Anecdotally, MVC was a ghost in Chicagoland 5 years ago. Gradually grabbed more awareness the last 5 years.
Then exploded the past month.
Remember the ILST/Loyola finale where secondary ticket prices exceeded the Blackhawks/Bulls/DePaul combined?
The MVC final that ranked 6th among conferences and exceeded last year’s ratings by 30%?
Now the Sister Jean Mania that’s everywhere (GMA, Access Hollywood, record setting bobblehead sales
)?
And the Sears Tower and other prominent skyscrapers draped in maroon/gold or LUC lighting?
What many thought was a strikeout looking 5 years ago was actually a mystery jackpot. A dropped 3rd strike turned grand slam.
For the first time in my life, I am finding everyday people talking Missouri Valley hoops. And that’s without me initiating conversation.
It’s one thing to speculate market potential. It’s another to see it with your own eyes.
Dream come true. Thank you Loyola.