Peoria, Ill. – Bradley Women's Basketball opened Missouri Valley Conference play with a 64-47 win over Southern Illinois on Thursday at Renaissance Coliseum.
A Fast Start in RenCo
Bradley set the tone early, holding SIU to 2-for-14 shooting in the first quarter and taking a 10-7 lead after one. The Braves built separation in the second quarter behind strong interior play and rebounding, entering halftime up 26-18.
Standout Performances for Bradley
Mya Wardle led the Braves with 14 points and seven assists, while also adding five rebounds. Kaylen Nelson finished with 13 points and six rebounds, and Maya Foz added 10 points with five rebounds. Ellie McDermid anchored the frontcourt with 12 points and seven rebounds, and Tamia Perryman contributed 11 points and six boards as five Braves scored in double figures.
Pulling Away in the Second Half
Southern Illinois made a push in the third quarter, outscoring Bradley 18-17 to cut the margin to 43-36 entering the fourth. The Braves responded with their best quarter of the night, winning the final period 21-11 and stretching the lead to as many as 17 to close out the 64-47 victory.
Defensive Notes
Bradley's defense limited SIU to 29.5% shooting (18-for-61) and just 1-for-13 from three. The Braves also won the battle in the paint, scoring 34 points inside, and held a 47-35 edge on the glass.
Coming Up…
Bradley continues conference play next as the Braves look to build on their 1-0 start in the Missouri Valley Conference.