Shockers Stop Bradley

      Bradley had been showing real promise in the Missouri Valley Conference, losing by 10 or less in all the games they played. Being only defeated in the MVC, the Braves were looking for their first win. Tonight, however, they had no chance. The Shockers put up 8 unanswered points until a foul by Williams allowed Bradley to get back in the game. Bradley went on 6-2 run, but with a foul from the Braves' Thompson, the Shockers put up 2 free throws and never looked back. The Shockers played excellent defense going up 18-8. The Braves tried to fight back, but with WSU's strong defense and Braves' inability to make their shots, WSU would not be stopped. Wichita State led by 15 at the half, 39-24. Stutz was taken out of the game to rest. Stutz helped in this half by putting up 10 points in the half with 6 rebounds and two fouls. Carl was in good form, getting after the ball and putting up 6 points. Kyles' awesome dunk, lay up, and 3 pointer all contributed to the lead. Wichita State was 13 for 22 in their field goals, shooting 59.1%, 3 for 7 from 3 point range, 18 rebounds, and 3 steals. Bradley was 10-28 in their field goals, shooting 35.7%, 1 for 5 from 3 point range, 11 rebounds, and 5 steals.
      The second half was more of the Stutz show. Bradley was unable to stop the big men down low and with our perimeter shooters making shots, the Braves' defense was unable to get a break. Stutz added 6 more points and 5 rebounds to become the Shockers' players of the game. The weapons that come from Wichita State's bench cause many teams to fear them. It surprises me that for the depth in WSU's bench, the shooters, and defense that the team has easily gained entry into the "Big Dance." (The Shockers are currently considered an "on the bubble" team for the NCAA tournament.) The Shockers ended up being the only team to have Bradley's number, defeating the Braves 78-41.