In a game that Valpo led start to finish, you never really got the feeling that East Chicago would come back in this one. The couple runs that ECC made were quickly countered by Valpo runs of their own. Valpo showed depth as well, going 10 deep. They were able to handle the ECC pressure well enough to finish this one with the W.  This was Valparaiso's night the whole way, as it was coach Ben Lieske's first win. Congrats!

2025 Valpo guard Jack Smiley had himself a ballgame. This was the first time I have seen him go off like this personally, but knew he had it in him. Stuffed the stat sheet and was solid all game. Sneaky athletic and long. Can hit from outside when he gets his feet under him with smooth lefty shot. Currently has Valpo and Ohio offers, which is a great level for him. I expect him to have a great junior year that leads into a big time senior season. More offers loading...

6'8" Viking senior big man Alec Pladipodis did what he always does; score inside and rebound. Great fit at a D3 with his size and length down low. Has a handful of offers to choose from at that level.

A pleasant surprise for me in this one was ECC 6'6 junior Yamauree Wallace. D1 potential with a stop at a post grad most likely, but showed athleticism and his ability to shoot and rebound. Especially shoot over defenders. Versatile defender as well. Need to see some more of him for sure!

ECC junior guard Dominique Murphy came into this contest with probably the most hype. He's been discussed as one of the top of his class in the state. Finished this one shooting 12/24 from the field and 8 rebounds. Didn't hit any shots from outside, but the form is there. Did all of his damage in the post, put-back rebounds, and a couple nice jumpers from 10-12 foot. Hasn't reached his full potential yet, and motor is trending in the right direction. With continued work, Murphy could be a name we see mentioned for a potential Indiana All Star his senior year.

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