Basketball standout Kobe Walker commits to Valparaiso after Central Michigan coaching shake-up

Inkspot Staff and Ethane Delio

Apr 23, 2025

As a senior, Walker averaged 19 points, 12 rebounds and 2 blocks per game—and shattered two program records. His 24-rebound night against Richwoods set a single-game record and his 426 rebounds on the season broke a record that stood since 1972. Image Courtesy: Kobe Walker // X

Just weeks after decommiting from Central Michigan, Kobe Walker has found a new home for next season, announcing his commitment to Valparaiso University in a social media post April 22.

The move to the Missouri Valley Conference’s Beacons gives local fans the chance to watch the All-State center compete at the next level—possibly in Normal. Since Valpo and Illinois State are both members of the MVC, Walker could suit up at CEFCU Arena again—this time as a visiting college player.

Walker reopened his recruitment on April 8 following a coaching change at Central Michigan. The university released head coach Tony Barbee on April 3.

With Barbee posting a 49-75 record over four seasons, and just one winning campaign, CMU cited the need to go in “a different direction with the leadership of our men’s basketball program.”

Under NCAA rules, student-athletes may request a release from a university if a coaching change occurs before they enroll or begin preseason practice—allowing Walker to reopen his recruitment without penalty.

The 6-foot-9 senior led the Ironmen to a 28-7 record this season and was named an IHSA Class 4A First-Team All-State selection and Big 12 Conference Co-Player of the Year.

Valparaiso, which finished 15-19 overall and 6-14 in the MVC last season, is looking to rebuild—now with Walker as part of its incoming class.

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