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.
- 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.
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