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Drake Stuns Missouri in NCAA Tournament First Round

The Bulldogs' top-ranked defense and Division II transfers secure their first first-round win since 1971, overcoming the Tigers' high-scoring offense.

Bennett Stirtz #14 of the Drake Bulldogs dribbles up court during the Shriners Children's Charleston Classic college basketball game against the Florida Atlantic Owls at TD Arena on November 22, 2024 in Charleston, South Carolina.
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Overview

  • Drake, an 11-seed, defeated 6-seed Missouri 67-57 in the NCAA Tournament's first round, marking their first first-round win since 1971.
  • Led by Bennett Stirtz's 21 points, Drake's defensive dominance held Missouri to their second-lowest scoring output of the season.
  • First-year Division I coach Ben McCollum, a former Division II champion, guided the Bulldogs to a historic victory with a roster heavily composed of Division II transfers.
  • Missouri entered the game on a slump, losing four of their last five, and struggled offensively throughout the matchup.
  • Drake advances to face either Texas Tech or UNC Wilmington in the second round on March 22, aiming for their first Sweet 16 appearance since 1971.