With the 2017-18 season right around the corner, the Valparaiso University men's and women's basketball teams hosted their annual Season Ticket Holder Open Practice on Friday evening at the ARC.

The teams ran through some practice drills in front of over 350 Crusader fans. Director of athletics Mark LaBarbera addressed the crowd, discussing the athletic department's excitement about being a member of the Missouri Valley Conference and highlighting the programs' promotional schedule and alumni events. The teams were then introduced to the crowd by their head coaches - Tracey Dorow on the women's side and Matt Lottich on the men's side. The fans enjoyed dinner and interaction with the players and coaches, and also got a look at videos inside practices from both teams as they approach the coming season.

The men’s team hosts its lone exhibition game on Thursday, Nov. 2 as the Crusaders welcome Robert Morris for a 7 p.m. tip. The Crusader women take on St. Francis (Ill.) in their only exhibition contest on Tuesday, Nov. 7, also a 7 p.m. start.