Roger Powell Jr., Bruce Weber share ‘special’ moment after Valpo stuns Purdue

In a thrilling double overtime contest at Mackey Arena on November 7, 2026, Valparaiso University's basketball team pulled off an astonishing upset by defeating the Purdue Boilermakers 83-80. Justus McNair hit a clutch three-pointer with mere seconds left on the clock to secure the win for the highly-touted Bulldogs, who were facing a significant early-season challenge against the favored Boilermakers.

Following the dramatic victory, Valpo head coach Roger Powell Jr. sat down with Bruce Weber, who had guided Powell during the latter's time coaching at Illinois. Weber, who was also the color commentator for the game, provided a thoughtful and heartfelt assessment of the win.

"We clinched a Big Ten championship here," Weber remarked, emphasizing the historical significance of the victory. "But for you as a head coach, this has gotta go down as one of the best you've ever been part of." Powell, visibly moved by the praise, responded, "Oh, absolutely. And to do it with my coach calling the game was really special. Having you at shootaround today meant a lot to me."

The special moment was a testament to the deep bond between the two coaches, whose paths crossed nearly two decades apart. Weber, now in his fourth year as Valparaiso's head coach, had been Powell's mentor during Powell's early coaching career at Illinois. Weber's interview with Powell after the game showcased genuine admiration and appreciation for the young coach's growth and development.

"We've got a special bunch," Weber said, reflecting on the grit and determination displayed by the Valparaiso players throughout the game. "They never give up. They never give up. And that's a part of our program, our culture. We talk about grit." Powell, in turn, acknowledged the wisdom he gleaned from Weber's coaching, acknowledging that this experience would undoubtedly shape his own coaching career.

This remarkable win marked the beginning of Valparaiso's 2026-27 college basketball season, with the Beacons currently holding a 2-0 record. The special moment between Powell and Weber stood as a shining example of the lasting impact of mentorship and the unbreakable spirit of Valparaiso basketball.