Men’s Basketball Pursues Longest Winning Streak Since 2018-19 on Wednesday

The Valparaiso University men’s basketball team is gearing up for a significant matchup against Southern Indiana on Wednesday, November 26, at 2 p.m. CT. The game will take place at the Athletics-Recreation Center in Valparaiso, Indiana. Currently boasting a 4-1 overall record, the Beacons aim to achieve their longest winning streak since the 2018-19 season.

Current Winning Streak and Upcoming Contest

Valparaiso is looking to extend its winning streak to four games. This follows a 90-75 victory over Cleveland State last week. Despite facing challenges with player illness, Valpo succeeded thanks to standout performances from Rakim Chaney, Shon Tupuola, and Justus McNair, who each scored over 20 points.

Highlights from Last Game

• Valpo defeated Cleveland State 90-75 on November 19.
• Rakim Chaney scored 23 points, while Shon Tupuola and Justus McNair contributed 21 points each.
• This performance marked the first time three Valpo players scored over 20 points in a game since January 2023.

Looking Ahead

Following the game against Southern Indiana, Valpo will host Western Michigan at 2 p.m. on Saturday, continuing their home stand throughout the Thanksgiving weekend.

Team Performance and Records

This season, Valpo has started strong, holding a 3-0 record at home so far. A win against Southern Indiana would mark the first time since 2019-20 that Valpo begins 4-0 at home. Currently, Valparaiso stands at a 4-1 record through its first five games, the best start since the 2019-20 season.

Winning Streak Significance

With a victory on Wednesday, Valparaiso would improve to 5-1. This achievement would represent their best record through six games since the 2017-18 season, where they began with an 8-0 record. Moreover, a win would signify the Beacons’ longest winning streak since the 2018-19 campaign, when they had a five-game stretch.

Player Performances

Rakim Chaney is currently averaging 18.4 points and 4.2 rebounds per game. He has scored in double figures in all five games this season, highlighting his essential role in the team’s success. His continued performance will be key as Valpo seeks to make history with their longest winning streak.

Scouting Southern Indiana

The Screaming Eagles of Southern Indiana come into this matchup with a 1-5 overall record. They were picked to finish ninth in the Ohio Valley Conference preseason poll. Key players for Southern Indiana include Ismail Habib, averaging 18.3 points per game, and Tolu Samuels, who leads in rebounding at 6.8 per contest.

Coaching and Strategy

Under the leadership of Head Coach Roger Powell Jr., Valpo’s approach emphasizes robust defense and effective scoring. As the team prepares for these crucial matchups, they will aim to maintain their momentum and continue building towards an even more successful season.

Fans are encouraged to attend the game and participate in a “Most Iconic Jersey” contest for a chance to win an autographed Valpo jersey. This initiative adds an exciting element to the upcoming game and symbolizes the strong community support behind the team.