In a thrilling start to their Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) season, the Bradley Braves delivered an unforgettable moment at Carver Arena in Peoria, Illinois. Guard Duke Deen's nearly full-court buzzer beater electrified the crowd and secured a 36-30 lead for the Braves over Valparaiso at halftime on December 29th. The game showcased intense competition, with both teams demonstrating remarkable skill and determination. Despite trailing by as much as seven points early in the first half, Bradley managed to turn things around through strategic plays and key performances from players like Zek Montgomery and Connor Dillon. This victory marks the beginning of a challenging MVC schedule for the league-favorite Braves.
Duke Deen's Miracle Shot Caps Off Exciting First Half
In the heart of winter, under the bright lights of Carver Arena, the Bradley Braves faced off against Valparaiso in what would become a memorable matchup. With just 1.8 seconds left in the first half, Valparaiso’s Isaiah Shaw hit his second free throw, giving the Beacons hope. However, it was guard Duke Deen who stole the show. Taking the inbound pass, Deen launched a three-pointer from beyond the free throw line, connecting with the basket in a spectacular fashion that sent shockwaves through the arena. The Braves surged ahead, leading 36-30 at halftime.
The game began with Valparaiso taking control, building a seven-point lead early on. Key players for Valparaiso, including Cooper Schwieger and Kaspar Sepp, contributed significantly during this period. For Bradley, guards Duke Deen and Zek Montgomery struggled initially, remaining scoreless through the first ten minutes. However, Montgomery found his rhythm late in the half, scoring eight points in a decisive 10-2 run that included three consecutive layups. Connor Dillon also made significant contributions, hitting two crucial three-pointers off the bench.
Bradley’s resurgence was timely, as they capitalized on strong defensive plays and offensive rebounds. Darius Hannah and Christian Davis kept the Braves in contention early on, delivering their team's first 15 points. By the end of the half, the Braves had not only closed the gap but established a commanding lead, setting the stage for what promised to be an exciting continuation of the game.
This performance highlights the Braves' resilience and adaptability, qualities that will be essential as they face 19 straight MVC games. As the favored team in the conference, Bradley has set a high bar for themselves, and this opening win underscores their potential to dominate the season.
From a journalist's perspective, Duke Deen's half-court shot serves as a powerful reminder of the unpredictable nature of sports. It demonstrates how a single moment can shift momentum and galvanize a team. For readers, this game offers a glimpse into the intensity and excitement of college basketball, where every play counts and unexpected heroes can emerge at any moment. The Braves' ability to overcome early challenges and secure a lead showcases their depth and readiness for the competitive MVC season ahead.