Peoria, IL -- Bradley Men's Basketball will hit the road for the first time in 2024-25 season as they head to Pullman, WA to take on the Washington State Cougars.
Game information
Bradley Braves 1-0 (0-0 MVC) at Washington State 1-0 (0-0 WCC)
Date & Time: Monday, Nov 8th, 2024 • 10:00 PM CST
Live Coverage: ESPN+ | Live Stats | Radio
Location: Beasley Coliseum
All-Time Series: WSU leads (2-0)
The Match-up
When Bradley takes the floor on Friday night in Pullman, WA, it will mark the third-ever meeting between the Braves and Cougars on the hardwood and the first time the two teams have met since 1943. Washington State leads the all-time series 2-0, with both previous games being played in Peoria. Historically, the Braves are 10-5 against teams from the West Coast Conference. Both teams showcased high-scoring performances in their opening contests, with the Braves defeating the Southeast Missouri State Redhawks 88-60 in Peoria, while Washington State held serve on their home floor, winning a thrilling 100-92 game against the Portland State Vikings.
About the Braves
There was a lot to like for Bradley supporters after game one of the 2024-25 season, as the Braves showcased their depth and multiple ways to score the ball. A notable trait of Brian Wardle's best teams has been the bench's ability to contribute just as much offensively as the starters. On Monday night, the Braves did not disappoint, with BU collecting 37 of their 88 points from the second unit. Jaquan Johnson, coming off the bench, tied for the team lead in scoring with 15 points. In fact, Johnson's 15 points marked the first time since 2015 that a Bradley freshman led the team in scoring on opening night. Almar Atlason and Christian Davis highlighted the starters, with the two combining for 28 points and 14 rebounds. The Braves were able to rotate many players into the game, with no player logging more than 30 minutes of action.
About the Cougars
Washington State was forced to push the pace against Portland State's press, resulting in a high volume of shots. However, the game did not come without its challenges. The Cougars found themselves trailing 21-5 before the first media timeout but managed to battle back and win the high-scoring affair 100-92. Cedric Coward and Isaiah Watts led the way for the Cougars, combining for 43 points and 15 rebounds. Washington State is led by David Riley, who is in his first season as head coach after three successful seasons at Eastern Washington. Riley brought four of his former players from Eastern Washington with him to Pullman, and in total, over 10 new players are on the Cougars' roster this season compared to last.
