In a stunning display of upsets that has left the college basketball community reeling, the 11-seed Drake Bulldogs have pulled off an unthinkable victory against the 6-seed Missouri Tigers. As the final buzzer sounded, sending the Bulldogs to the next round of the NCAA Tournament, coach Darian DeVries’ words were as calm as the post-game celebrations were wild – he “expected” this result.
Game Recap and Analysis
The first round of the NCAA tournament saw a significant upset as 11th-seeded Drake defied expectations, securing a 67-57 victory over sixth-seeded Missouri. The Bulldogs, led by first-year coach Ben McCollum, showcased a dominant performance that left the basketball community in awe. Entering the game as a 5½-point underdog, Drake’s resilience and strategic gameplay proved to be the game-changers.
The Bulldogs’ Upset
The game at Intrust Bank Arena was a testament to Drake’s physical dominance, particularly on the boards. The Bulldogs controlled the paint throughout the match, outscoring Missouri 38-22 in this critical area. Junior guard Bennett Stirtz, one of four Drake starters who played Division II basketball last season, scored 21 points, leading the charge with his aggressive play. Stirtz’s performance was pivotal, as he made every shot a challenge for Missouri, often forcing tough defenses and driving to the rim.
Drake’s strategy was clear: force Missouri into a slugfest where their high-scoring, up-tempo style would be neutralized. This approach paid off as the Bulldogs built a 30-23 halftime lead, extending it to 43-28 with 12:40 remaining. Despite Missouri’s efforts to increase the tempo and close the gap, Drake’s defense held strong. The Tigers managed a 12-2 run, closing within 52-51 with 4:28 left, but Drake’s composure and poise sealed the victory. A 15-6 run over the final 4:02 saw Tavion Banks, another key player with 15 points and nine rebounds, score seven crucial points to secure the win.
Coaching Strategy
First-year Drake coach Ben McCollum’s patient, slow-tempo style played a significant role in the Bulldogs’ success. McCollum, who had a stellar career at Northwest Missouri State, brought a unique perspective to Drake. His approach focused on building a team that could grind out wins through defense and disciplined offense. McCollum’s strategy was evident in how Drake defended Missouri, making every shot a chore for the Tigers. The Bulldogs’ defense held Missouri to its lowest first-half point total of the season, a critical factor in their victory.
McCollum’s philosophy emphasizes finding and believing in tough, competitive players. He assembled a team primarily consisting of former Division II recruits and junior college transfers, along with a few holdovers from the previous coaching staff. This unlikely group embraced McCollum’s style, leading to a 30-3 record and an NCAA tournament berth as champions of the Missouri Valley Conference.
Player Performances
Bennett Stirtz’s 21 points were a highlight, but the team’s success was built on collective effort. Tavion Banks, a junior college transfer, earned MVC Sixth Man of the Year honors and contributed 15 points and nine rebounds. Stirtz’s calm demeanor and ability to evaluate McCollum’s strategies on the fly were instrumental in the final minutes. McCollum credited Stirtz’s experience in big games for his poise under pressure.
Tavion Banks’ rebounding and offensive support were equally important. His 15 points and nine rebounds stabilised the team’s performance, especially during the crucial final stretch. Drake’s balanced scoring and defensive effort were key to their victory, showcasing the depth and resilience McCollum has instilled in the team.
Team Dynamics and Transformation
Building a Winning Culture
McCollum’s arrival at Drake last April marked a significant turning point for the program. In less than a year, he transformed the team into a formidable force in the NCAA tournament. His vision and leadership have been pivotal in creating a winning culture at Drake. The coach’s ability to find and believe in tough players has been a cornerstone of his strategy, evident in the Bulldogs’ performance against Missouri.
McCollum’s past success at Northwest Missouri State, where he won four national titles, highlights his coaching acumen. His ability to adapt and implement a slow-tempo style at Drake has been crucial in their success. The Bulldogs’ 30-3 record and NCAA tournament berth are a testament to his leadership and the players’ buy-in to his philosophy.
McCollum’s team-building approach also involved fostering a culture of resilience and competitiveness. The Bulldogs’ physical dominance on the boards and their ability to grind out wins reflect this culture. The team’s performance against Missouri, where they held a 15-point lead and weathered a late charge, showcased their determination and McCollum’s influence.
McCollum’s vision for Drake goes beyond individual games. He aims to build a program that can consistently compete at the highest level. The Bulldogs’ victory over Missouri is just the beginning of what could be a remarkable run in the tournament, potentially reaching the Sweet 16 for the first time since 1971. With a win against Texas Tech in the second round, Drake could continue to defy expectations and make a deep run in the tournament.
McCollum’s leadership and the team’s transformation have not only surprised the basketball world but also set a new standard for small schools and programs. His ability to find and develop talent, coupled with his strategic coaching, has positioned Drake as a serious contender in the NCAA tournament. As the Bulldogs continue their run, McCollum’s vision and the team’s grit will be crucial in determining their ultimate success.
Roster Reconstruction and Player Development
Ben McCollum’s arrival at Drake brought with it a fresh perspective and a renewed sense of purpose. The transformation of the Bulldogs into a formidable NCAA tournament contender is not just a result of his coaching philosophy but also a testament to his skill in roster reconstruction. McCollum, a coach known for his ability to identify and develop talent, has managed to build a team that defies expectations. The 10-man rotation that led Drake to victory against Missouri is a marvel of resourcefulness and strategic thinking. The roster comprises former Division II players, junior college transfers, and holdovers from the previous coaching staff, all brought together under a unified vision.
A Closer Look at the Roster
- Division II Recruits: Players like Bennett Stirtz, who joined Drake after a successful stint at Northwest Missouri State, where he earned accolades and experience under McCollum’s guidance. Stirtz’s 21 points in the Missouri game exemplify the value of bringing in skilled players from other divisions.
- Junior College Transfers: Tavion Banks, a key player in the rotation, transferred from a junior college and was named the MVC Sixth Man of the Year. His experience and maturity have significantly contributed to the team’s defensive and offensive strategies.
- Holdovers from the Previous Staff: The inclusion of players who stayed loyal to Drake despite the coaching change demonstrates McCollum’s ability to integrate different types of players into a cohesive unit, showcasing his leadership and adaptability.
- Bennett Stirtz: Stirtz’s performance in the tournament game against Missouri is a prime example of how McCollum’s coaching has helped players grow. His ability to score 21 points, utilizing both his shooting and dribbling skills, showcases the development he underwent under McCollum’s tutelage.
- Tavion Banks: Banks, who entered the game as a sixth man, has emerged as a crucial player, providing not only scoring but also rebounding, with his 15 points and nine rebounds against Missouri. His ability to control the game’s rhythm and contribute in various ways is a testament to McCollum’s coaching style.
McCollum’s approach to building a roster reflects his expertise in player development and his focus on creating a winning culture. Each member of the team has been carefully selected to fit the team’s strategy and to ensure that they can contribute effectively. This mix of seasoned players and newcomers has created a formidable lineup, capable of competing against higher-ranked teams in the NCAA tournament.
Player Development under McCollum
Coach McCollum’s success with Drake is not just about assembling a strong roster but also about his ability to develop his players to thrive in their roles. His patient, slow-tempo style of play has been a perfect fit for the Bulldogs, particularly for players like Stirtz and Banks.
McCollum’s approach has been to instill confidence in his players, pushing them to perform beyond their perceived limits. By focusing on fundamentals and enhancing their individual skills, he has successfully molded a team that can compete at a high level despite their lower seeding.
Implications and Future Prospects
Bracket Implications
The upset victory against Missouri has significant implications for Drake’s position in the NCAA tournament bracket. Advancing to the second round, Drake will face the third-seeded Texas Tech. This match-up presents another challenge, but the Bulldogs’ performance against Missouri demonstrates their capability to compete against higher-ranked teams. The momentum from this victory could push Drake further into the tournament, potentially reaching the Sweet 16 for the first time since 1971.
The unpredictable nature of the NCAA tournament, especially with first-round upsets, means that Drake’s path to the Sweet 16 could be feasible. Coach McCollum’s team has shown they are capable of adapting to high-pressure situations and overcoming significant odds, which bodes well for their future prospects in the tournament.
Program Momentum
The long-term impact of this win on the Drake program cannot be understated. This victory serves as a beacon for current and prospective players, demonstrating the program’s potential for success. It also highlights the university’s ability to compete at a national level, which can enhance its reputation and attract top talent. Moreover, it provides a significant boost to the school’s fan base, potentially increasing fan engagement and support.
The impact on recruitment is another crucial aspect. With this win, Drake can now present a compelling narrative to potential recruits about the team’s potential and its commitment to success. The victory against Missouri also reinforces the team’s ethos of hard work and resilience, qualities that can be highly attractive to college athletes seeking a winning culture. The Drake program, once seen as a mid-major, is now positioned to be a force to be reckoned with in the NCAA tournament and beyond.
Coaching Legacy
The victory against Missouri marks a significant milestone in Ben McCollum’s coaching legacy. Known for his success at Northwest Missouri State, where he won four national titles, McCollum has now established a new chapter of his career at Drake. His ability to quickly transform a program within the span of a year is a testament to his coaching acumen. This success underscores his talent for identifying and developing players, as well as his strategic prowess on the court.
McCollum’s legacy at Drake is not just about this single victory. It is also about the long-term development of the program and the players. His focus on team building and player development has positioned Drake as a competitive force in the NCAA tournament. This performance can elevate McCollum’s status in the coaching community, solidify his reputation as a top coach, and potentially place him in the conversation for future coaching opportunities or recognition within the basketball world.
Conclusion
As the college basketball arena continues to witness stunning upsets, the 11-seed Drake Bulldogs’ victory over the Missouri Tigers stands out as a testament to the unpredictability of the sport. According to ESPN, the Bulldogs’ coach had an unflinching confidence in his team’s abilities, which ultimately led to their triumph. This unexpected win serves as a poignant reminder that even in the face of adversity, a well-crafted strategy and unwavering faith in one’s team can lead to remarkable outcomes.
The implications of this upset are far-reaching, with far-reaching consequences for both the Bulldogs and the Tigers. For Drake, this victory is a significant milestone that can boost team morale and propel them forward in their playoff bid. Conversely, Mizzou’s loss highlights the fragility of their season, underscoring the need for a renewed focus and determination to bounce back. As the playoffs enter their next phase, this upset serves as a stark reminder that no team is invincible, and that even the most seemingly insurmountable challenges can be overcome with the right mindset and support.
As we move forward, the Bulldogs’ victory will undoubtedly serve as a galvanizing force for their team, fueling their desire to push beyond their perceived limitations and achieve greatness. Meanwhile, Mizzou will be forced to regroup and reassess their strategy, striving to learn from their mistakes and emerge stronger and more resilient. This thrilling upset will continue to resonate throughout the college basketball community, inspiring teams to re-examine their own approach and push the boundaries of what is possible. Ultimately, it’s a fitting reminder that in sports, as in life, anything is possible when we dare to believe in the impossible.