Valparaiso Scores Sectional Semifinal Win Against Kankakee Valley

Valparaiso Scores Sectional Semifinal Win Against Kankakee Valley

Purdue commit Brandon Newman led Valparaiso High School on Friday night with 29 points in a dominate display of basketball against the Kankakee Valley Kougars. From the tip-off to the final seconds, this game was Valpo’s.

Despite their record this season, the Kougars showed up with lots of energy as they looked ready to disrupt the Vikings quick, high-caliber offense early on in the first quarter.

Click Here For More Photos

With Newman missing his first two attempts of the night, Kankakee Valley seemed confident in their game plan and continued to attack, tying the game momentarily at seven. But Newman came alive, and found his shot, pulling up from seemingly everywhere.

“I’m looking for everyone to step up and makes plays tonight,” said Valparaiso Vikings Coach Barak Coolman, before the game.

It is safe to say his team certainly achieved that. Early in the third quarter, Valpo guard Colton Jones found himself on a fast break with Newman and ambitiously attempted an alley-oop off the backboard. The pass was unfortunately misjudged and slipped high out of Newmans hands as he was coming down with what was sure to be a slam dunk.

Despite their efforts, KV was sent into the locker room with a 47-13 deficit.

As Valpo was holding a 30 point lead shortly into the third quarter, Valpo’s Coach Coolman subbed in many players off the bench, giving them unforgettable playing time. This also gave his starters a chance to rest for the Sectional Championship game tomorrow night.

The Vikings played a strong game to say the least, and their work on Friday brought them to a final score of 80-30 against the Kougars. Valpo will next face the Chesterton Trojans on Saturday to hopefully etch their name into Indiana Basketball history.