The Drake Bulldogs basketball team emerged victorious over Bradley in a nail-biting Missouri Valley Conference semifinal game, securing their hard-fought spot in the MVC Tournament title game. Atin Wright, the star of the match, exhibited exceptional performance, scoring 15 points in the second half and making crucial plays that ultimately led to the Bulldogs’ 72-67 win over Bradley.
Wright’s prowess on both ends of the court was evident, particularly in a pivotal defensive play where he intercepted the ball from Bradley’s Connor Hickman, denying the Braves a chance to even the score. His remarkable performance underscores the Bulldogs’ unwavering determination to qualify for the Valley championship game for the fourth consecutive year.
Drake’s victory sets the stage for a highly-anticipated faceoff against Indiana State, scheduled for 1 p.m. Sunday and televised by CBS. The stakes are high, with an automatic berth in the NCAA Tournament at risk. Notably, Drake has previously secured NCAA Tournament berths in two of the past three seasons, making the upcoming championship game a crucial juncture for the team.
Though the contest against Bradley proved to be a formidable challenge, with Bradley initially dominating the game, the Bulldogs displayed resilience and composure under pressure. Tucker DeVries, a key player for Drake, faced intense defensive pressure from Bradley’s Malevy Leons, but ultimately contributed 17 points to the team’s victory, with pivotal plays that included game-tying and game-winning free throws.
Drake’s head coach, Darian DeVries, acknowledged the tenacity and aggressiveness displayed by Bradley, which had initially put the Bulldogs on the back foot. However, the team successfully countered Bradley’s defensive strategy and matched their intensity, ultimately forging a tie at halftime and securing the hard-fought win.
Looking ahead to the championship game against Indiana State, DeVries emphasized the formidable challenge posed by the opposing team while expressing confidence in Drake’s ability to deliver a stellar performance. He stressed the significance of Sunday’s game, with both teams vying for a coveted spot in the NCAA Tournament.
As the Bulldogs gear up for the championship game, the stage is set for an exhilarating showdown that promises to be a true test of skill, determination, and sportsmanship. Regardless of the outcome, both teams are poised to deliver an electrifying display of basketball prowess, showcasing the best of MVC talent on the court. With their eyes firmly set on clinching victory, the Bulldogs are prepared to leave it all on the court, striving to secure a well-deserved spot in the prestigious NCAA Tournament.