The Drake Bulldogs are in the midst of one of their program’s best seasons, thanks to the great coaching job done by Ben McCollum.
What Drake Is Doing Right
As FOX Sports broadcaster John Fanta noted in a recent social media post, the Bulldogs have won 11 games in a row, bringing their record to 23-2. Fanta also has a very high opinion of McCollum.
“Ben McCollum is a coaching star. Drake Bulldogs – extraordinary!’
Drake continues to be one of CBB’s best stories. The Bulldogs are 23-2 and have won 11 in a row. Bennett Stirtz is as good as any mid-major player in the country. Averaging 19/4/6 per game while shooting 50%. Ben McCollum is a coaching star. @DrakeBulldogsMB – extraordinary!
— John Fanta (@John_Fanta) February 13, 2025
The Bulldogs are currently taking care of business in the Missouri Valley Conference as they sit in first place with a conference record of 13-2.
Perhaps the biggest reason why coach McCollum has the team playing so well is because the team currently ranks second in America in scoring defense, right behind Houston, as they are allowing an average of 59.2 points per game.
When you have a great defense, it also helps to have an elite offensive player, like guard Bennett Stirtz. Stirtz is averaging 18.9 points per game and shooting just under 50% from the field. He is also dishing out an average of 6.2 assists per game, which is key in the life of a point guard in college basketball.
McCollum has an elite defense and a star ball-handler at his disposal.
Drake’s March Ceiling
With McCollum’s recipe working in his favor, the Bulldogs could make it far in the postseason. Nothing is ever given in March, but if this team can handle business in the Missouri Valley Tournament next month, the ceiling is high.
If they can do that, they may be a tough out for whoever draws them in the NCAA Tournament. Remember, Cinderella tends to show up in March every season in college basketball.
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But this Drake team might be too good to be called a Cinderella team, even though it might not have a big brand. The Bulldogs will take the court next Sunday against Bradley, the second-place team in the Missouri Valley Conference.
This could be a good test for both teams ahead of the stretch run in conference play.
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