Peoria, Ill. — The Bradley Women's Basketball team will host their first game in over a month, as they welcome the University of Evansville to begin the 2025 calendar year at Renaissance Coliseum.
Game Information
Matchup: Bradley Braves vs. University of Evansville Purple Aces
Date: Thursday, Jan. 2, 2025
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Location: Renaissance Coliseum, Peoria, Ill.
Streaming: ESPN+
Live Stats: Link
What to Watch
This matchup offers Bradley the opportunity to open Missouri Valley play on their home court. The Braves' were on the road all of December and are looking to a four-game homestand to begin conference play. The Braves will look to bounce back after a competitive opening week of league play. Known for their dynamic scoring options, Bradley will face an Evansville squad that emphasizes aggressive rebounding and transition offense.
For the Braves, guard Soleil Barnes remains the centerpiece of the offense, averaging 15.1 points per game and shooting an impressive 34% from beyond the arc. Complementing Barnes, forward Amy O'Hara will be a critical presence in the paint, where her shot-blocking ability could disrupt Evansville's interior game.
Evansville enters the contest with a renewed sense of purpose, led by sophomore forward Maggie Hartwig, who is averaging 17.7 points and 9.0 rebounds per game. Freshman guard Camryn Runner brings energy on defense, averaging a team-leading 3.2 assists per game.
About the Braves
Bradley (6-6) enters this game after a 69-61 loss against Belmont. Barnes led the way with 22 points, while Claire McDougall contributed a near double-double with 11 points and 9 rebounds. The Braves fought back in the second half, cutting the Bruins lead from 22 down to 8. The Braves' outscored their first half in both the third and fourth quarters.
About the Purple Aces
Evansville (4-8) comes into Thursday's game following a hard-fought 76-54 loss to Drake. The Purple Aces are known for their scrappy play and relentless effort on the boards, which often keeps them in close contests.
Hartwigs's leadership at the forward position has been instrumental, both in point production and on the boards. The Purple Aces will aim to slow down Bradley's fast-paced offense and control the tempo of the game.
