Peoria, IL – Bradley secured their third win of the season in the MVC by defeating Evansville 76-68.
Evansville started strong with a quick 13-0 lead, largely thanks to Joshua Hughes, who hit two early three-pointers. Bradley struggled in the first half and went into the locker room trailing 35-31. They managed to hold Jaquan Johnson, Bradley’s point guard, to just two points before halftime.
After the break, Bradley came out with renewed energy. They dominated the second half, outscoring Evansville 45-33. Jaquan Johnson led the charge, finishing with 22 points and nailing all nine of his free throws, especially in the closing moments to keep Evansville at bay.
Montana Wheeler and Demarion Burch stepped up with crucial baskets, while Corey Thomas was a force under the basket, grabbing 11 rebounds. The Braves also excelled in transition, scoring 21 fast-break points, and their bench contributed significantly, adding 29 points to the total.
Despite a valiant effort from Evansville, with AJ Casey scoring 21 points and Hughes contributing 14, they could not match their first-half shooting percentage. The game saw five ties and seven lead changes in a thrilling final stretch. Bradley proved resilient, responding every time Evansville made a move.
Bradley next faces Belmont on January 1, 2026, following Belmont’s narrow overtime loss to Indiana State. Fans can tune in on ESPN+ or listen via the Bradley radio broadcast.
### Insights
Experts emphasize the importance of resilience in sports. According to sports psychologist and consultant Dr. Jack Giannini, “The ability to stay focused and come back from a deficit is vital. It builds team confidence.” Johnson’s performance, in particular, reflects the mindset of a player who can thrive under pressure.
Statistics show that teams which successfully overcome a halftime deficit have a better chance of winning the game, reinforcing the idea that mental fortitude is crucial in competitive sports.
### Related Facts
The MVC has a history of close contests, often featuring dramatic comebacks. Such games not only entertain but also draw fans, as seen in social media trends during the game. Fans shared their excitement and support on platforms like Twitter, showcasing the growing enthusiasm for NCAA basketball.
For more insights, visit trusted sports analytics websites or the official MVC site for detailed stats and player performances.
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