Valparaiso Heads to CSU Invitational for Three-Game Stretch
The Valparaiso Beacons (0-5) are set for a demanding, fast-paced slate as they head to Cleveland, Ohio, for the CSU Invitational. Over four days, the team will grapple with three games that could shape the early part of the season and provide a valuable test against a mix of non-conference opponents. The event unfolds at Woodling Gymnasium, a familiar campus venue that will host Radford, Cleveland State, and St. Bonaventure in quick succession.
Game 1: Radford Comes First (Nov. 26, 2 p.m. CT)
Valparaiso opens the invite with a challenging tilt against Radford, a squad carrying a winning record at 4-3. The Beacons will look to build early rhythm and tighten execution on both ends of the floor. Radford’s offense has shown consistency, so Valpo will need to apply pressure, contest shooters, and protect the ball to keep pace. This game offers a chance for the Beacons to attack inside and establish a forward-friendly approach that can translate to the next games in the Invitational.
Game 2: A Quick Turnaround at Cleveland State (Nov. 28, noon CT)
The second game of the CSU Invitational pits Valparaiso against Cleveland State, a team currently 4-1 and playing in front of its home crowd. A short turnaround time tests adaptability and depth. For Valpo, the focus will be on defensive discipline, rebounding endurance, and capitalizing on transitions. With a well-rounded CSU squad, the Beacons will need to execute on half-court sets and create high-percentage looks to stay in the game deep into the fourth quarter.
Game 3: St. Bonaventure Returns to the Bench (Nov. 29, noon CT)
The final game of the invitational features St. Bonaventure, a team currently 5-1 and likely brimming with confidence after a string of competitive performances. Valparaiso will aim to slow down the Bonnies’ scoring options and force difficult shots, while looking to generate offense from defensive stops. The Beacons’ path to success involves exploiting mismatches, executing late-game plays, and keeping turnovers at a minimum to stay in a position to close out the invitation on a positive note.
What this CSU Invitational Means for Valpo
Three games in four days is a true test of depth, focus, and resilience. For a program still seeking consistency early in the season, the CSU Invitational offers a valuable sandbag-free environment to evaluate lineups, refine rotations, and measure progress against a mix of competition from the mid-major landscape. Each matchup provides a chance to implement game plans that emphasize shot selection, defensive communication, and offensive pace. coaches will be looking for growth in teamwork and readiness to handle pressure—qualities that can pay dividends as the schedule builds toward conference play.
Key Areas to Watch
- Defensive intensity: How Valpo contested shots and secured rebounds against varied offensive styles.
- Early offense and pace: The Beacons’ ability to establish tone early in each game.
- Bench contributions: Depth moments that keep pressure off the starters and create energy in transition.
- Turnover management: Limiting live-ball giveaways to sustain offensive possessions.
Venue and Travel Notes
Woodling Gymnasium in Cleveland, Ohio, hosts CSU Invitational action, with a capacity of about 3,000. The trip represents a practical opportunity for Valparaiso to build team chemistry across back-to-back games while dealing with travel logistics typical of a busy college basketball schedule. Local fans and supporters will have rare chances to scout three distinct opponents within a short window, adding an extra layer of excitement to the trip.
Bottom Line
Valparaiso enters the CSU Invitational looking to translate hard work in practices into tangible results on the court. With games against Radford, Cleveland State, and St. Bonaventure, the Beacons have the opportunity to demonstrate growth, tighten rotations, and set the stage for a more competitive stretch of the season. Every possession will count as Valpo aims to turn early-season lessons into momentum in the weeks ahead.
