Valpo Overcomes Halftime Deficit, Wins 76-72 in OT
The Beacons only held the lead for 2:47 in regulation
Your Valparaiso Beacons showed their “GRIT” on the road Saturday afternoon, grinding out a hard-fought overtime victory against Indiana State in a Missouri Valley Conference showdown that carried all the intensity of a late-season battle.
After trailing by double digits in the first half (10) and struggling to find an offensive rhythm early, the Beacons refused to fold, clawing their way back with disciplined defense, timely shot-making, and poise under pressure. The game remained tense through the final possessions of regulation before Valpo took control in overtime, silencing the home crowd and earning a statement win that could prove pivotal as conference play continues.
In the first half, the Beacons made just three of their first 13 field-goal attempts in the opening 10 minutes, shooting a cold 23 percent from the field. They were unable to create open looks and lacked aggressiveness offensively, issues that contributed to a 10-point deficit (37–27) heading into halftime.
After the game, head coach Roger Powell Jr. discussed the adjustments made during the break. “I challenged them,” Powell said, noting that several coaching adjustments were also necessary. Once the second half began, it was clear those changes were taking effect.
The Beacons came out firing in the second half, shooting 56 percent from the field (17-for-30). They looked like a completely different team, playing to their strengths by attacking the paint, drawing fouls, and making key defensive stops on the other end. The final four minutes turned into a back-and-forth battle. Carter Hopoi was fouled on what could have been the game-winning shot but missed both free throws, keeping the score tied and sending the game into overtime.
Hopoi redeemed himself in overtime, knocking down clutch free throws and an early three-pointer. Valpo made several tough defensive stops down the stretch and ultimately pulled out a 76–72 victory.
The win marked Valpo’s third consecutive overtime victory over Indiana State, with the most recent prior meeting coming at home last season. It also snapped a five-game losing streak in games decided by five points or fewer, marking the Beacons’ first win in such a contest since their victory over Nicholls State back in November.
Key Performers
J.T. Pettigrew led the Beacons with 17 points while also grabbing nine rebounds, providing consistent production inside.
Owen Dease added 16 points, continuing his strong offensive play down the stretch.
Carter Hopoi provided a spark with 14 points and seven rebounds, including crucial baskets in overtime.
Justus McNair and Rakim Chaney also reached double figures, giving Valpo five players in double figures by game’s end.
Back on the Road again
Valpo will head to play Bradley on the road Tuesday at 7pm, which will be streamed on ESPN+. Following that they will head back home to the ARC and face Evansville for the first time on a Friday night showdown.
*Also, as a side note, I would have not been able to go to this game without the wonderful Valparaiso athletic staff. A big thanks for all of the hospitality they have given!
Road wins are hard to come by and to see them respond after the first half was great to see. Valpo will be a dangerous matchup in March at the Arch!
This team certainly gives its fans excitement. They are exciting in wins and losses and a team that should get its fans following for each match. I loved the word you used….GRIT. They indeed do have that and never give up. They believe in themselves and most important, the coach believes in them and never lets them forget that. I didn’t attend Valpo, didn’t have children who attended Valpo, and don’t have grandchildren there but I am so vested in this team from reading the blogs of Carson and Alex. I follow this team because they are worthy to follow and can only wish them many more great victories coming up. In any case I will be here cheering them on!