Founded in 1881 and located in Des Moines, Iowa, Drake University has long been recognized for its academic prowess. But on the basketball court, the Bulldogs have had their share of memorable moments too. Competing in the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC), one of the most competitive mid-major leagues, Drake has historically been an emblem of resilience.
Drake’s basketball legacy peaked in 1969 when the Bulldogs, under the leadership of coach Maury John, made a run to the NCAA Final Four. Though they fell to the dominant UCLA Bruins led by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, their remarkable journey put them on the national map.
Since then, the Bulldogs have seen intermittent success, often overshadowed by conference rivals. However, the tide began to turn in recent years, with consistent postseason appearances and a commitment to building a sustainable program.
Meet the Man at the Helm: Coach Darian DeVries
Central to Drake’s resurgence is head coach Darian DeVries. Hired in 2018, DeVries brought an infectious energy to the program. Prior to leading the Bulldogs, DeVries spent 17 years as an assistant at Creighton University, gaining a reputation as a brilliant tactician and an adept recruiter.
Under his guidance, Drake has become a fixture in the upper tier of the Missouri Valley Conference. His coaching philosophy revolves around an up-tempo style of play, with an emphasis on defensive discipline and perimeter shooting. In his first season, DeVries led the Bulldogs to a share of the MVC regular-season title, earning the conference’s Coach of the Year honors.
Through DeVries’ leadership, Drake has embraced a culture of accountability and relentless effort. That identity was on full display in their upset over Missouri.
The Game: Bulldogs Bite Back
Missouri came into the matchup with a commanding presence, boasting a high-powered offense and a roster filled with seasoned talent. But Drake was undeterred. The Bulldogs opened the game with a flurry of three-pointers, forcing Missouri to play catch-up from the outset.
Senior guard Roman Penn, who has been the heart and soul of this Drake squad, orchestrated the offense with poise. Penn’s court vision and clutch shooting kept the Bulldogs ahead, while sophomore forward Tucker DeVries, son of Coach Darian DeVries, delivered a standout performance with 24 points and 8 rebounds.
Defensively, Drake disrupted Missouri’s rhythm with a stifling zone that forced the Tigers into contested shots. Despite a late surge from Missouri, Drake’s composure in the closing minutes secured the historic victory.
The Key Players: Stars of the Show
Roman Penn
The senior guard’s leadership is invaluable. A dynamic playmaker, Penn has overcome multiple injuries throughout his college career. Against Missouri, he showcased his resilience, finishing with 17 points and 7 assists.
Tucker DeVries
Coach’s son, yes, but Tucker has earned his place as the Bulldogs’ go-to scorer. With a versatile skill set, he can knock down threes, drive to the rim, and grab key rebounds. His performance against Missouri reaffirmed his status as one of the nation’s premier mid-major talents.
Darnell Brodie
The senior forward was a defensive force, anchoring the Bulldogs in the paint. His physicality and rebounding presence were instrumental in limiting Missouri’s second-chance opportunities.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the Bulldogs?
With this monumental win, Drake advances to the second round of the NCAA Tournament. Awaiting them is a matchup against the 3rd-seeded Baylor Bears, a team with size, depth, and experience. While the odds may be steep, the Bulldogs have already shown they thrive in the face of adversity.
For Coach DeVries and his players, the message remains clear: embrace the moment, stay disciplined, and believe in each other. The nation has already taken notice—the Bulldogs are no longer just a feel-good story. They’re a legitimate contender.
The Broader Impact: Bulldogs on the Map
Drake’s victory is not just a triumph for the basketball program—it’s a win for the entire university. Admissions offices are undoubtedly preparing for a spike in applications, while alumni relish the newfound national recognition.
Moreover, this success is a testament to the vitality of mid-major programs in college basketball. Drake’s journey serves as a reminder that talent, heart, and brilliant coaching can level the playing field against even the most established programs.
In Conclusion: The Magic of March
As the buzzer sounded and the Bulldogs celebrated their victory over Missouri, it was clear that this was more than just an upset. It was the culmination of years of dedication, growth, and belief. And now, as they prepare for the next chapter of their journey, one thing is certain—the Drake Bulldogs are just getting started.
In a world where Goliaths often dominate, it’s stories like Drake’s that remind us why we love March Madness. So keep those brackets handy and stay tuned. Because as the Bulldogs have proven, anything is possible in the month of miracles.
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