Bradley advances in NIT after defeating George Mason

In Fairfax, Virginia, on March 21, 2025, the Bradley Braves triumphed over the George Mason Patriots with a score of 75-67, securing their place in the quarterfinals of the National Invitation Tournament (NIT). This second-round match witnessed a strong performance from Corey Thomas, who contributed significantly to his team's success by scoring 21 points off the bench and grabbing 11 rebounds, demonstrating his impact despite not starting the game. Christian Davis also excelled, finishing the game with 21 points, including an impressive five three-pointers out of eleven attempts. The game started evenly, but Bradley took the lead with 7:38 left in the first half. They maintained a solid advantage, leading 37-28 at halftime. The team showcased strong offensive and defensive skills throughout the match, ranking third in the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) for points allowed per game. Meanwhile, George Mason found themselves in a difficult position despite their solid season, which included a strong Atlantic 10 performance with a 17-4 record. K.D. Johnson led the Patriots with 16 points, supported by Darius Maddox, who added 15 points. Both teams showcased competitive spirits, but Bradley’s consistency in scoring and defense proved pivotal. With a shooting percentage of 46.8% and a solid rebounding effort, especially from Thomas, the Braves effectively neutralized the Patriots' scoring efforts. The game concluded with Bradley sealing their victory, setting them up for the next stage against Chattanooga. The emergence of Thomas as a key player off the bench highlights the depth of the Braves’ squad, which is allowing them to perform well in the tournament. This loss marked a challenging end to a successful season for George Mason, who will need to regroup and analyze their strategy moving forward. Meanwhile, Bradley's victory not only boosts their confidence but also keeps their hopes alive for further success in the NIT, as they aim to capitalize on their recent momentum through the tournament.