Peoria, IL. The Bradley Braves left no doubt against the Eastern Michigan Eagles in the on-campus portion of the 2022 Cancun Challenge, winning 89-61.

1st Half

The first half started eerily similar to the game last game Bradley played back on Friday with just a total of 16 points between the two sides at the 13:50 mark. Bradley would go on a 6-0 run to open the scoring heading into the under 12-minute media timeout. Each time would cool off midway through the first half led by Bradley 16-11. BU, saw their defense contain everything the EMU offense threw at them by forcing 10 first-half turnovers, finally opening it up with a 22-6 run over the last 7 minutes to head into the locker room to a thunderous Carver Arena applause. Bradley shot much better compared to Utah State with an even 50% from the field and three-point line and 76% from the free throw line while holding EMU to just 31% from the field, 14%  from the three-point line. 

2nd Half

The second half didn't differ from the first half with the Bradley defense continuing to frustrate the Eagles, especially EMU guard Emoni Bates who was just 1-8 in the first half for four points. Bates was coming into this contest after having a 30-point performance against #22 Michigan. As far as individual performance go, Malevy Leons had a great outing for the Braves putting up 16 points, 6 rebounds, 2 blocks, and 2 assists. The Braves put the pedal down and never looked back leading by as many as 34 points at the 6:47 mark in the second half. Bradley closed out the game with the reserves getting some time down the stretch. Leading scores for each side, Leons with 16 for the Braves, and Emoni Bates scored 20 to lead all scorers. 

Hot shooting

Bradley shot 53% from the field, 33% from the three-point line, and 69% from the free throw line. The Braves last season were 7-1 in valley play when hitting 33% or better from three and it comes to be the make-or-break number for the Braves. Five Braves finished in double-figure with Leons, Henry, Hickman, Tahvanainen, and Montgomery combining for 63 of the 89 total points. Bradley also had a huge boost from their bench yet again outscoring the Eagles 35-15. BU also thrived in the hustle points owning a 25-3 fast break advantage. 

Looking ahead

Bradley will look now to Saturday as they welcome the SEMO Redhawks to Carver Arena. The Braves own a 9-2 all-time record over the Redhawks with an 8-1 record at home. SEMO also stands for the 4th longest current win streak for Bradley over a D-1 program at 7 wins in a row.

Where to watch

Bradley vs SEMO can be viewed on ESPN+ with Brian Bedo and Matt McClain as well as on the radio with 1470 WMBD. The game is set to tip off at 3 pm on Nov. 19th from Carver Arena.