AM
Interesting.  I'm wondering about the pre-game meal.  Looks like they were at some restaurant but the choice of food didn't look all that healthy or "pre-game".  No doubt this is part of their scholarship (i.e. no out of pocket for the players) but who picks the place and are they going there because these places are donating the meals?

I think he said they were at Kelsey's -- the steak house on 30 east of campus.  I wondered about the choice of what looked like pretty heavy food and how many hours before the game that they were eating it.

This covid thing is getting way out of hand.  Now we have to mask up for games???????  Grow up people....every little bug, sniffle, cough, getting tired, aches or pains means a new virus and so it is time to close things up and wear masks. it is ridiculous.  It is time to grow up and quit making people scared to death.  Forms of the flu and colds have been around for centuries and will continue to exist in the future. We need to relax, enjoy life instead of fearing for our lives.

Quote from: valpo64 on December 20, 2021, 10:15:55 AM
This covid thing is getting way out of hand.  Now we have to mask up for games? ??? ???  Grow up people....every little bug, sniffle, cough, getting tired, aches or pains means a new virus and so it is time to close things up and wear masks. it is ridiculous.  It is time to grow up and quit making people scared to death.  Forms of the flu and colds have been around for centuries and will continue to exist in the future. We need to relax, enjoy life instead of fearing for our lives.

I am pro-mask. I am required to wear one at work and I choose to wear one when shopping at the grocery store, though I curse the Chinese government each time I do. Does it help, I am not certain, but it is a little inconvenience to endure if it does, plus I have family members who are vulnerable due to medical conditions. On the other hand, masking seems inconsistently useful. The university is requiring masks at basketball games to abide by campus-wide guidelines. However, how will masks work at games if people are buying drinks and food at concession stands? How diligent will everyone be and who is going to monitor compliance? Similarly, students must wear masks at all gatherings around campus except in the dining halls, where they eat and socialize without any mask daily.


By the way, masking and other measures will become even more rigid in the next month or so, as Indiana medical officials now predict the state will experience a record tsunami of cases by mid-January, just in time for the spring semester, which will put the remote learning possibility back on the table.

I am max-vaxed and still plan on attending tonight (Eastern Michigan) or Wed (William and Mary). I don't care if they chain me in isolation to the top row of mezzanine while triple masked. I just want to watch some basketball.

If everyone were vaccinated, no one would need to "mask up." Right, wrong, or indifferent, that's not the case. While it's true that even vaccinated people are getting COVID, would they be getting it at the same rate if not for 40-50% of the population that are not vaccinated spreading it like wildfire? Probably not. While it's none of my business what anyone else does, I have very little patience for anyone telling me I need to mask up when I'm no longer contributing to the problem.

QuoteLatest CDC data by vaccine status:

Unvaccinated: 451 cases per 100k
Vaccinated: 134 cases per 100k
Boosted: 48 cases per 100k

Unvaccinated: 6.1 deaths per 100k
Vaccinated: 0.5 deaths per 100k
Boosted: 0.1 deaths per 100k

Assuming the data hasn't been politicized, it's pretty clear that the vaccines are helping. More cases are coming from the unvaccinated and unboosted, fewer deaths are occuring from the vaccinated and boosted.

I have chosen to be vaccinated. I listened to my doc.

But everyone should look at the data themselves, talk with their doc, and make their own decision. This should not be mandated by the government. So I support those who have not decided to be vaccinated for whatever reasons they may have. Their body, their choice.

Mask don't work. The liberal scientist worshipped by the left, Dr. Fauci, said early on in the pandemic that masks don't work. But then he changed his mind and has been dead wrong on so many things. (It wasn't because the science on masks changed, it was political). People are more skeptical of the government figures and data because the goal posts keep changing. And the skepticism is warranted given the roller-coaster contradicting edicts coming out of Washington. It's sad that science itself has become political. But this is where we are in the world so dominated by woke culture.

Quote from: Just Sayin on December 20, 2021, 01:05:12 PMSo I support those who have not decided to be vaccinated for whatever reasons they may have. Their body, their choice.

Pretty dumb stuff really.  The unvaccinated are the ones allowing their bodies to host mutations which affect all us us.  The hospitals are going to be overrun by unvaccinated. "Their choice" is driving healthcare workers out of the profession through sheer exhaustion. It doesn't just affect them it impacts and could kill any of us, particularly if the next variation avoids the vaccines and we all shut down again or maybe just die.  The government has just as much right to mandate vaccinations as it does to require people to drive on the right side of the road or not to speed through school zones.  It isn't "their choice" when "their choice" affects other people.  This isn't "just another flu". 800,000 plus have died.

Why should anyone who has been fully vaccinated be fearful of being around anyone who is unvaccinated?

Quote from: Just Sayin on December 20, 2021, 01:53:02 PM
Why should anyone who has been fully vaccinated be fearful of being around anyone who is unvaccinated?

You may recall that Covid killed a fully-vaccinated Colin Powell.  I wasn't a math major, but I know that 95% effective is very different from 100% effective

Quote from: Just Sayin on December 20, 2021, 01:53:02 PM
Why should anyone who has been fully vaccinated be fearful of being around anyone who is unvaccinated?

We aren't but because we can carry and spread we are exercising cautions to benefit the bigger picture. I still think that a major risk to my health is waiting for a hospital bed while needing to address a non covid issue.

Quote from: humbleopinion on December 20, 2021, 02:14:46 PM

Quote from: Just Sayin on December 20, 2021, 01:53:02 PM
Why should anyone who has been fully vaccinated be fearful of being around anyone who is unvaccinated?

You may recall that Covid killed a fully-vaccinated Colin Powell.  I wasn't a math major, but I know that 95% effective is very different from 100% effective

Some people who are vaccinated for the flu also die from catching the flu. Odds of death for flu and COVID are about the same.

Follow the science.
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FFJTvh7VQAALbl8?format=jpg&name=small)

I know there's no talking to people who refuse to acknowledge facts but if COVID was like the flu we wouldn't have 800,000 deaths in this country. I'm sorry that it is hard and inconvenient and scary. But the history of the world has been full of hard times that have made things difficult for people and denying them and pretending everyone is lying to you is a child's way of handling tough information. Consider this my only post and I'm not responding cause this isn't a politics board but I'm tired this seeping into the main board.

Turns out I will not make tonight's game vs EM.  :'(  I'm thinking I have a greater chance of dying from basketball withdrawal than covid but both can have miserable effects on the body and mind.

Quote from: crusader05 on December 20, 2021, 04:01:12 PMI know there's no talking to people who refuse to acknowledge facts but if COVID was like the flu we wouldn't have 800,000 deaths in this country.

Just Sayin seems to have come a considerable distance from some of his original positions.  :o I like that and have chosen to avoid some good arguments that I could make but won't. We all learn from talking to each other so lets keep talking.

Quote from: justducky on December 20, 2021, 05:07:59 PM
Turns out I will not make tonight's game vs EM.  :'(  I'm thinking I have a greater chance of dying from basketball withdrawal than covid but both can have miserable effects on the body and mind.

Quote from: crusader05 on December 20, 2021, 04:01:12 PMI know there's no talking to people who refuse to acknowledge facts but if COVID was like the flu we wouldn't have 800,000 deaths in this country.

Just Sayin seems to have come a considerable distance from some of his original positions.  :o I like that and have chosen to avoid some good arguments that I could make but won't. We all learn from talking to each other so lets keep talking.

I haven't changed my original positions. You just don't understand the whole story. What positions have I changed?
There is a difference between the flu and the COVID only because the flu has been around for a long time and people have been taking flu shots for decades. Yes, when you don't have a vaccine, you lose lots of people at first but after the vaccine, you don't. That's just about where we are now, not quite.  The CDC says the survival rate NOW is over 99% for the vast majority of people. FACT. SCIENCE. We are not now where we were when the virus came to America. And yes, over 800,000 died. But that was then and things have changed dramatically. Quit looking in the rear view mirror. We've come a long way baby. We ain't done, but COVID is probably always going to be with us just as the common flu is always going to be with us. But all of this irrational fear leading to shut-downs and basketball games getting canceled is asinine and unsustainable. Let's get on with our lives people.

I think I must be lost...I was looking for a thread to talk about Valpo basketball...guess I'm in the wrong place...

This issue does affect Valpo basketball.

Quote from: Just Sayin on December 20, 2021, 05:53:11 PM
This issue does affect Valpo basketball.

Read the 10 or so posts before mine...this board has turned in to a place to spew political talking points, not exactly what I call engaging basketball discussion...

Quote from: Valpo2010 on December 20, 2021, 05:57:05 PM

Quote from: Just Sayin on December 20, 2021, 05:53:11 PM
This issue does affect Valpo basketball.

Read the 10 or so posts before mine...this board has turned in to a place to spew political talking points, not exactly what I call engaging basketball discussion...

Covid affects college basketball. Masks? Cancelled games? Hysteria?
This is a legitimate topic of discussion for Valpo Basketball whether you like the arguments presented or not.

Quote from: Just Sayin on December 20, 2021, 05:27:56 PMI haven't changed my original positions. You just don't understand the whole story. What positions have I changed?

Alright! That is exactly the response I wanted so chalk up another success for the duckster! You have to prove me wrong not the other way around. This is not a gentleman's game so you aren't the only one who can pull crap out of context!  ;)  Besides that I always pick my spots and words carefully while you post endlessly about well who knows what because nobody wants to read it. :)

Just take it as an honor for me to insult you and meanwhile we should mutually enjoy our big comeback against Eastern Michigan!

Quote from: justducky on December 20, 2021, 08:26:07 PM

Quote from: Just Sayin on December 20, 2021, 05:27:56 PMI haven't changed my original positions. You just don't understand the whole story. What positions have I changed?

Alright! That is exactly the response I wanted so chalk up another success for the duckster! You have to prove me wrong not the other way around. This is not a gentleman's game so you aren't the only one who can pull crap out of context!  ;)  Besides that I always pick my spots and words carefully while you post endlessly about well who knows what because nobody wants to read it. :)

Just take it as an honor for me to insult you and meanwhile we should mutually enjoy our big comeback against Eastern Michigan!

I knew you couldn't provide evidence that I changed my mind. So you are making a baseless claim where the burden was on you to show me what I've said before that is different from what I'm saying now. You can't.
Keep just making  :censored: up. You are good at it. Put up or shut up.

Requiring masks at Valpo athletic events is an extremely bad decision by the school. It does not make a lot of sense given that 98% of the student population is vaccinated AND the booster shot is required for students for the spring 2022 semester. Not only that, but it will crater the attendance to school athletic events, since the people who are already COVID cautious are not showing up anyways and none of the students who attend athletic events will want the hassle of having to wear a mask. I for one will not be attending any more athletic events until the mask requirement is lifted.

It's possible that someday Covid may be a manageable inconvenience, but given the rising numbers and the strain on the health system a mask seems an easy and effective mitigation. If wearing a mask helps even one person stay alive it seems worth it to me. It's not that hard.

Did anyone else watch the women's game and notice that when they panned to the group of 3 players (who admittedly had lots of space around them) and when lottich was in the background surrounded by others, none of them were wearing their masks?

I really hope we don't have an outbreak

From NWI Times:

MVC shifts dates for Valpo men's basketball:

The Missouri Valley Conference has announced a number of schedule changes, including date shifts for a pair of Valparaiso University men's basketball contests. Valpo's game at Southern Illinois, which was originally scheduled for Jan. 29, has been bumped to Jan. 30 at 4 p.m. The game vs. Evansville at the Athletics-Recreation Center originally scheduled for Feb. 1 has been bumped to Feb. 2 at 6 p.m. The date shifts were due to the addition of rescheduled games involving Southern Illinois and Evansville.

Originally Scheduled   New Date
Illinois State at Evansville - Jan. 8   Moves to UE at Illinois State, Jan. 9 (1 p.m. CT)
Evansville at Illinois State - Jan. 23   Moves to Illinois State at Evansville - Jan. 23 (Time TBD)
Drake at Southern Illinois - Jan. 5   Monday, Jan. 17 (7 p.m.)
Loyola at Southern Illinois - Jan. 2   Thursday, Jan. 27 (7 p.m.)
Valparaiso at Southern Illinois - Jan. 29   Moves to Sunday, Jan. 30 (4 p.m. CT)
Evansville at Valparaiso - Feb. 1   Moves to Wednesday, Feb. 2 (Time TBD)