WNCC's Hamblin signs with Division I Mississippi Valley State

Western Nebraska Community College sophomore Chris Hamblin has always dreamed of playing in the Southwestern Athletic Conference as well as in the South.

Last week, Hamblin got his wish after signing letter of intent with Mississippi Valley State University, a Division I institution.

“I have a lot of family that lives in Mississippi and I have always had the dream to go back to the south,” Hamblin said. “I’ve always been interested in playing in that league and wanting a D1 scholarship.”

WNCC coach Brian Joyce said Mississippi Valley State is a perfect fit for Hamblin, who should see some playing time.

"He deserves an opportunity to compete at the next level and I am glad he is getting the chance,” Joyce said. “MVSU went to the national tournament so Chris will get a chance to be a part of a good program. The style of play fits his game very well and will allow him to be successful."

Hamblin is excited to be going to a program that he can fit into right away.

“I choose Mississippi Valley because it is a good school,” Hambllin said. “Mississippi Valley State plays very hard and there style of play fits my game.”

Last season for the Cougars, Hamblin averaged five points and six rebounds a game while starting 26 of 31 games. This season, Hamblin has been a starter and has provided plenty of leadership on a realitively young team. He is averaging about eight points and five rebounds a game in the first nine games for the Cougars.

Joyce said it is nice to have a student athlete like Hamblin in the WNCC program.
Chris has been a tremendous ambassador for our program,” Joyce said.”He comes to practice everyday and works his tail off. He is a great example of a player who understands the sacrifice and committment needed to be contributer to a successful program.”

Joyce said that at MVSU, he will be able to finish his degree as well.

“Chris is committed to getting his degree,” he said. “This next step will afford him the opportunity to reach this goal.”

Mississippi Valley State is 0-5 this season after opening the contest with losses to Oklahoma and James Madison in the pre-season NIT tournament. The Delta Devils also play contests close to the Scottsbluff area, including a contest against the University of Montana last Thursday, where they were defeated.

The Delta Devils also face Iowa State in Ames, Iowa, on Nov. 29, and then head to Omaha to face Creighton on Dec. 2.