Nathan Christensen, the Director of Athletics at Indiana State University, announced an expansion of the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) basketball championships. Starting in 2027, both men's and women's tournaments will be held together in St. Louis under the Arch Madness brand. This change aims to enhance the championship atmosphere and emphasize regular-season performance, by allowing the top two teams to advance directly to the semifinals. The new format seeks to recognize consistent excellence throughout the season while promoting growth and visibility for women's basketball. Christensen highlights that this alignment will create a more unified experience for fans, athletes, and the conference itself.

By the Numbers
  • The new tournament format will feature 10 teams competing over four days.
  • Top two seeds in each tournament will advance directly to the semifinals beginning in 2027.
State of Play
  • Indiana State's men's and women's basketball programs are actively preparing for the upcoming season.
  • Fans are encouraged to renew season tickets to support the teams at the Hulman Center.
What's Next

As the 2027 championship nears, fans can expect a more collaborative celebration of basketball, with increased engagement opportunities and media exposure for women's sports. Preparations for the new tournament structure will be integral to ensure successful execution and fan experience.

Bottom Line

The new championship format underlines the MVC’s commitment to fostering competitive excellence and enhancing the basketball experience for fans and student-athletes alike. This evolution paves the way for both immediate excitement and long-term growth within the conference.