[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 50 (Thursday, March 21, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E333]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 CONGRATULATING THE BRADLEY UNIVERSITY BRAVES MEN'S BASKETBALL TEAM ON 
                 WINNING THE MISSOURI VALLEY CONFERENCE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. CHERI BUSTOS

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 21, 2019

  Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Bradley 
University Men's Basketball Team on capturing the Missouri Valley 
Conference title, earning them a spot in the 2019 NCAA Men's Basketball 
Tournament.
  The Braves defeated Northern Iowa University in St. Louis by a score 
of 57-54 to capture an automatic bid to the NCAA tournament and finish 
off a stellar Missouri Valley Conference tournament. Bradley pulled off 
an outstanding comeback in the second half after trailing by as many as 
18 points with only 17 minutes left in regulation. This title is the 
first the Braves won since 1988 and will be their first NCAA Tournament 
appearance since 2006, where they made a thrilling run to the Sweet 
Sixteen. As a former athlete, I understand the amount of hard work and 
commitment it takes to put together such an outstanding season. They 
are an example of the importance of dedication and a strong work ethic. 
I am proud there is such young talent in our community, and to see them 
represent Peoria so well throughout the state and country. I will be 
rooting them on in the NCAA Tournament and wish them continued success.
  It is because of dedicated leaders such as the Bradley University 
Braves Men's Basketball Team that I am especially proud to serve 
Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to 
again formally congratulate the Bradley University Braves Men's 
Basketball Team on their Missouri Valley Conference title, and wish 
them luck in the NCAA Tournament.

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