In an unexpected twist to the 2025 NCAA Tournament, the Drake Bulldogs, under the guidance of first-year head coach Ben McCollum, have emerged as one of the most captivating stories. McCollum, who has a storied history with Northwest Missouri State, has taken the Bulldogs to new heights by integrating Division II talent into his roster.
This blog post delves into the journey of McCollum and his team, highlighting their remarkable season and what the future holds for Drake basketball.
The Rise of Ben McCollum and the Drake Bulldogs
Ben McCollum, often referred to as the *architect of the most successful men’s college basketball dynasty of the last decade*, has made a significant impact in his first year at Drake. His success at Northwest Missouri State, where he won four national Division II championships, laid the foundation for his current achievements.
McCollum brought four of his former Division II players to Drake, creating a unique team dynamic that has surprised many in the NCAA.
Building a Winning Team
McCollum’s strategy was unconventional but effective. He integrated Division II talent into the Division I landscape, a move that raised eyebrows but ultimately paid off.
The Bulldogs became the first team in the nation to win 30 games this season, a testament to McCollum’s coaching prowess and the players’ dedication. The Missouri Valley Conference, known for its competitive nature, saw McCollum’s team rise to the top, winning the league in his first season.
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Key Players and Their Impact
One of the standout players this season has been guard Bennett Stirtz. A former Division II player with no Division I offers out of high school, Stirtz has become a pivotal figure for the Bulldogs.
He not only earned the title of Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Year but also achieved the unique feat of scoring at least 600 points, dishing out 180 assists, and securing 70 steals in a single season.
Daniel Abreu: A Story of Determination
Another key player is Daniel Abreu, the team’s second-leading scorer. Abreu’s journey is a story of persistence and determination.
With a diverse background—his mother is Russian, and his father is Puerto Rican—Abreu’s parents met while working as janitors in a Springfield, Missouri hospital. This unique heritage and his hard work have shaped him into a crucial player for Drake.
Drake’s Defensive Prowess
The Bulldogs’ success this season can be attributed significantly to their defensive strategy. They are ranked second nationally in defense, allowing only 59 points per game.
This slow tempo and disciplined defense have made them a formidable opponent, especially in the high-stakes environment of the NCAA Tournament. Their adjusted tempo, the average number of possessions per 40 minutes, is the slowest in the country, according to KenPom.
Preparing for the Big Games
Missouri, one of Drake’s opponents, took their defensive strategy seriously.
Coach Dennis Gates had his team practice against a squad made up of grad assistants and managers, emphasizing the importance of taking 25 seconds off the clock before shooting. This preparation highlights the respect and caution other teams have for Drake’s defensive capabilities.
The Future of Ben McCollum and Drake Basketball
As the season progresses, speculation about McCollum’s future grows. His name has been linked to several high-profile coaching positions, including Indiana and Iowa.
Despite the rumors, McCollum remains focused on his current role, although he has not committed to staying at Drake beyond this season. This uncertainty adds another layer of intrigue to the Bulldogs’ story.
Maintaining Momentum
Regardless of McCollum’s decision, the foundation he has built at Drake is strong. The Bulldogs have shown that they can compete at a high level, even with a roster largely comprised of Division II players.
Their performance this season has brought a renewed sense of optimism and excitement to the program.
Conclusion
The 2025 NCAA Tournament has been a showcase for the Drake Bulldogs and their innovative coach, Ben McCollum. McCollum has led his team to an impressive season by blending Division II talent with a robust defensive strategy. As the tournament continues, all eyes will be on Drake to see how far this remarkable journey can go.
For more details on this captivating story, visit the original article on CBS Sports.
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