Game info
Where: Worthen Arena
When: 7 p.m.
How to watch/listen: ESPN3, WLBC
Coming off a disappointing loss to IUPUI Dec. 3, the Ball State men’s basketball team is looking to bounce back against Bradley Dec. 6 in the third game of their six-game home stand.
Ball State (4-4) lost whatever momentum they had from their blow out 92-52 win over IU-Kokomo Nov. 29. In a season where the Cardinals are averaging 47 percent from the field and 38 percent from the 3–point line, their numbers against IUPUI were much lower. Shooting 40 percent from the field and 31 percent from 3-point line, the Cardinals' poor shooting and defense in the second half could not handle the late surge by the Jaguars.
Head coach James Whitford said his team needs to become grittier.
"We have to be honest with each other and call a spade a spade," Whitford said. "Address it honestly, I think it starts there."
Bradley (4-4) is coming off a 91-69 loss to Nevada Dec. 3. Freshman guard Darrell Brown leads the way for the team. Brown is averaging a field goal percentage of 47 percent and is recording 13 points and two assists per game. Brown was held to two points in the teams lost to Nevada, going 1-6 from the field.
Whitford said they will have to prepare for the pressure the Bradley defense will bring.
“They have a unique style, very aggressive defensively," Whitford said.
Last year the Cardinals opened the season falling to Bradley 54-53. Ball State was led by their seniors of Bo Calhoun, Naiel Smith and Jeremiah Davis each putting up eight points. Sophomore guard Dwayne Lautier-Ogunleye gave the Cardinals trouble in the game scoring 18 points and attempting 15 free throws.
Ball State junior guard Francis Kiapway has been key for the Cardinals as of late. Kiapway has gone 12 of 22 from the 3-point line over the past three games.
Whitford said Bradley's style of play has changed this season.
The Cardinals' defense will need to lock in on a team that has increased its scoring offense by 17.1 points per game. Bradley runs an offensive scheme that prides itself on pick and rolls and driving to the basket. On average the Cardinals are giving up 73 points per game to their opponents.
Tip off is at 7 p.m. in Worthen Arena.
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