Peoria, IL -- The Bradley Braves 18-3 (9-1 MVC) win the first leg of the regular season series with the Illinois State Redbirds 12-9 (4-6 MVC).
Looking Back
The rivalry continued and didn't disappoint as Bradley defeated Illinois State 61-57 in an intense MVC showdown at Carver Arena on Saturday afternoon. The Braves, now 18-3 overall and 9-1 in conference play, held off a determined Redbirds team, who fell to 12-9 on the season and 4-6 in the MVC.
Illinois State had difficulty getting into a rhythm offensively, finishing the game shooting just 31% from the field. Johnny Kinziger was the standout for the Redbirds, finishing with 16 points, 3 rebounds, and 5 assists, and leading the team in scoring. Ty Pence gave Illinois State a much-needed boost off the bench, contributing 12 points on a perfect 4-4 shooting, including 2-2 from beyond the arc. However, Illinois State's shooting , particularly from deep, were an issue as they connected on just 10 of 34 three-pointers (29.4%) and had trouble converting in the paint, for 14 points.
On the other hand, Bradley found more balance in its offensive attack. The Braves had four players in double figures, with Duke Deen leading the way with 11 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists. Zek Montgomery also chipped in 11 points and 6 rebounds, Christian Davis played a solid all-around game, contributing 10 points, 7 rebounds, and 1 assist.
One of the most noticeable differences in the game was Bradley's ability to capitalize at the charity stripe. The Braves went 15-17 from the free-throw line (88.2%), with 13 of those makes coming in the second half. This sharp shooting at the line proved crucial, especially late in the game when Illinois State had opportunities to rally but couldn't close the gap. Illinois State, in comparison, shot 64.7% (11-17) from the free-throw line.
Bradley owned the hard fought battle in the paint by a small margin, scoring 20 points inside compared to Illinois State's 14, BU did claw out more chances in fast-break points, 15-9. Defensively, Bradley made it difficult for Illinois State to get clean looks. The Braves applied consistent pressure, limiting the Redbirds' shooting opportunities, particularly from three-point range. Though Illinois State had moments of success—particularly in the first half, where they kept the game close by hitting 5 of 17 from deep—their lack of overall offensive consistency proved too much to overcome in the end.
The game was tight throughout, with seven lead changes and seven ties, as both teams exchanged blows back and forth. Illinois State did manage to take a brief 1-point lead in the second half, but Bradley responded with a quick 5-0 run that helped them regain control. The Redbirds had a chance to tie the game in the final minute, but missed opportunities—coupled with clutch free-throw shooting from Bradley—sealed the deal for the Braves.
Bradley's bench also played a pivotal role, contributing 17 points overall. Jaquan Johnson was a spark off the bench, scoring 7 points in 18 minutes, while Almar Atlason added 5 points in just 7 minutes of action, including a 1-2 performance from beyond the arc. Illinois State, however, received more from their bench, totaling 28 points from reserve players.
Closing Notes
With the win, the Braves have earned their 18th overall win and 9th win in conference play. BU's 9-1 MVC mark and 18-3 overall record are the best since the 1961-62 season, the 18-3 mark ties the 7th best start in program history and the 9-1 conference mark remains tied for 2nd best in BU history. Bradley will look to continue their run atop the MVC standings on Wednesday night in Peoria against UIC, while Illinois State will regroup and aim to bounce back as they look ahead to their next matchup against Belmont in Normal.