Bradley women’s basketball kicked off the 2026-27 season with a gritty, competitive loss to Big Ten power Wisconsin, 71-65, on Tuesday night. The match marked the head coaching debut for Chaia Meier, who guided the Braves to a spirited effort against a superior opponent in front of 2,541 fans at the Kohl Center. Despite the final score, the game showcased the resilience Meier aims to instill in her new squad, as Bradley kept the contest tight well into the final minutes.
Braves fight to tie late but fall 71-65 as Chaia Meier launches new era in Madison
The Braves demonstrated significant offensive firepower in the fourth quarter, with Lila Posthuma and Inia Jones draining crucial three-pointers to shrink Wisconsin’s lead to just two points. The momentum shifted dramatically when Alice Veilleaux recorded a key steal with 52 seconds remaining, setting up Ellie McDermid for a layup that tied the game at 65-65. This sequence highlighted Bradley’s ability to execute under pressure and challenge a top-tier Big Ten defense in their season opener.
However, Wisconsin sealed the victory with a decisive six-point run in the closing seconds, preventing Bradley from securing a draw or an upset. Meier remained optimistic about the team’s trajectory, stating, “We knew if played our game, we could make this a close one. It just came down to them making a really great shot.” The result sets a high benchmark for the Braves as they navigate the remainder of the 2026-27 campaign under new leadership.
Source: Yahoo Sports
