Overview
In a Missouri Valley Conference showdown in Nashville, the Belmont Bruins rode a hot shooting night from guard Tyler Lundblade to an 88-78 victory over the Bradley Braves. The win improves Belmont to 13-2 on the season and 3-1 in MVC play, keeping them near the top of the conference standings and reinforcing their identity as a dangerous, perimeter-oriented team.
Key Performances
Tyler Lundblade was the standout performer, finishing with 25 points on a precise 7-for-11 effort from three-point range and a perfect 4-for-4 from the free-throw line. His ability to stretch the floor opened up driving lanes and createduentas for teammates in the Bruins’ backcourt and wings. Beyond Lundblade, Belmont received solid contributions across the roster, with timely baskets from guards and interior play that helped sustain the lead when Bradley mounted runs.
Bradley’s offense found some rhythm, but Belmont’s defense clamped down in critical moments. The Braves fought to close gaps in the second half, but the Bruins maintained a balanced attack, benefiting from efficient ball movement and decisive shot selection. The result highlighted Belmont’s willingness to win with a multi-faceted approach—heavy on perimeter scoring while still getting enough inside production to keep Bradley honest.
Turning Points
A key stretch in the second half saw Belmont snapping Bradley’s momentum with a sequence of high-trajectory three-pointers and a few crucial stops on the defensive end. That stretch not only extended the lead but also gave Belmont the confidence to play with tempo and purpose. Bradley, never fully able to string together a sustained run, had to settle for incremental gains rather than reclaiming control of the game, as Belmont maintained discipline on both ends of the floor.
What It Means for Belmont
This win reinforces Belmont’s standing as a formidable squad within the MVC. The Bruins have built a reputation for efficient guard play and dynamic three-point shooting, a combination that can carry them through the gauntlet of conference play. With a record of 13-2 overall and 3-1 in the MVC, Belmont is proving it can win with firepower on the perimeter and timely defense when it matters most.
Head coach remarks, team chemistry, and depth were evident in Belmont’s ability to push lead changes away from Bradley and keep the pace under control. Lundblade’s performance provided the spark, but the Bruins’ depth ensured the offense remained unpredictable, making it difficult for opponents to key in on a single threat.
Bradley’s Perspective
Bradley entered the game looking to capitalize on their own scoring options, yet Belmont’s long-range shooting challenged the Braves to extend protection beyond the arc. While Bradley’s offense showed resilience, clean execution and defensively disciplined positioning by Belmont limited the high-percentage looks Bradley needed to swing momentum in their favor. As the season progresses, Bradley will likely emphasize sectional runs and defensive adjustments to counter Belmont’s spread-based attack.
Looking Ahead
Belmont now heads into a stretch of MVC play where consistency will be key. The Bruins will want to replicate this balanced performance—productive guard play, sharp three-point shooting, and solid defense—against upcoming conference foes. For Bradley, the setback should serve as a teaching moment: identify gaps in transition defense and execute more efficiently when the game remains within reach.
Bottom Line
Tyler Lundblade’s 25-point night underscored his role as a trusted threat from deep, helping Belmont claim an 88-78 win over Bradley. The Bruins’ ability to win with three-point shooting and disciplined defense bodes well for their MVC prospects as the season unfolds.
