McLean County Times

The Illinois State Redbirds are set to face off against the Bradley Braves in a much-anticipated rivalry game, known as the Battle for 74. The match will take place on Saturday, January 25, at Carver Arena in Peoria, Illinois, with tip-off scheduled for 1 PM. The game will be broadcast on CBS Sports Network and covered by the Illinois State Radio Network.

Both teams rank among the top five three-point shooting teams nationally, with Bradley holding first place and Illinois State in fifth. Over recent seasons, Illinois State has made significant improvements in their performance metrics, climbing 334 position rankings since last season and achieving a .400 three-point field goal percentage. This ranks them fifth nationally.

Illinois State forward Chase Walker is noted for drawing fouls at a rate of 7.7 per 40 minutes, one of the highest rates in NCAA basketball this season. Freshman Jack Daugherty has also made his mark with 37 three-pointers so far this season.

On the other hand, Bradley comes into the game with momentum from winning its last four games against UIC, Indiana State, Murray State, and Belmont. Christian Davis led their most recent victory over Belmont with 19 points and a game-high of ten rebounds.

This rivalry game promises an exciting contest between two teams excelling in offensive efficiency and shooting accuracy.