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We’ll see if Bryce Drew more than an ubiquitous highlight

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If Bryce Drew can mix his father’s Xs and Os with his brother’s recruiting, Valparaiso might just be the next Horizon League power. Brad Stevens should take note.

The school announced Tuesday Drew would officially take over for his dad, Homer, the longtime coach who returned to coach the Crusaders after his other son, Scott, left the job to coach Baylor back in 2002. Scott’s thrived at Baylor, reaching the 2010 Elite Eight and landing some of the nation’s top recruits as well.

And Homer? Well, he merely led Valpo to 640 wins, a Sweet 16 back in 1998 and seven NCAA tournament trips overall. Now we’ll see if Bryce has the coaching gene.

“He has all the attributes we look for,” athletic director Mark LaBarbera said. “He knows what winning looks like from the inside, he has a keen understanding of the game of basketball and most important he understands the values that Valparaiso holds dear.”

Also, Bryce has this going for him.

Among March Madness highlights, only Christian Laettner and Lorenzo Charles routinely get more airtime than Bryce. After that shining moment, he played in the NBA and was by his dad’s side as an assistant. Hope he learned as much as he can. He’ll need it if he wants to fulfill his goal.

He’s seeking nothing less than what Stevens has done at conference rival Butler.

“My vision is very simple,” Bryce said. “To my dad, I’m extremely proud of what you accomplished here. To my brother, I’m very proud of what you’ve accomplished here. But my dream is to take Valpo to the next level.”

Honestly? Even if he doesn’t take Valpo to “the next level,” Drew will always have that amazing shot against Ole Miss in 1998. As legacies go, that’s one to relish.

You also can follow me on Twitter @MikeMillerNBC.