Bradley Braves get boost from ex-player during OT win

Former Bradley player's visit helped inspire team to victory over Missouri Valley leader

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The Bradley Braves men's basketball team received a surprise visit from a former player during their overtime victory against the Missouri Valley Conference leader on Monday. The ex-player's presence and words of encouragement helped motivate the team to pull off the upset win.

Why it matters

The Bradley Braves are a local college basketball team with a loyal fanbase in Peoria, Illinois. Their overtime win against the conference leader was an important victory that could help boost the team's momentum and confidence as they continue their season.

The details

The Bradley Braves were locked in a close game against the Missouri Valley Conference leader when a former player, who has been playing professionally in Finland, unexpectedly showed up to watch the game. The ex-player spoke with the team during a timeout, offering words of encouragement and inspiration. The Braves then went on to win the game in overtime, pulling off the upset victory.

  • The game took place on Monday, February 10, 2026.

The players

Bradley Braves

The men's basketball team of Bradley University, a Division I program located in Peoria, Illinois.

Former Bradley player

An unidentified former player for the Bradley Braves who has been playing professionally in Finland for the past six months.

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What they’re saying

“I've been playing in Finland the last six months,”

— Former Bradley player (wn.com)

The takeaway

The unexpected visit and words of encouragement from a former Bradley Braves player helped inspire the current team to pull off an important overtime victory against the conference leader, demonstrating the lasting impact that alumni can have on a college basketball program.