Foster Soars, but Bradley Banishes Redbird Win Streak

Image courtesy of Redbird Athletics

In a 48-45 Saturday night battle, the Illinois State Redbirds fell short to the Bradley Braves for the second time this season. Both teams struggled in three-point land.

The first half was filled with physicality and not much offense as the game was tied at 21 points a piece. ISU shot 0-8 and the Braves shot 2-15 from beyond the arc. The Redbirds were able to win the rebound battle 24-17. Myles Foster led the way in the first half with four defensive rebounds and three offensive rebounds.

The Redbirds continued to struggle with making the shot fall in the second half. Coach Pedon’s squad went almost nine minutes without a basket in the middle of the second half. However, a three-pointer from Luke Kasbuke made it a one-point game with 27 seconds left in the half. After two made free throws by Christian Davis, the Redbirds had a chance to the tie game. Unfortunately, Malachi Poindexter’s game-tying attempt would be no good.

Despite the defeat, Foster had a historic night as he recorded 16 rebounds. The senior forward recorded six of those rebounds on the offensive side of the ball. It was a low-scoring game for Foster due to the double teams Head Coach Brian Wardle was sending his way. Coach Pedon addressed this after the game, stating Foster has been getting more attention from other teams throughout the season.

“Myles has gotten better and better as the year has gone on,” Pedon said. “We’ve faced double teams of all kinds. Foster has improved. He’s helped us generate shots and scoring opportunities by playing inside basketball. It’s hard with their length. But, he’s growing and he’s learning. He’s getting a lot of attention. When you’re not making threes, he’s going to get even more attention.”

Overall, it was a difficult night for the Redbirds on the offensive side of the ball. Johnny Kinziger had a team-high of ten points but shot 2/10 from the field. Overall the team shot 28.3% from the field and 13.0% from the three-point line. Despite the setback, Kinziger explained how the mentality will remain strong for the rest of the season.

“Just have to shake it off,” Kinziger said. “We’re coming to the end of the season. Everyone has bad games where they don’t shoot the ball well. I think it’s important for the whole team to be frustrated about this one tonight and then move on tomorrow and look forward.”

This defeat sends ISU back to under .500% as their record falls to 14-15. The squad will be back in action on Wednesday as they host the Missouri State Bears at CEFCU arena.