For the third consecutive season, Drake University’s men’s basketball program has showcased its dominance. They did so in the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) with top individual accolades. Despite changes in coaching and player personnel, the Bulldogs have continued their reign, with standout guard Bennett Stirtz earning the prestigious Larry Bird Trophy for MVC Player of the Year.
Bennett Stirtz Claims MVC Player of the Year
Additionally, head coach Ben McCollum’s exceptional leadership in his debut season was recognized as he was named MVC Coach of the Year. Bennett Stirtz made an immediate impact in his first season at Drake, securing the conference’s top individual honor. The junior guard was named the MVC Player of the Year. He has also earned the title of Newcomer of the Year, cementing his status as one of the most impactful players in recent conference history.
𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙈𝙖𝙣 𝘾𝙖𝙣 𝘿𝙤 𝙄𝙩 𝘼𝙡𝙡 🤩
– MVC Larry Bird Player of the Year
– MVC Newcomer of the Year
– All-MVC First Team
– All-Newcomer Team#CultureWins l #DSMHometownTeam l @bennett_stirtz pic.twitter.com/XpvkFOWQDo— Drake Basketball (@DrakeBulldogsMB) March 5, 2025
His outstanding performance throughout the season placed him in an exclusive group. In his debut season, he became just the third player in MVC history to win the Larry Bird Trophy, joining Drake legends Lewis Lloyd (1980) and Curt Smith (1993).
Stirtz led the conference in multiple key categories, averaging 18.9 points, 5.9 assists, and 4.4 rebounds per game. His defensive presence was equally impressive, recording a career-high 66 steals. Playing a pivotal role in Drake’s success, Stirtz started every game and logged an average of 39.3 minutes per contest, proving to be an indispensable asset for the Bulldogs.
Ben McCollum’s Coaching Brilliance Recognized
In addition to Stirtz’s on-court achievements, first-year head coach Ben McCollum’s leadership was instrumental in guiding Drake to an exceptional season. With a remarkable 27-3 overall record and a dominant 17-3 performance in conference play, McCollum’s debut campaign set a new standard for excellence.
McCollum’s coaching philosophy emphasized both offensive efficiency and defensive discipline, enabling the Bulldogs to outperform their conference rivals consistently. Under his guidance, the team remained a powerhouse in the MVC, further solidifying its reputation as a program built for sustained success. His recognition as Coach of the Year underscores the seamless transition Drake has undergone despite the changes in leadership.
Beyond Stirtz and McCollum, several other Drake players received conference honors for their contributions. Tavion Banks was named Sixth Man of the Year after an impressive season off the bench, averaging 9.9 points and 4.7 rebounds per game. Mitch Mascari earned a spot on the All-MVC Third Team, while Daniel Abreu’s defensive prowess was acknowledged with a selection to the MVC All-Defensive Team.
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With individual accolades and team success, Drake’s dominance in the Missouri Valley Conference continues to grow, setting the stage for an exciting postseason run.
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