On a remarkable night, Drake University's basketball team showcased their resilience and talent by defeating Missouri 67-57 in the NCAA Tournament. Led by Coach Ben McCollum, who previously guided Northwest Missouri State to multiple championships, this team of Division II transfers defied expectations. Their victory not only set a new school record for wins but also ended a four-game losing streak in first-round NCAA games. This win propels them into a second-round matchup against Texas Tech, marking their closest approach to the Sweet 16 since 1971.

The journey of these athletes is inspiring, with many overlooked by major universities during high school. Under McCollum’s leadership, they have transformed into a cohesive unit that thrives on mutual trust and determination. As they advance, their belief in achieving greater success grows stronger, aiming to surprise the nation with their potential.

The Making of an Unlikely Champion

This section explores how the Bulldogs assembled their roster through unconventional means, focusing on players like Bennett Stirtz and Isaiah Jackson, who were initially undervalued by larger schools. Coach McCollum’s vision played a crucial role in bringing these talents together.

Bennett Stirtz epitomizes the spirit of the Drake Bulldogs. Initially disregarded by prominent colleges, he found his footing at Northwest Missouri State under Coach McCollum. Similarly, Isaiah Jackson faced similar neglect before joining the same program. When McCollum transitioned to Drake, he reached out to these former players, offering them an opportunity to compete at a higher level. His knack for identifying winners among overlooked athletes became instrumental in shaping the current lineup. Each player brought unique skills honed during their time in Division II, contributing significantly to the team's success. They embraced the challenge wholeheartedly, driven by a shared dream and unwavering support from one another.

A New Era of Success

This segment delves into the achievements of the Bulldogs thus far, emphasizing their groundbreaking victories and aspirations for future accomplishments.

The Bulldogs have already rewritten history books by setting a new school record for victories and sweeping both regular-season and postseason titles in the Missouri Valley Conference. Their performance against Missouri exemplifies their ability to overcome formidable opponents. The atmosphere created by their enthusiastic supporters added fuel to their fire, enabling them to secure this pivotal win. Despite hailing predominantly from Division II backgrounds, these athletes demonstrate that perseverance and teamwork can lead to extraordinary results. With renewed confidence following this triumph, they aim to extend their momentum into subsequent rounds. There exists a palpable sense within the team that they possess the capability to achieve even loftier goals if they maintain unity and focus on executing fundamental strategies effectively. This narrative underscores the transformative power of believing in oneself and embracing opportunities fully, regardless of initial circumstances.