Preview: Bradley Braves at Belmont Bruins NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Interstat) — A pivotal early-season Missouri Valley Conference men’s basketball showdown is set for New Year’s Day when the Belmont Bruins host the Bradley Braves on Thursday at Curb Events Center. Both teams enter 2026 with strong records and momentum, making this one of the league’s most anticipated January matchups. Belmont (12-2) looks to defend its home court and rebound from a narrow road loss, while Bradley (10-4) aims to extend a five-game winning streak. The Bruins’ two losses came by a combined nine points, including a heartbreaking 81-80 overtime defeat at Indiana State on Dec. 29. In that game, guard Tyler Lundblade scored 26 points in 41 minutes, continuing his run as Belmont’s offensive catalyst. Over his last six games, Lundblade is averaging 16.7 points. The Braves, meanwhile, are rolling after a 76-68 home win over Evansville on Monday. Guard Jaquan Johnson has been instrumental during their streak, scoring 20 or more points in five consecutive games. He poured in 22 points with five assists against Evansville, following a 20-point, five-rebound, four-assist performance against Southern Illinois on Dec. 21. Bradley’s recent success includes a notable 108-99 triple-overtime road victory at Indiana State on Dec. 18, the same team that just edged Belmont. This contest features a contrast in styles. Bradley brings a high-scoring attack, averaging 80.1 points per game, fueled by Johnson’s backcourt prowess. Belmont counters with a balanced and efficient offense that has topped 80 points in seven games this season, supported by a defense allowing just 70.1 points per contest. The game will serve as a key early barometer in the MVC race. Following this matchup, Bradley visits Murray State on Jan. 4, while Belmont hosts Southern Illinois on the same day. Tip-off is scheduled for Thursday afternoon in Nashville.