Bradley Athletics Mourns the Passing of Joe Stowell

Peoria, IL -- Bradley University is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Joe Stowell, a true icon of Bradley Athletics whose connection to the University spanned more than 7 decades. Stowell's lifelong dedication to Bradley and the game of basketball leaves a legacy unmatched in program history.

Bradley University President James Shadid penned his own reflection about Coach Stowell and the impact Coach had on generations of Bradley Braves. You can read his words here.

Statement from Dr. Chris Reynolds, Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics

"Joe Stowell was Bradley Basketball. For more than 70 years, he gave his heart, time, and talent to this University. As a player, coach, administrator, broadcaster, and global ambassador for the game, Joe embodied everything it means to be a Brave. His impact spans generations, and his influence will continue to shape our program and our community for years to come. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and all who were fortunate enough to know him."

Stowell's affiliation with Bradley began as a men's basketball student-athlete from 1947 to 1950. A junior when Bradley joined the Missouri Valley Conference in 1948, he helped lead the Braves to the 1949-50 MVC title and appearances in the championship games of both the NIT and the NCAA Tournament.

His impact extended far beyond his playing days. Stowell served Bradley in nearly every imaginable role: assistant coach, head coach, assistant athletic director, and beloved radio analyst. Across 63 years of service, he was directly connected to more than 1,500 Bradley Basketball games.

As head coach of the men's basketball program from 1965 to 1978, Stowell compiled a 197-147 record, finishing second in program history in wins and seasons coached. His 1968 team led the nation in field goal percentage at .524. He later guided the Bradley Women's Basketball program from 1981 to 1983, helping transition the team into NCAA Division I while leading the nation in scoring in 1982 at 87.9 points per game. He is believed to be the only coach to lead both a men's and women's team to the top of a major national statistical category.

Stowell's influence reached far beyond Peoria. He conducted basketball clinics on five continents and in 16 countries, and served as an assistant coach for the Egyptian Men's National Team, which captured the 1983 African Championship and competed in the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. In 2019, the MVC honored his extraordinary contributions by presenting him with the prestigious Paul Morrison Award at its annual Hall of Fame ceremony during Arch Madness.

Joe Stowell was more than a coach, broadcaster, and ambassador. He was the living bridge between generations of Bradley Basketball, a steward of its history, and a champion of its future.

Bradley Athletics extends its heartfelt condolences to the Stowell family, former student-athletes, colleagues, and the countless members of Braves Nation whose lives he touched. His legacy will forever remain woven into the fabric of Bradley University.