Bradley’s men’s basketball team will get an extended holiday break as the program’s first COVID-19 positive tests of the season have prompted the Braves to postpone their first conference games of the new year.The Missouri Valley Conference announced Wednesday the two games scheduled for Sunday and Monday between Bradley and Loyola at Carver Arena have been postponed.
The Valley said Bradley had positive coronavirus test results among its Tier I personnel, which includes student-athletes, coaches, managers and staff.
The Braves are 6-3 ahead of MVC play, but have been off since a 54-53 loss at Missouri on Dec. 22.
The coronavirus has forced college basketball teams throughout the county to shift their schedules by postponing and canceling games so that those infected with COVID can isolate and prevent the virus’ spread.
“MVC athletically-related activities will take place only to the extent permitted by local environments and applicable national, state, local and institutional guidelines in order to safeguard the health and safety of participants, staff and fans,” the league said in a statement.
The Valley also announced Bradley’s next scheduled games, set for Jan. 9-10 at Northern Iowa, were both pushed back one day.
The Braves’ first MVC series scheduled for Dec. 28-29 at Valparaiso was previously postponed due to coronavirus cases reported in Valparaiso’s men’s basketball program. Those game have not been rescheduled.
Valparaiso’s COVID outbreak also prompted the league to postpone its Jan. 2-3 games against Illinois State University at Redbird Arena. Those game also have not been rescheduled.
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