NORMAL — The anticipation for Illinois State's first basket against Bradley is usually high. Those sitting in the ISU student section can't wait to let the confetti fly at Redbird Arena.
That traditional celebration won't be happening Wednesday when the Braves and Redbirds hook up in an 8 p.m. Missouri Valley Conference game.
With no fans being allowed into Redbird Arena (or Carver Arena in Peoria for the Feb. 17 rematch) because of COVID-19 safety protocols, the heated ISU-Bradley rivalry won't feel quite the same.
Or will it?
"I say this every year and it's true.