In the final regular season game of the year, Valpo came up short vs. #3 Hammond Central, 64-59.

The game was contested throughout; Hammond jumped out to an early lead, which Valpo surpassed by halftime, leading 25-23. Hammond proved difficult to put away as they re-took the lead and closed the game which saw 9 different lead changes and 5 ties throughout. 

Despite the loss, Valparaiso did play a well-balanced game that bodes well for our upcoming sectional schedule. The Vikings had four different players score in double-figures: dual 16-point efforts from Jack Smiley and Mason Jones, and matching 10-point contributions by Caden Crowell and Derrick Brooks.

Friday night's game was also our "Senior Night", which celebrated the contributions of 3 players: Connor McCall, Mason Jones, and Derrick Brooks, while also recognizing the impact of our senior manager Alexis Coberg--thank you seniors!

Additionally, the night saw Jack Smiley reach a Valparaiso milestone, surpassing VHS legend Roger Harden's single-season sophomore scoring record, congrats Jack!

The Boys Junior Varsity Team ended their season with a victory over the Hammond Central Wolves 68-30. Saving their best effort for the last game of the year the Vikings excelled on both ends of the floor with 10 different players scoring, a team 2:1 assist to turnover ratio, and they out rebounded the Wolves 38-9. Trent Kimes led the way with 21 points 6 rebounds, 7 assists, and a block and a steal. KJ Avery scored 9, and Colin Kaleth and Deandre Price each scored 8. 

The JV team ended their season 16-6 and won a share of the DAC championship with Lake Central going 6-1 in conference. 

Next up is opening round of Sectionals, hosted at Crown Point High School next week. Valpo will open up Sectionals with Lowell on Wednesday, March 1st at 7:30pm.