Bradley opened its 2026-27 season with an 85-41 rout of Monmouth College in Peoria, pulling away with a mid-first-half surge and extending its lead after halftime. The Braves’ depth, rebounding and pressure defense fueled the lopsided win.

By the Numbers
  • Final score: Bradley 85, Monmouth 41.
  • Bradley outscored Monmouth 48-22 in the second half.
  • Ben Thornbrue led Bradley with 17 points, shooting 7-of-9 from the field.
  • Bradley had 33 bench points, a 45-25 rebounding edge and forced 17 turnovers.
  • The Braves scored 28 points off turnovers and 27 on fast breaks.
Yes, But

Monmouth struggled to find its offense, shooting 32.6% from the field and 22.2% from 3-point range. Bradley also started slowly, shooting 41.9% in the first half before improving to 52.8% after the break.

What's Next

Bradley hosts Pacific on Nov. 7 at Carver Arena. The game is scheduled to stream on ESPN+.

Bottom Line

Bradley’s balanced scoring and defensive pressure made a decisive opening statement, though the season’s first test is only a starting point.