The I-74 Rivalry Returns to CEFCU Arena in 2026
Written by Adam Tichler on January 17, 2026
Image Courtesy of Redbird_MBB on X
NORMAL, Ill. – Illinois State Basketball welcomes rival Bradley to CEFCU Arena for the team’s first matchup of the season, Saturday at 1 p.m.
The Redbirds are looking to end their three-game losing streak by ending Bradley’s three-game winning streak. ISU comes into the matchup with a 12-6 record and 4-3 in conference play. The Braves enter with a 13-6 record and are 6-2 in conference play.
Leading the way for ISU is big man Chase Walker, averaging about 14 points per game and coming down with 5 rebounds. Other scorers for the Redbirds are Johnny Kinziger with 12, Ty Pence, and Ty’Reek Coleman, both averaging around 10.
Bradley’s leading scorer is Jaquan Johnson, who averages 18 points a night. Two other double-digit scores for the Braves are both averaging 11 points in Alex Huibregtse and Demarion Burch.
If you are unable to attend today’s contest, catch all the action live on 103.3 wznd or wznd.com where Connor Allyn and Nathan Cihak have the call.
To stay up to date on Illinois State Men’s Basketball, follow along here on WZND.com
