Peoria, IL -- The Bradley Braves 14-3 (5-1 MVC) remain in first place of the MVC following late game heroics against the UIC Flames 10-6 (3-3 MVC).
Looking Back
Bradley won a tight one against UIC with a 61-60 victory in a closely contested MVC matchup in Chicago, IL. Bradley was led by Zek Montgomery, who scored 15 points while contributing 3 rebounds and 2 assists in 33 minutes of play. Duke Deen also had a solid outing with 14 points, including 4 three-pointers. Christian Davis recorded a double-double with 10 points and a team-high 11 rebounds in a strong effort in the paint. Bradley shot 35.3% from the field and 66.7% from the free-throw line, which proved crucial during a cold shooting night from deep.
On the other side, UIC was paced by Jordan Mason with 15 points, and Sasa Ciani contributed 11 points and 4 rebounds. Ahmad Henderson II also chipped in with 13 points and 3 rebounds off the bench. UIC struggled with their three-point shooting, finishing just 8.7% from beyond the arc, but they kept the game tight thanks to strong performances in the paint (32 points) and their ability to get to the free-throw line (14-23, 60.9%).
Bradley made 18 field goals on 51 attempts, with 7 of those coming from beyond the arc. UIC, conversely, made 22 of 62 shots and only connected on 2 of 23 from three-point range. The game was characterized by tough defense, with both teams combining for 18 turnovers and a total of 13 steals. UIC led for the majority of the game, with only two ties and two lead changes taking place throughout the contest. However, the Braves made their runs when it mattered most, erasing a 13-point second-half deficit and another 7-point deficit with 1:50 left in the game. This marks the second time this season the Braves have erased a 7-point lead or larger with less than three minutes left to come away with a road win in Valley play.
It's not over until it's over
For the second time in 10 days, Bradley erased a 7-point or greater deficit with less than three minutes remaining. Bradley's win probability in both games was less than 13% and 5%, and in both games, Bradley was playing with at least one starter fouled out.
What's next?
The Braves will be back in action Wednesday night when they host Indiana State for the second meeting between the two programs this season. Bradley won the first meeting 90-89 in overtime in Terre Haute. The game will be available for streaming on ESPN+ with tipoff set for 7:00 PM CST.