Photos by Lance Sutehall, Stadium Journey
Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.29
Harrison HPER Complex 14000 Highway 82 Itta Bena, MS 38941
Year Opened: 1977
Capacity: 5,000
The Devil Went Down To The Delta
The small city of Itta Bena, Mississippi is home to Mississippi Valley State University, a Division One Historically Black College and University (HBCU). The school enrolled over 2,000 students during the Fall 2023 semester.
The athletic programs are known as the “Delta Devils” and they compete in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). The basketball team has made five NCAA Tournament appearances, last making the big dance in 2012.
Food & Beverage 2
Stadium basics such as nachos ($4), popcorn ($2), hot dogs ($4), wings ($6), and Pepsi branded beverages ($3) are sold at the Harrison Complex. Cash and cards are accepted for payment but alcohol is not sold at the arena.
Atmosphere 3
Upon walking into the Harrison Complex the floor greets you with a logo of the Delta Devils program. After walking up a flight of stairs to enter the seating bowl, a trophy case showcases the athletic successes of the Delta Devils program.
The venue was renovated in 2016 and the result is a seating bowl with chairback seats that only go 11 rows back. The walls are decorated with banners showcasing the successes of the program over the years.
The band does an amazing job of keeping the energy up during breaks in game action. During halftime they play so loud that you can not hear yourself talking.
Neighborhood 2
Itta Bena is a small town. Dining options include Larry’s Fish House, W8 Restaurant and Sports Bar, and Capricorn’s Cafe.
There’s not much in the way of tourist attractions in Itta Bena. A drive eight miles East to the Museum of the Mississippi Delta in Greenwood is worth a stop.
Lodging will also be in Greenwood with hotel chains such as Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn, and Comfort Suites being options for overnight stays.
Fans 2
The band does a great job of keeping the atmosphere up during basketball games. The fans that do show up to games have pride in the Delta Devils.
Access 3
The campus of Mississippi Valley State is on highway 82. After entering the campus the arena will be on the left. The arena is easy to walk around as long as you can walk up a flight of stairs.
Return on Investment 3
A ticket is $15 and lets you see both a men’s and women’s game. The band will give some great performances. The parking is free and concessions probably won’t run you more than $10. $25 for a day of SWACtion is what the Valley offers.
Extras 1
Jerry Rice played college football for the Delta Devils.
Final Thoughts
Mississippi Valley State has its struggles as a underfunded school in a small town. But its alumni are proud to be alumni and there have been successes for the Delta Devils over the years.
The fans and alumni are ready to see a competitive Delta Devils program again. Hopefully Mississippi Valley State can deliver soon.