Sycamore Fans,

For generations, Missouri Valley Conference basketball has been defined by tradition, passion, and unforgettable championship moments in St. Louis. Few events in college athletics carry the excitement and history of Arch Madness, and today I am excited to share the next chapter of that incredible tradition.

Beginning in 2027, the Missouri Valley Conference will unite its Men's and Women's Basketball Championships under the Arch Madness banner in St. Louis, creating one of the most unique and exciting championship experiences in collegiate athletics.

This is not a replacement of Arch Madness, it is an expansion of everything that has made it special for more than 35 years. In conjunction with bringing both championships to St. Louis, the Missouri Valley Conference Board of Directors approved a revised tournament format that will feature 10 teams competing over four days in both men's and women's basketball beginning in 2027. The updated structure creates a more competitive championship environment while preserving the excitement and intensity that have become hallmarks of Valley basketball. It also aligns both tournaments under a consistent format that enhances the overall championship experience for student-athletes, fans, and institutional partners.

An important component of the new format is its emphasis on regular-season success. Beginning in 2027, the top two seeds will advance directly to the semifinals, creating meaningful advantages for teams that excel throughout conference play. With the recent expansion of the NCAA Basketball Tournaments, it is important that the Missouri Valley Conference positions itself and its member institutions for maximum success. Rewarding regular-season excellence strengthens our league, increases opportunities for multiple teams to earn postseason consideration, and enhances our ability to generate valuable NCAA Tournament units that directly benefit all conference institutions. This format recognizes sustained success throughout the season while preserving the excitement and drama that have always defined championship basketball in the Missouri Valley Conference.

By bringing both championships together in one city, the MVC is creating a true celebration of Valley basketball. Fans will have the opportunity to support both Sycamore programs, engage with fellow alumni and supporters, and experience an entire week dedicated to the very best of Missouri Valley Conference basketball.

The new format also provides a larger stage for women's basketball at a time when the sport continues to experience tremendous growth across the country. Combining the championships allows the conference to showcase the talent, competitiveness, and success of our student-athletes while creating additional opportunities for media exposure, fan engagement, and championship experiences.
Most importantly, the atmosphere, excitement, and tradition that fans have come to love about Arch Madness will remain intact. The energy inside the arena, the passion of Valley fans, and the pursuit of conference championships will continue to define this event. The difference is that even more student-athletes, alumni, and supporters will now be able to be part of the experience.

At Indiana State, we are excited about what this means for our student-athletes, coaches, alumni, and fans. The Missouri Valley Conference has long been one of the nation's premier basketball leagues, and this move positions our conference for continued growth and success in the years ahead.

While we look ahead to the future of Arch Madness, we are equally excited about the upcoming basketball season right here in Terre Haute. Our men's and women's basketball programs are hard at work this summer preparing for what promises to be an exciting year for Sycamore Nation. The men's program has added size, athleticism, and depth, while our women's program continues to build momentum and compete at a high level within the Missouri Valley Conference. There has never been a better time to secure your seats and be part of the excitement inside the Hulman Center, one of the premier venues in all of college basketball. We encourage you to renew your season tickets today by visiting our online ticket portal at https://am.ticketmaster.com/indianastate/buy, or by contacting Mason LaGrange directly at 812-237-8972.

Your support makes a tremendous difference for our student-athletes, and we look forward to seeing a packed Hulman Center throughout the season.

Thank you,


 
Nathan Christensen
Vice President &  Director of Athletics
Indiana State University