Peoria, Ill — The Bradley Women's Basketball team will travel to Stetson University to play in the Hatter Classic where they will take on Bethune-Cookman on Dec. 19 for their final non-conference games.
Game Information
Matchup: Bradley Braves (5-4) vs. Bethune-Cookman Wildcats (2-7)
Date: Thursday, Dec. 19, 2024
Time: 12:30 p.m.
Location: Edmunds Center
Live Stats: Link
What to Look For
This non-conference matchup presents Bradley with an opportunity to rebound from back-to-back losses to Big Ten opponents Illinois and Northwestern. Bethune-Cookman, struggling early in their season, comes into the game hungry to turn things around and poses a unique challenge with their high-paced play and aggressive defense.
For Bradley, controlling the tempo and limiting turnovers will be essential against a Wildcats team that thrives on defensive pressure, averaging 9 steals per game. Offensive contributions from Soleil Barnes, who is averaging 16.4 points per game, will be critical to exploit gaps in the Wildcats' defense. Additionally, Amy O'Hara and Ellie McDermid will need to establish a presence in the paint to counter Bethune-Cookman's athleticism.
The Braves' perimeter shooting will also play a key role, as they average nearly 8 three-pointers per game. A strong showing from deep could open up driving lanes for Barnes and Tamia Perryman, providing the team with a balanced attack.
About the Braves
The Braves enter the contest at 5-4 following a competitive 67-57 loss at Northwestern. Despite the defeat, Bradley showcased encouraging signs, particularly from Barnes, who dropped 26 points. Tamia Perryman also contributed 11 points and 5 rebounds, while Amy O'Hara added 6 rebounds and 5 assists in a versatile performance.
Bradley's ability to score from long range has been a bright spot, with the team shooting 33% from beyond the arc this season. Head coach Kate Popovec-Goss will emphasize the importance of improving rebounding and reducing turnovers, areas where the Braves have struggled in recent outings.
About the Wildcats
Bethune-Cookman arrives with a 2-7 record, aiming to snap a four-game losing streak. The Wildcats are led by junior forward Asianae Nicholson, who averages 11.8 points and 9.8 rebounds per game, providing a consistent scoring option. Freshman point guard Kayla White has emerged as a playmaker, averaging 2.7 assists and 9.6 points per game.
Defensively, the Wildcats rely on their quickness and pressure to disrupt opponents, forcing 15 turnovers per contest. However, their struggles on the glass (a -8 rebounding margin on the season) have made it difficult to sustain offensive momentum.
Under head coach Sharice Payne, Bethune-Cookman is looking to build chemistry and find consistency as they navigate a challenging non-conference schedule.
