Peoria native and former Bradley University men’s basketball star Marcellus Sommerville is going into the Missouri Valley Conference’s Hall of Fame.
Sommerville was among the six-member 28th enshrinement class announced Wednesday. He is the 16th Braves representative in the MVC Hall of Fame, including 13 from the men’s basketball program.
“I was a bit shocked, obviously, with being acknowledged in that way. It was definitely surprising news,” said Sommerville. “I didn't know that it was possible; I mean, usually you see most guys that are inducted are a little older. So I didn't see it happening this fast, I guess you could say.
“I’m extremely grateful that they obviously saw enough in my game and what we accomplished as a team to do something like that.”
Sommerville, a Peoria High School graduate, was a three-time all-conference selection during his Bradley career, including first-team selections in 2004 and 2005. He led the Braves in scoring during each of his three seasons, ranking among the Valley’s top five in both points and rebounds every year.
A 6-foot-7 forward, Sommerville averaged 19 points per game during the Braves’ three-game run in the 2006 NCAA Tournament.
“Honestly, when you’re playing, you don't really think about the accolades of it all. Obviously, you play for the team and you play for all these different reasons for, family and things like that. So reading and seeing some of it as you reflect on it, I didn't realize that I was the only player in Missouri Valley history to have 600-plus rebounds and over 150 threes (3-pointers) in three years.
“None of this stuff happens without great teammates, great coaches who believe in you, and ultimately, an extreme work ethic that that drives you.”
Sommerville followed his college career with 14 professional seasons overseas. Since retiring from basketball, he has served as CEO of the Peoria Friendship House of Christian Services.
The MVC Hall of Fame ceremony will occur during the men’s basketball tournament March 6-9 in St. Louis. Sommerville said it would be even more special if the Braves would happen to win the tourney.
“No pressure for Bradley, but I think this is a great year for our team and our city,” he said, alluding to the Braves being tabbed as preseason MVC favorites. “To be inducted in the same year could be really something special, potentially.”
Other members of this year’s class include former Southern Illinois men’s basketball coach Bruce Weber and former Drake women’s basketball coach Lisa Bluder. Weber coached at Illinois and Kansas State after leaving the Salukis, while Bluder led Iowa to 22 postseason appearances following her time with the Bulldogs.