Valparaiso Star DJ Malloy Hungry for More After Historic Title

The standout guard is determined to lead his team back to the state championship game.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 1:59pm

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An extreme close-up of a high school basketball player driving to the hoop, their face and jersey dissolving into unrecognizable splatters of neon paint, capturing the raw energy and dynamism of the sport.Valparaiso's star guard DJ Malloy is determined to lead his team back to the state championship game and capture another title for the school.Valparaiso Today

DJ Malloy, the star guard who led Valparaiso High School to its first-ever state basketball championship last season, is not resting on his laurels. Instead, he is driven to guide his team back to the title game and capture another trophy for the school.

Why it matters

Malloy's success has put Valparaiso on the map as a basketball powerhouse, generating excitement in the community and drawing increased attention to the program. His determination to build on last year's historic achievement reflects the program's ambition to cement its status as an elite team in the state.

The details

As the reigning state champion, Valparaiso and Malloy will face heightened expectations and increased scrutiny this season. Malloy, who averaged 22 points, 6 assists and 5 rebounds per game last year, is ready to lead his team back to the title game and cement his legacy as one of the greatest players in school history.

  • Valparaiso won its first state championship in 2025.
  • The 2026 season will be Malloy's senior year.

The players

DJ Malloy

The star guard who led Valparaiso High School to its first state basketball championship as a junior last season.

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What they’re saying

“We want to go back and win it all again. That's the only thing on my mind right now.”

— DJ Malloy, Valparaiso High School Basketball Player

What’s next

Valparaiso will open its season on November 15th as they look to defend their state title.

The takeaway

DJ Malloy's determination to lead Valparaiso back to the state championship game reflects the program's ambition to cement its status as an elite basketball powerhouse in the state.