Valparaiso University’s men’s basketball program is heading to Nassau, The Bahamas, to take part in the Baha Mar Hoops Summer League, a series of exhibition matchups that will see the Crusaders face off against Canadian powerhouses Carleton University and Dalhousie University.
The games, scheduled as part of a broader international slate, give the team a rare chance to test its chemistry against diverse styles of play while building momentum for the regular season.
A Global Test Before the Regular Season
Head coach Roger Powell Jr. described the upcoming contests as a vital stepping stone, emphasizing that competition against strong international opponents will sharpen the squad’s instincts and expose areas for improvement.
Throughout the summer, the roster has been blending returning veterans with a wave of new talent. Junior forward Justus McNair will be entering his third year with the program, while five sophomores who helped the team last season are set to return alongside three freshmen who signed in November.
In addition, the Crusaders have added two in‑conference transfers and a new freshman, creating a mix that coach Powell says could be the most versatile group he has coached at Valparaiso.
The team’s cohesion has been a focal point of summer workouts, with daily practices designed to foster chemistry and a shared understanding of Powell’s offensive and defensive schemes.
Fans will be able to follow the action live on FloCollege, which will stream each exhibition game, providing a platform for the community to engage with the team’s preparation.
Beyond the Bahamas, the program’s schedule includes stops in locations ranging from Lisle, Illinois, to Barcelona, Spain, reflecting a growing ambition to expose the team to a worldwide basketball environment.