The Braves, looking for their first conference win, found a tough matchup against Southern Illinois. 
 
The Braves were in for a tough test against Southern Illinois, the reigning MVC conference champions. The Salukis shot 60% and 69.2% in the first two quarters, shooting making 18 of their 28 shots. Bradley struggled from the floor, averaging 35.7% between the first two quarters and not making it to the free throw line more than once, but the Braves shot better from three-point range, going four for ten while SIU went two for six. SIU got to the free throw seven times in the first half and made five of those shots. SIU once again had a strong quarter in the third, shooting 68.8% from the floor and 50% from three and the free throw line. Bradley found a more consistent rhythm in the third as they shot 44%, but they once again struggled to get to the free throw line, not making a single trip. Shooting percentages swapped for the fourth, as the Braves shot 36.8% while SIU shot just 27.8%. Bradley also made four threes while the Salukis made none, and the Braves shot 100% from the free throw line in the fourth, SIU shooting 57.1%. 

 
NOTABLES
Caroline Waite finished the game with 16 points and one steal. 
Ruba Abo Hashesh scored 13 points, also picking up four rebounds, three assists and one steal. 
Alex Rouse and Daija Powell each scored 11 points and brought down four rebounds. 
 
WHAT'S NEXT
The Braves head south to Missouri State for their next game on January 7th. You can stream the games on ESPN+, or you can listen to the games on 1290 WIRL.