The Bradley Braves are marching into the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) Championship game after a thrilling victory over the Valparaiso Crusaders, winning 70-65. This hard-fought game showcased Bradley’s determination and skill as they prepare for their next challenge against the top-seeded Drake Bulldogs.
Game Information
Set to be played on March 9th, 2025, at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis, this championship game begins at 1:15 PM CST. It promises to be an exciting encounter as the #2 seeded Braves, currently boasting a commendable record of 26 wins and 7 losses (15-5 in MVC), take on #1 seeded Drake, who holds a record of 29-3 (17-3 in MVC). This matchup marks the third meeting between these fierce rivals this season, with each previous match favoring the road team. Fans are eager to see if the trend continues!
Bradley’s Road to the Final
- Bradley triumphed over Murray State and Valparaiso to secure their place in the final.
- Darius Hannah shone in the semifinal against Valparaiso, scoring 16 points and grabbing 12 rebounds, leading the team’s comeback.
- The Braves once faced an 11-point deficit during the first half but rallied back with impressive teamwork.
In a dramatic turn, trailing by 11 points, Bradley made a strong comeback, showcasing their resilience. Darius Hannah’s key contributions and a pivotal three-point play by Jaquan Johnson helped turn the tide in favor of the Braves.
Rivalry Heats Up
As these two teams prepare to meet again, it’s important to remember that this isn’t just any game. Bradley and Drake have a long history of matchups. The Braves have the upper hand in their all-time series, leading with 94 wins over 74 losses against Drake. In MVC Tournament showdowns, Bradley leads the series 9-6. Yet, with the Bulldogs’ talented roster and their performance this season, they are not to be underestimated.
Key Players to Watch
Both teams feature standout players that fans will surely be keeping an eye on:
- Darius Hannah: His recent performances highlight his potential as a game-changer for Bradley.
- Duke Deen: With 260 career three-pointers under his belt, he is just shy of the MVC record, making him a key player to watch.
- Bennett Stirtz: The MVC Player of the Year and star of the Bulldogs, he averages 19 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.4 rebounds per game.
As the championship game approaches, the performances of these individuals could very well determine the outcome, propelling their team to victory!
Broadcast Information
For fans looking to catch the action live, the championship game will be aired on CBS, with commentary from the dynamic duo of Kevin Harlan and Dan Bonner. This exciting matchup will not only determine this year’s MVC champion but also grant the winner an automatic spot in the NCAA Tournament. Such stakes simply add to the excitement of the showdown!
A Promising Future
With the anticipation building, both teams are ready to give it their all for a shot at glory. The Bradley Braves aim not just to win the championship title but also to claim a victory against the Bulldogs after falling short in their previous encounters this season. The road ahead is challenging, but with determination, teamwork, and the support of their passionate fans, the Braves are aiming for nothing less than victory in this prestigious event!
