Carbondale, IL. The Braves Braves 21-8 (14-4) scratched and clawed their way back for a road win against the Southern Illinois Salukis 20-9 (12-6).
Game Recap
Bradley and SIU met to do battle in Carbondale, Il. Both BU and SIU came into the game aiming for a chance at the number one seed in the MVC Tournament which looms on the horizon. This game closely resembled the initial meeting in Peoria just over two weeks ago with defenses reigning supreme. Neither team found a rhythm on offense, and as a result, a low scoring affair ensued.
Bradley came out of the gates hot, scoring nine of the games first 11 points.
As the first half wore on, both teams continued to suffocate each other on the defensive end with a total of 25 points scored in the game's first 15 minutes.
Rienk Mast got things going for Bradley headed into the half with a 3-point basket off an assist from
Connor Hickman. Mast finished with 13 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Those five assists tie a career high for the Bradley big man, previous high against Illinois State. BU lead into the halftime break up 26-24.
Ja'Shon Henry was the catalyst for the Braves as the graduate student put up 12 points and 5 rebounds to help push BU over the finish line. Henry now just needs 10 more points to claim 1,000 for his career. Bradley was able to hold SIU from obtaining a lead for the most of the game until midway through the second half. SIU's largest lead was two points.
With the game nearing it's conclusion, we were tied up at 40. This left the chance for
Zek Montgomery to have his moment to shine as 90 seconds remained with BU in possession of the ball. Montgomery turned downhill and was able to throw his layup off the window, resulting in an AND-1. Montgomery was effective for BU in the second half and was able to collect 9 points, 1 block, 1 steal and 1 assist. SIU would have a chance to answer, but
Rienk Mast would have the last laugh, connecting on a 3-pointer and drawing the foul to put Bradley up two points.
Looking Ahead
Bradley would hold on to win after SIU's half court try was off the mark. Bradley becomes the first team to 14 MVC wins this season with Drake playing later today. BU will be back in action on Wednesday night at 7 p.m. when they travel to take on the Valparaiso Beacons in Valparaiso, IN.