Belmont vs Bradley Picks and Prediction – 2/6/2025

Belmont enters this matchup with a 15-8 record, including a 7-5 mark in conference play. The Bruins are coming off a tough 80-75 loss to Evansville, marking a second consecutive defeat. Bradley holds an 18-5 record and is 9-3 in conference action but is also looking to bounce back from an 83-69 loss to Northern Iowa. These two teams last met on January 21, with Bradley taking an 89-77 victory. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

Belmont’s offense has been productive, averaging 81.4 points per game while shooting 46.6% from the field. Forward Jonathan Pierre leads the scoring effort with 14.3 points per game while also contributing 6.3 rebounds. Guard Carter Whitt is the playmaker on offense, averaging 5.4 assists per game. The Bruins push the pace and move the ball effectively, averaging 17.3 assists per game, but turnovers and defensive lapses have cost them in recent losses.

Defensively, Belmont has struggled, allowing 78.8 points per game. The team has trouble containing perimeter scorers and closing out possessions, ranking slightly below average in rebounding with 35.9 boards per game. Carter Whitt leads in steals with 1.5 per game, while forward Sam Orme provides some interior presence with 1.0 blocks per contest. The Bruins must tighten up defensively to slow down a Bradley squad that thrives on efficient shooting.

Bradley scores 79.3 points per game while shooting 48.5% from the field. Guard Duke Deen leads the team in scoring at 13.3 points per game, with forward Darius Hannah contributing 5.5 rebounds per contest. The Braves excel at executing in the half-court and protecting the ball, but recent offensive performances have been inconsistent.

Defensively, Bradley has been strong, allowing just 69.0 points per game. The Braves force turnovers and disrupt passing lanes, averaging 7.3 steals per game, led by Jaquan Johnson with 1.6 steals per contest. Bradley’s ability to defend inside and out makes them a difficult matchup for Belmont, and shot-blocker Christian Davis adds a presence in the paint with 1.1 blocks per game.

Bradley’s defensive edge and ability to control tempo make them the stronger team in this matchup. Belmont’s scoring ability keeps them competitive, but defensive struggles will be an issue against a Bradley squad that is efficient from the field. Expect Bradley to take care of business at home. Final Score Prediction: Bradley Braves win 81-74.