Game Information

• Matchup: Bradley Braves (5-3) at Northwestern Wildcats (6-2)

• Date: Sunday, Dec. 15, 2024

• Time: 2 p.m.

• Location: Welsh-Ryan Arena, Evanston, Ill.

• Streaming: Big Ten Network+

• Live Stats: Link

What to Look For
This non-conference matchup provides Bradley with another opportunity to test themselves against a Big Ten opponent after their recent loss to Illinois. The Wildcats, riding a two-game winning streak, feature a balanced offensive attack led by their backcourt duo of senior guard Sydney Parker and sophomore guard Janae Richardson. Parker's scoring ability and Richardson's playmaking will challenge the Braves' perimeter defense.

For Bradley, limiting turnovers and improving rebounding will be critical. Northwestern excels in forcing turnovers, averaging 18.3 points per game off opponent mistakes. The Wildcats also boast a strong presence in the paint, led by 6-foot-3 forward Maya Thompson, who averages 14 points and eight rebounds per game.

On offense, the Braves will look to their 3-point shooting, which has been a bright spot this season, averaging 7.5 makes per game. Guards Soleil Barnes and Ellie McDermid will be key in stretching the floor and creating opportunities against Northwestern's aggressive defense.

About the Braves
The Bradley Braves enter the game at 5-3 after a hard-fought 70-52 loss to Illinois. Despite the setback, the Braves showcased promising performances, including Soleil Barnes' 12-point, five-rebound outing and Ellie McDermid's scoring punch off the bench.

Bradley has demonstrated resilience throughout the season, highlighted by their ability to hit from beyond the arc and maintain defensive intensity. The team's focus moving forward will be on reducing turnovers and improving their interior defense, as opponents have had success scoring in the paint.

About the Wildcats
Northwestern enters the game at 6-2, coming off back-to-back wins against mid-major opponents. The Wildcats are led by senior guard Sydney Parker, who averages 16.8 points per game while shooting 42% from beyond the arc. Sophomore guard Janae Richardson has emerged as a key playmaker, averaging 4.5 assists to go along with 10 points per game.

In the frontcourt, Maya Thompson anchors Northwestern's interior presence with 14 points and eight rebounds per game. The Wildcats thrive on their defensive intensity, forcing opponents into nearly 20 turnovers per contest and converting those into transition scoring opportunities. Head coach Allison Chambers has the team playing with confidence as they prepare for the rigors of Big Ten conference play.