Since earning Division I status in 1981, UIC has amassed 75 conference championships and made 47 NCAA postseason appearances. This is a tremendous step in the evolution of our athletics programs, and one that we are thrilled to embrace moving forward as we provide opportunities for our student-athletes to not only compete, but to succeed at the highest levels.”

“The Valley is a conference that is not only rich in tradition with a storied history of success, but it aligns UIC with other like-minded institutions that share in our vision for the future of higher education and athletics. “As the University of Illinois Chicago continues to thrive on the local, national and global stage, joining the Missouri Valley Conference is an honor for the Flames,” Amiridis said. The league’s existing membership includes three Illinois schools: Bradley University, Illinois State University, and Southern Illinois University Carbondale, as well as Drake University, University of Evansville, Indiana State University, Missouri State University, University of Northern Iowa and Valparaiso University.

The UIC Flames will be the MVC’s 12th member institution, entering the conference for the 2022-23 academic year alongside fellow newcomers Belmont University and Murray State University. Amiridis and Director of Athletics Michael Lipitz jointly announced today. The University of Illinois Chicago, currently in its 40th year of NCAA Division I competition, has accepted an invitation to join the Missouri Valley Conference, effective July 1, UIC Chancellor Michael D.

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