The #15 Valparaiso University bowling team is set to host the seventh annual Crusader Classic, a three-day tournament beginning Friday morning at Inman's Bowling & Recreation Center in Valparaiso. Once again, the Crusaders will welcome a strong field with some of the nation’s best squads to Valpo.

The 14-team field features 11 of the nation's top-25 teams and six of the top-10, including preseason #1 Nebraska and #2 Arkansas State. This is the 7th annual Crusader Classic, as Valpo has hosted the event each season since its inaugural campaign. Six of the seven previous Crusader Classic champions are in this year's field (Nebraska - 2010, 2014; Valparaiso - 2011; Central Missouri - 2012; Arkansas State - 2013).

The full list of participating teams includes #RV Alabama A&M, #25 Alabama State, #2 Arkansas State, Aurora, #8 Central Missouri, Elmhurst, #9 McKendree, #23 Monmouth, #1 Nebraska, #21 Prairie View A&M, #19 Tulane, #15 Valparaiso, #5 Vanderbilt and #7 UW-Whitewater.

The tournament will begin at 10:05 a.m. CT Friday, Nov. 6, with five 5-game baker matches. Saturday's action begins at 9:25 a.m. CT and will consist of five traditional team matches. Sunday's play will start at 8:55 a.m. CT and will be bracket play, seeded based on the first two days of competition, with three best 4-of-7 baker matches.