Run it Back
Valpo Retains 3 Key players heading into the 26-27 Season
Despite the season ending in a way nobody wanted, next season has already started to gain momentum.
It first started with an announcement from the Valparaiso Athletic Department that due the generosity of alumni donors, improvements can be made to the Valparaiso Beacons home arena The Athletics-Recreation Center. “Thanks to the support and generosity of Cynthia (Cindy) Atwater '75 Felton and Dr. John (Jack) Felton '74”. It is believed that industrial air condition will be put into the arena.
At around 7pm, the Valpo online accounts posted that star-studded freshman, JT Pettigrew would be returning to Valpo to play his sophomore season under Coach Roger Powell.
Following the next two hours the Valpo accounts posted that sophomore Justus McNair and freshman Rakim Chaney would both be returning to play alongside JT Pettigrew in the 2026-2027 season campaign.
These 3 players were crucial the success during the season. JT was the runner up and what should have been (not bias lol) Freshman of the Year in the Missouri Valley Conference. Justus was big minutes and points off the bench serving most the season at the Beacons 6th man. Rakim started almost every game as the starting point guard this season and led the team in assists.
The road to next season seems to be on an upward trend. Many of us and fans hope to see more posts about key players returning next season. Here at The Valpo Vault we will be sure to keep you in the loop about returning and new players.
Having spent the weekend in St. Louis, the whole vibe around the program seemed positive compared with recent years. I am so excited!
First of all many huge thanks to the ATwaters for their generous donation to support a great team. Hopefully more will follow in their footsteps to give back. Second, wow wow wow for the three returning players. Coach Powell is an amazing coach and life teacher and these young men will gain more then just more basketball skills staying under his tutelage. Sooo excited already about next season!!!!!!