Belmont Basketball Stunned as Bradley Braves Claim Overtime Victory

PEORIA – In a monumental upset, the Bradley Braves outlasted the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) leading Belmont Bruins 95-84 in a thrilling overtime battle Monday night at Carver Arena. Jaquan Johnson spearheaded the Braves’ attack, igniting a second-half surge with a barrage of three-pointers and then guiding them through a dominant extra period.

A Game of Runs and Resilience

The Bradley Braves (16-9, 9-5) entered the contest hoping to make a statement against the high-flying Belmont Bruins (22-3, 12-2), who have been commanding attention throughout the MVC. And a statement they made! The game was a back-and-forth affair, characterized by pivotal runs from both sides.

A late three-pointer from Alex Huibregtse tied the game at 80-80 in the closing seconds, forcing the contest into overtime. Once there, the Braves seized control, fueled by Johnson’s clutch performance.

Johnson’s Explosive Second Half

Bradley exploded out of the halftime break, racing to a 40-38 lead thanks to three early three-pointers from point guard Jaquan Johnson. The Braves continued to find their range, shooting 5 of 6 from beyond the arc in the second half. A.J. Smith’s offensive rebound and assist to Timoty van der Knaap for a layup extended the Braves’ lead to 52-46.

Bruins’ Strengths and Bradley’s Response

Belmont entered the game boasting the nation’s sixth-longest active win streak (nine games) and tied for the fifth-most wins overall. They also lead the nation in true road victories with 10, averaging a remarkable 15-point victory margin on the road. Furthermore, Belmont is just the fifth team in MVC history to reach 20 wins by January 31st, a feat previously achieved by Wichita State (2014), Bradley (1986), Creighton (2012), and Northern Iowa (2015).

Despite Belmont’s impressive resume, Bradley remained undeterred. A dunk from Timoty van der Knaap at the end of the first half narrowed the deficit to 33-31 at halftime. Early foul trouble for Bradley’s centers, Ahmet Jonovic and Kai Yu, presented a challenge, but the Braves adapted.

Key Moments and Standout Performances

Alex Huibregtse proved crucial, knocking down a three-pointer with 27 seconds remaining in regulation to force overtime. Dietrich Richardson’s drive to the rim was then blocked, but Belmont’s Noyes responded with a corner three, briefly taking the lead. However, Bradley quickly regained control in the extra period.

Tyler Lundblade, Belmont’s leading scorer, struggled in the first half but found his rhythm later in the game. However, it wasn’t enough to overcome Bradley’s relentless effort and clutch shooting.

Looking Ahead

The Bradley Braves face tough upcoming challenges with home games against Murray State and Illinois State. This victory over Belmont serves as a significant confidence boost as they navigate the remainder of the MVC season. This win demonstrates the Braves’ potential to contend for the conference title and secure a coveted spot in the NCAA Tournament.

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Source: Peoria Journal Star