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Valparaiso 'motivated' for new challenge in MVC

NORMAL — Losing your star is never easy. Yet Missouri Valley Conference basketball coaches believe the league can carry plenty of clout going forward.

Although still listed on the league's website, Wichita State officially leaves the Valley on July 1, headed for the American Athletic Conference. Valparaiso will take the Shockers' spot.

"I don't want to talk about anyone we lost, but I would love to talk about someone we added. I'm really excited about Valpo," said Southern Illinois' Barry Hinson during Tuesday's MVC coaches summer teleconference.

"It could look like 'The Wild West' next year where everyone came into the summer thinking they could win a championship .