For the last four years, Wichita State claimed at least a share of the Valley title, including two Arch Madness championships and an undefeated run through the conference in 2014. But now, the Shockers have moved on to the American conference and suddenly the teams of the Missouri Valley have a chance to make the NCAA Tournament without having to go through Wichita. The team that has seized this opportunity so far is Loyola-Chicago, who only joined the conference in the 2013-14 season.
The Missouri Valley tournament will feature all ten teams playing in a four round tournament. All of the games will be held at the Scottrade Center in St. Louis, Missouri, hence the nickname, "Arch Madness"
First Round-Thursday, March 1st
#10 Valparaiso vs #7 Missouri State
#9 Northern Iowa vs #8 Evansville
Quarterfinals-Friday, March 2nd
#9 Northern Iowa vs #1 Loyola-Chicago
#5 Bradley vs. #4 Drake
#7 Missouri State vs. #2 Southern Illinois
#6 Indiana State vs. #3 Illinois State
Semifinals-Saturday, March 3rd
#4 Drake vs. #1 Loyola-Chicago
#7 Missouri State vs. #6 Indiana State
Final-Sunday, March 4th
The difference between second place Southern Illinois and last place Valparaiso was five games. The difference between conference champion Loyola-Chicago and Southern Illinois was four games. The Ramblers were head and shoulders above the rest of the league that mostly beat up on itself. I expect Loyola-Chicago to win their first Valley championship and make the NCAA Tournament for the first time since their Sweet 16 run in 1985.
Indiana State 62, Loyola-Chicago 69
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