Drake Bulldogs Battle for MVC Title in Final Stretch
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With just four games remaining in the regular season, the drake University men’s basketball team is fiercely battling to maintain its commanding lead in the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC). Boasting an impressive 23-3 overall record and a 13-3 MVC record, the Bulldogs face a crucial week, starting with a home game against the UIC Flames on Wednesday, Feb. 19, followed by a challenging road matchup against in-state rival UNI on sunday, Feb.23.
Drake’s 23-3 start is tied for the second-best in school history after 26 games, trailing only the 2020-21 team’s 24-2 start. Their remarkable .885 winning percentage ranks second nationally, surpassed only by Auburn. Currently ranked No. 59 in the NCAA NET rankings, the Bulldogs have already secured two victories against Quad 1 opponents. Their 23 wins are tied for the most among all NCAA Division I teams this season—a testament to their exceptional performance.
The team’s success extends beyond their overall record.Drake is the only MVC school to have won seven road games this season, a feat accomplished only three other times in program history (2007-08, 2020-21, and 2021-22). Their dominance is further highlighted by their 20-1 record when leading at halftime, showcasing their ability to establish early control. Their offensive prowess is undeniable, with 17 games this season featuring first-half shooting percentages of 50% or better. In six games this season, including five at home, they’ve scored 40 or more points in the first half.
Leading the charge for Drake is Bennett Stirtz
, who has had a stellar season. He recently recorded his 13th 20-plus point game, scoring a team-high 25 points against Illinois State on Feb.15, including 14 in the second half. He also grabbed a game-high seven rebounds and dished out a game-high six assists. Stirtz has scored in double figures in 24 of 26 games this season,and has scored 20 or more points in five of the last six games. He’s on the verge of making Drake history, aiming to become the first player to achieve 500 points and 150 assists in a single season. Entering the UIC game, he had 480 points and 159 assists, a feat that would place him alongside MVC greats like Larry Bird, who accomplished the feat in 1978-79 with 973 points and 187 assists.
Other key contributors for Drake include Mitch Mascari (11.3 ppg, 2.1 rpg, .455 3pt%), and Daniel Abreu (11.2 ppg, 3.2 rpg, .458 FG%).
Facing the UIC Flames
The UIC Flames,with a 15-11 overall record and an 8-8 MVC record,present a significant challenge. Currently fifth in the MVC standings, UIC recently ended a four-game losing streak with a victory over Missouri State. despite being picked 12th in the preseason poll, they’ve performed well on the road, boasting a 7-4 record away from Chicago. First-year head coach Rob Ehsan has led UIC to their most wins since the 2019-20 season (18-17), building on his previous success at UAB (76-57 record over four seasons).
Drake holds a commanding 10-3 lead in the all-time series against UIC, including a 6-1 record in Des Moines. However, UIC snapped a five-game losing streak against Drake earlier this season, handing the Bulldogs their first loss on January 1—their first win over Drake since December 4, 2000. UIC’s key players include Javon Jackson (12.7 ppg, 2.8 apg, 1.7 spg), Ahmad Henderson II (11.4 ppg, 2.8 apg, .906 FT%), and Jordan Mason (10.7 ppg, 3.4 rpg, 3.3 apg).
The UNI Panthers Showdown
The Bulldogs’ next challenge is a clash with in-state rival UNI on Sunday, Feb.23. UNI,currently on a five-game winning streak,holds an 18-9 overall record and is tied for second in the MVC at 12-4. They will have played two games before facing Drake, including a postponed game against Murray State and a game against Belmont. Head coach Ben jacobson, a long-time fixture at UNI, boasts a 372-242 career record.
The rivalry between Drake and UNI is steeped in history, with 87 previous meetings.UNI holds a 52-35 advantage in the all-time series, but Drake has won eight of their last 10 matchups. Though, Drake has struggled in Cedar Falls, holding a 9-30 record there. Drake secured a victory in the first meeting this season, winning 66-52 at the Knapp Center in des Moines on January 29.UNI’s top players include Tytan Anderson (14.9 ppg,6.5 rpg, .576 FG%), Jacob Hutson (11.8 ppg, 4.2 rpg, .491 FG%), and Trey Campbell (11.6 ppg, 4.0 rpg, 2.9 apg).
Looking Ahead
Drake will conclude their regular season with a road game against Evansville on Wednesday, Feb.26, followed by their regular season finale against missouri State at the Knapp Center on Sunday, March 2.
The Battle for Glory: Drake Bulldogs’ MVC Title Quest
Headline: Drake Bulldogs Set to Make MVC History in Final Stretch of Season
In a thrilling push for the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) title, Drake university’s Bulldogs are showcasing basketball excellence and determination. But what does this season mean in the grand scheme of college basketball?
Editor Questions
1. The Unstoppable Bulldogs: What Makes Drake Stand Out This Season?
Drake’s men’s basketball team has certainly made waves this season. Coudl you shed some light on what sets them apart?
2. Bennett Stirtz: On the Verge of History
Bennett Stirtz is on a remarkable path, potentially becoming the first Drake player to hit the 500-point, 150-assist mark in a single season.How significant is this achievement?
3. Facing Tough Opponents: UIC Flames and UNI Panthers
With challenging matchups ahead against UIC and UNI, what does Drake need to focus on to secure their leadership in the MVC?
4. The Past Rivalry: Drake vs. UNI
The Drake-UNI rivalry has a storied past. What are the key elements of this rivalry, and how might it impact their upcoming game?
5. Looking Forward: Post-Season Prospects
Beyond the regular season, what are the prospects for Drake Bulldogs in the post-season? How do they leverage this season’s momentum moving forward?
Expert’s Answers
1. The Unstoppable Bulldogs: What Makes Drake Stand Out this season?
Impactful Offense and Defensive Discipline
Drake Bulldogs are making history not just through their standout statistics but by their methodical approach that blends offensive fireworks with defensive resilience. This season, their extraordinary 20+ point first-half performances and maintaining a 20-1 record when leading at halftime highlight their strategic early control of games.
Balanced team Contributions
Bennett Stirtz leads the charge with his exceptional scoring and playmaking, yet it’s the balanced efforts from players like Mitch Mascari and Daniel Abreu that solidify their success. Balanced scoring ensures that opponents can’t easily focus their defensive efforts on a single star.
Historical Comparison
Their performance mirrors past triumphant teams but stands unique with their current winning percentage, second nationally to Auburn’s. drake’s journey underscores how strategic balance and relentless execution can redefine a season.
2. Bennett Stirtz: On the Vein of History
Historical Importance and Leadership
Achieving 500 points with 150 assists in a season places Bennett Stirtz in rarefied air, akin to historic figures like Larry Bird. This level of performance indicates not just skill, but an evolved understanding of the game where leadership and anticipatory playmaking are paramount.
Role as a Trailblazer
Not only is this a personal milestone, but it sets a new standard for future bulldogs. Players aspire to reach and exceed such benchmarks, fostering a culture of excellence. Stirtz’s potential achievement elevates the conversation about individual contributions versus team success in modern basketball.
3. Facing Tough Opponents: UIC Flames and UNI Panthers
Preparation Against Top Competitors
Facing UIC and UNI requires Drake to refine their strategy, focusing on maintaining halftime leads against tactically adept opponents. UIC’s upset over Drake earlier in the season is a reminder of the importance of adaptability and defensive preparation.
Vital Aspects of Pursuing Leadership
The road games emphasize Drake’s need for poise and resilience. Avoiding complacency and committing to their attacking ethos — highlighted by high first-half shooting percentages — will be critical.
4. The Historical Rivalry: Drake vs. UNI
Legacy and Current Tension
The Drake-UNI rivalry is steeped in competitive history, further emphasized by their recent head-to-head battles that tilt in Drake’s favor despite UNI’s dominant historical record. This matchup provides a stage for players to make personal marks on a rivalry filled with dramatic narratives.
Impact on Upcoming Match
the emotional weight and anticipation surrounding this rivalry can serve as a double-edged sword. Harnessing the positive aspects while answering historical criticisms, especially considering Drake’s challenging record in Cedar Falls, can elevate their team spirit and performance.
5. Looking Forward: Post-Season Prospects
Building on Current Momentum
With an eye on the NCAA post-season, Drake can capitalize on their momentum through continued dedication to the strategies that have served them well. Emphasizing early-game dominance and resilient defense will carry forward into high-stakes matchups.
Future of the Bulldogs
The season’s potential success sets a foundation for future squads, attracting talent inspired by their achievements.This also highlights the growing influence of the MVC in the national basketball landscape, suggesting exciting prospects for Drake in the coming years.
Conclusion
As the Drake Bulldogs continue their impressive campaign, their journey reflects the vibrant spirit and strategic acumen that defines standout basketball programs. Their performance throughout this season, against talented opponents, shapes not just their legacy but opens doors for future Bulldogs.
Join the conversation and share your thoughts on Drake Bulldogs’ season below. What do you believe will be their defining moment? Let us know!