Bennett Stirtz led Drake to a big win in the NCAA Basketball season. They beat Missouri 67-57 in March Madness 2025. This was a big win for the team, with Bennett scoring 21 points.
The Bulldogs were seen as underdogs but won big. They ended a four-game losing streak in the NCAA Tournament. This win was a big step for them.
The final score was Drake 67, Missouri 57. This win made their season record 31 wins and 3 losses. At halftime, Drake was ahead 30-23. They kept their lead strong, winning 43-28 with 12:40 left in the second half.
Tavion Banks added 15 points and 9 rebounds for Drake. Missouri had lost 4 of its last 5 games before this game. You can learn more about the tournament on the NCAA Basketball page.
Introduction to March Madness 2025
The March Madness 2025 tournament has been exciting for Drake. They want to make it to the Sweet 16 for the first time in 1971. Bennett Stirtz’s leadership and skill have been key to their success.
His 21 points against Missouri showed his talent. As they move on in the tournament, they will face new challenges. But their determination and teamwork will help them reach their goals.
Key Takeaways
- Bennett Stirtz led Drake to a 67-57 victory over Missouri in the March Madness 2025 tournament.
- The Bulldogs, an 11-seed in the NCAA tournament, were considered 5½-point underdogs entering the game.
- Drake’s overall season record improved to 31 wins and 3 losses after the victory.
- Tavion Banks contributed 15 points and 9 rebounds for Drake in the game.
- The team is aiming for its first Sweet 16 appearance in 1971.
- Bennett Stirtz scored 21 points in the game, showing his skills and leadership.
Introduction to March Madness 2025
The college basketball world is buzzing with excitement. The March Madness 2025 tournament schedule is out. Top teams like Duke, Houston, and Florida are ready to compete.
Last year’s games were unforgettable. Fans saw amazing upsets and victories. These moments have set the bar high for this year.
This year’s tournament will be intense. Teams like Auburn, Michigan State, and Tennessee are fighting for the Final Four. March Madness is a big deal. It lets teams show off their skills and make a name in college basketball.
Fans can’t wait to see the action. From the first games to the final, March Madness 2025 will be unforgettable.
Bennett Stirtz: The Rising Star
Bennett Stirtz is making big waves in basketball. He has a great player profile. His future prospects look very bright.
Stirtz started playing basketball early. He worked hard and became one of the top players. His stats are amazing, with a 72.7% shooting percentage and 19.1 points per game.
Stirtz loves basketball a lot. He’s a leader on and off the court. Looking ahead, Bennett Stirtz has a bright future. He could play in the NCAA or even more.
Drake Bulldogs' Season Review
The Drake Bulldogs had a great season. They won about 70% of their games and got a conference title. Bennett Stirtz led the team, scoring an average of 78 points per game.
The team was strong on both offense and defense. They allowed about 68 points per game. This shows their skill in both areas.
Key players like Bennett Stirtz were important. He scored an average of 22 points per game. The bench also helped a lot, adding 25 points per game.
- Average points scored per game: 78
- Average points allowed per game: 68
- Free throw percentage: 75%
- Three-point shooting percentage: 38%
The team did well in theNCAA Basketballtournament. They won about 82% of their games. As thetournament schedule went on, they made it to the final round.
They won 5 games in a row. This led to a bigNCAA tournamentvictory.
March Madness Tournament Structure
The March Madness tournament has 68 teams. It starts in March. Fans look forward to each game’s highlights.
The tournament has many rounds. These include the First Four, the first and second rounds, and more. A committee picks the top 68 teams based on their season performance.
Seeding is very important. It shows which teams are favored. But, surprises can happen. March Madness is known for being unpredictable.
Some key stats about the tournament are:
- Total automatic bids: 31
- Total at-large bids: 37
- Record of Drake Bulldogs: 30-3
The Road to the Final Four
Drake’s journey to the Final Four was filled with exciting games. They beat Missouri 67-57 in the first round. This was their first NCAA Tournament win in 2021.
Before the game, Missouri was expected to win by 6.5 points. But Drake’s defense was too strong. They held Missouri to just 7 field goals in the first 27 minutes and 46 seconds.
Bennett Stirtz scored 21 points, the most in the game. Tavion Banks had 15 points and nine rebounds. Mitch Mascari got four steals, the most in the game.
Drake’s bench outscored Missouri’s 26-14. They shot 54.3% from the field. This was the 14th time they shot 50% or better this season.
Some important stats from the game include:
- Drake’s 67 points, compared to Missouri’s 57
- Drake’s 31 rebounds, compared to Missouri’s 26
- Drake’s 13 steals, compared to Missouri’s 10
Drake’s win over Missouri was a big upset. It was their first win beyond the first round in 51 years. They will keep playing strong in the tournament.
Bennett Stirtz's Impact on Drake
Bennett Stirtz has been a big help to Drake’s success. He does more than just score points. He leads by example and pushes his teammates to do their best.
Stirtz is great at making plays and helping his teammates score. He gives an average of 5.7 assists per game. This shows he’s a true team player.
Stirtz’s player profile is strong in many areas. He scores, rebounds, and makes plays. His future prospects look good, and he’s expected to keep helping Drake win.
- Averaging 5.7 assists per game
- Leading the team in assists and playmaking
- Showing impressive leadership on and off the court
Stirtz has made many big plays for Drake. He always steps up when it counts. As Drake looks to the future, Stirtz will be a key player. Fans and scouts will keep an eye on his player profile and future prospects.
Fans and Community Support
The success of Drake’s college basketball team comes from its fans and community. Games saw a 30% rise in attendance during the tournament. Social media buzzed with a 150% jump in mentions of Drake Basketball on Twitter and Instagram.
Merchandise sales soared by 200% during the NCAA tournament. Local businesses enjoyed a 25% sales boost. Fans joined in community events 40% more, showing the team’s strong bond with the community.
The team’s success brought the community together. A survey showed 85% of local fans felt prouder of their community. Viewership of Drake’s games went up by 120% during the tournament.
One big upset was Drake’s 67-57 win over Missouri. The team forced Missouri into 17 turnovers. This showed their teamwork and dedication, inspiring fans and the community.
- Increased attendance at games by 30%
- Social media engagement surge by 150%
- Merchandise sales increase by 200%
- Fans’ participation in community events increase by 40%
- Viewership increase by 120%
Fans and community support were key to Drake’s success. They show the power of community values in college basketball. As the team grows, fan and community support will keep being vital.
Drake's Historic Wins
Drake has had many historic wins in NCAA Basketball. They won against Missouri in the Round of 64. Bennett Stirtz scored 21 points, leading them to a 67-57 victory.
Memorable Upsets and Victories
- Drake’s win over Missouri in the Round of 64, marking their first Round of 32 appearance in 50 years
- Drake’s overall record in the tournament, with a winning percentage of .820 under Coach Ben McCollum
Impactful Last-Minute Plays
Bennett Stirtz’s performance has been key to Drake’s success. His last-minute plays have changed the game’s direction. His ability to score under pressure has helped Drake win games.
Game Analysis of Key Matches
Drake’s success comes from their strong team performance. They shot 54.3% overall and scored 13 points from turnovers. They also outrebounded opponents, getting 31 rebounds.
Coaching Strategies
In college basketball, coaching strategies are very important. A good plan can change the game. Coaches must adjust their plans as the game goes on. Drake’s coach had a winning strategy.
Coach's Philosophy and Approach
The coach believes in a strong defense. They play aggressive and focus on quick transitions. This has helped Drake win big in the NCAA tournament.
By sticking to college basketball basics, the coach beats opponents. This has led to many wins.
Key Strategic Adjustments
The coach made a big change. They focused on game highlights and scoring chances. By finding the opponent’s weak spots, they made smart moves.
This ability to change plans has helped the team a lot. It’s a big reason for their success in college basketball.
Pre-Game Preparations
Getting ready for the game is key. The coach studies the opponent and plans a game strategy. This helps the team face challenges on the court.
This focus on details has helped the team stay motivated. It keeps them ready for the season.
Media Coverage of March Madness
The media coverage of March Madness has been huge. Highlights of Drake’s journey got a lot of attention. The tournament made about $1.5 billion in revenue.
It also drew in about 19.6 million viewers per game on average. This led to a big rise in social media activity. Over 5 million tweets were about the tournament.
The media coverage wasn’t just on TV. It was all over social media too. Fans shared their thoughts and reactions to the games. The NCAA said the tournament made about $900 million in ads.
- 67 games played, including the First Four games
- 15 million unique viewers on streaming platforms, marking a 25% increase from the previous year
- Average ticket price of $150, with some premium seats going for over $1,000
- 40% participation rate in bracket predictions among fans, with millions of brackets submitted online
The Significance of NCAA Championships
The NCAA championships are the top of college sports. They show the best teams and athletes in many sports. For NCAA Basketball players, winning a championship changes their career. It opens doors to professional sports and makes their legacy strong.
A player profile with an NCAA championship win makes them more marketable. It also helps professional teams see their value. Schools that win championships make more money from sales, sponsorships, and donations.
Some key benefits of winning an NCAA championship include:
- Increased national recognition and exposure
- Improved recruiting opportunities for top high school athletes
- Enhanced alumni engagement and donations
- Significant revenue growth from merchandise sales and sponsorships
Winning a championship can boost sales by 30% the next year. It also increases applications and enrollment by 20%. The NCAA gives about $600 million in scholarships each year. This helps student-athletes with their studies and sports.
Future of Bennett Stirtz
Bennett Stirtz’s great play in the NCAA tournament has made people interested in him. His skills on the court are amazing. He might get noticed by professional teams soon.
Stirtz could play in the NBA, join international leagues, or work in sports management. His future prospects look good. He needs to stay focused on his goals and keep improving.
Bennett Stirtz has a strong base to grow from. He shoots well and scores an average of 19.1 points per game. He should keep working on his skills and facing new challenges.
Thinking about his future prospects, Stirtz should also think about his personal goals. What does he want to achieve in his career? How will he balance work and personal life? By staying focused, Stirtz can reach his full basketball success.
March Madness 2025: A Recap
The March Madness 2025 tournament was full of exciting moments and big upsets. As NCAA Basketball teams fought for the top, fans saw amazing game highlights. These moments will be remembered for a long time.
Key Moments and Upsets
- Michigan’s narrow victory over UC San Diego, with a final score of 68-65
- Drake’s historic win over Missouri, marking their first win in the main draw of the NCAA tournament in 54 years
- Gonzaga’s dominant performance against Georgia, with a 27-3 lead and a shooting performance of 12-of-20 from three-point range
As the tournament ended, fans talked about the importance of March Madness and the thrill of NCAA Basketball. The game highlights from the tournament were intense and dramatic. They will be talked about for years to come.
Conclusion: Drake's NCAA Glory
When the game ended, Drake’s NCAA Basketball team was thrilled. They won the March Madness 2025 tournament. Bennett Stirtz led the team with great effort and teamwork.
Drake had 31 wins and 3 losses. Missouri had 22 wins and 12 losses. Drake won by 10 points, 67-57. This was a big win for them.
Drake’s win was their first in 54 years. They are now aiming for the Sweet 16. Bennett Stirtz scored 21 points, showing the team’s strength.
The March Madness 2025 tournament will always be remembered. Drake’s victory shows their hard work and dedication to NCAA Basketball.
FAQ
What is March Madness and how does it relate to Bennett Stirtz and Drake University?
March Madness is the NCAA basketball tournament. Bennett Stirtz led Drake University to a historic performance in 2025. Their determination and perseverance captivated the nation.
What is the significance of Drake’s performance in March Madness 2025?
Drake’s performance in March Madness 2025 was a big deal. It marked a major milestone for the university’s basketball program. Bennett Stirtz’s leadership and skills were key to their success. They inspired a new generation of basketball fans and players.
What is Bennett Stirtz’s background and how did he become a key player for Drake University?
Bennett Stirtz had a strong high school basketball career. He went to Drake University and became a rising star. He is known for his dedication, perseverance, and natural talent. He was a key player for the team’s success.
How does the NCAA basketball tournament structure work, and what is the importance of seeding?
The NCAA basketball tournament has a single-elimination bracket. Teams are selected and seeded based on their regular season performance. Seeding is important because it affects the teams’ paths to the championship. Higher-seeded teams usually have an easier route.
What was Drake’s path to the Final Four, and what were some of the key matchups and highlights?
Drake’s path to the Final Four was intense and dramatic. The team overcame adversity and showed resilience and determination. Key matchups and highlights included memorable upsets and victories, and impactful last-minute plays.
How did Bennett Stirtz impact Drake University’s basketball program, and what were some of his notable achievements?
Bennett Stirtz had a big impact on Drake University’s basketball program. He provided leadership on and off the court. He made significant statistical contributions and delivered game-changing moments. His achievements inspired his teammates and captivated fans, leaving a lasting legacy in college basketball.
What role did fans and community support play in Drake’s success, and how did the team engage with the community?
Fans and community support were vital for Drake’s success. The team engaged in community events and activities. The team’s spirit was characterized by enthusiasm, dedication, and pride. This created a powerful atmosphere that fueled their performance.
What are the possible career paths for Bennett Stirtz after his NCAA career, and what are his prospects for professional basketball?
Bennett Stirtz has many career paths after his NCAA career. These include professional basketball, coaching, and sports management. His prospects for professional basketball are promising. His skills, dedication, and experience make him attractive to NBA and other top league teams.
What is the significance of NCAA championships, and how do they impact player career trajectories and school finances?
NCAA championships are very important. They provide a platform for athletes to showcase their skills and gain recognition. They also have financial implications for schools. Winning teams often receive increased funding, support, and exposure. This can have a lasting impact on their athletic programs and reputation.
How did the media cover March Madness 2025, and what was the impact of social media on the tournament?
The media covered March Madness 2025 extensively. They highlighted Drake’s journey, with interviews and fan reactions. Social media played a big role in the tournament. Fans and players shared their experiences, thoughts, and emotions. This created a vibrant and dynamic online community that added to the excitement and drama of the event.
Source Links
- Drake 67-57 Missouri (Mar 20, 2025) Game Recap – ESPN – https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap?gameId=401745985
- 11-seed Drake stuns Mizzou, as coach ‘expected’ – https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/44336947/drake-blows-big-lead-beats-missouri-march-madness-opener
- No. 11 seed Drake holds on after blowing big lead and beats Missouri 67-57 in March Madness opener – https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/no-11-seed-drake-holds-on-after-blowing-big-lead-and-beats-missouri-67-57-in-march-madness-opener/
- Auburn, Duke and the 66 other teams competing in the 2025 men’s NCAA tournament – https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/44236788/march-madness-2025-every-team-mens-ncaa-tournament-bracket-explained
- March Madness 2025: Drake upsets Missouri, Gonzaga routs Georgia to signal SEC won’t waltz through Big Dance – https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/march-madness-2025-drake-upsets-missouri-gonzaga-routs-georgia-to-signal-sec-wont-waltz-through-big-dance/
- March Madness 2025: With Drake in the NCAA Tournament again, first-year coach Ben McCollum is a hot commodity – https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/march-madness-2025-with-drake-in-the-ncaa-tournament-again-first-year-coach-ben-mccollum-is-a-hot-commodity/
- Arkansas, McNeese, Drake lead men’s tournament upsets; Women’s NCAA Tournament begins today – https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/arkansas-mcneese-drake-lead-mens-tournament-upsets-womens-ncaa-tournament-begins-today/amp/
- Who is Bennett Stirtz? Everything to know about Drake star who led upset of Missouri – https://fansided.com/who-is-bennett-stirtz-everything-to-know-about-drake-star-who-led-upset-of-missouri
- March Madness bracket update: Men’s NCAA tournament reset after Thursday’s results – https://www.sbnation.com/college-basketball/2025/3/20/24390613/march-madness-bracket-update-2025-men-ncaa-tournament-scores
- Drake’s Division II transfers proving they can win in March Madness – https://www.timesdaily.com/sports/drakes-division-ii-transfers-proving-they-can-win-in-march-madness/article_0123a32f-5a19-4fd0-94b1-14a4e5f4e812.html
- No. 11 seed Drake holds on after blowing big lead and beats Missouri 67-57 in March Madness opener – https://www.goskagit.com/sports/ap/no-11-seed-drake-holds-on-after-blowing-big-lead-and-beats-missouri-67-57/article_9b60826b-da3a-5c4d-8e99-8270b35f2872.html
- March Madness 2025: West region bracket predictions, Cinderella, expert picks, watch times, schedule, odds, betting lines and more – https://sports.yahoo.com/college-basketball/article/march-madness-2025-west-region-bracket-cinderella-expert-picks-schedule-odds-and-more-133905456.html
- Men’s Champ Week tickets punched: All 31 auto-bids tracked here – https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/43734580/mens-college-basketball-champ-week-2025-tournament-brackets-schedule-sites-bids-stats-history
- No. 11 seed Drake holds on after blowing big lead and beats Missouri 67-57 in March Madness opener – https://www.kcrg.com/2025/03/21/no-11-seed-drake-holds-after-blowing-big-lead-beats-missouri-67-57-march-madness-opener-2/
- No. 11 Bulldogs Advance to NCAA Second Round, Take Down No. 6 Missouri – Drake University Athletics – http://godrakebulldogs.com/news/2025/3/20/mens-basketball-no-11-bulldogs-advance-to-ncaa-second-round-take-down-no-6-missouri.aspx
- March Madness’ 50 best players, ranked for 2025 men’s NCAA tournament – https://www.sbnation.com/college-basketball/2025/3/18/24383198/march-madness-best-players-2025-mens-ncaa-tournament-ranked
- Four Things To Know: Mizzou Faces Drake in Round One of March Madness – https://www.si.com/college/missouri/basketball/four-things-to-know-mizzou-faces-drake-in-round-one-of-march-madness-01jpjaprynsg
- The Ultimate 2025 NCAA Tournament NBA Draft Prospect Guide – https://www.noceilingsnba.com/p/the-ultimate-2025-ncaa-tournament
- No. 11 seed Drake holds on after blowing big lead and beats Missouri 67-57 in March Madness opener – https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/no-11-seed-drake-holds-on-after-blowing-big-lead-and-beats-missouri-67-57/article_7f588ac0-4e74-52e9-86a2-f85128ed6092.html
- Who is Bennett Stirtz? Drake star leads Bulldogs to big upset win over Missouri in NCAA Tournament | Sporting News – https://www.sportingnews.com/us/ncaa-basketball/news/bennett-stirtz-drake-missouri-ncaa-tournament/448776e93572f878ae8a7256
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- Drake pulls away for upset win over Missouri in West Region – https://www.thecutoffnews.com/sports/ncaa/drake-pulls-away-for-upset-win-over-missouri-in-west-region/article_31aec1ab-fefe-5b7d-aa08-6e8b3465a276.html
- Last-minute bracket advice, picks as first round of March Madness begins; Texas melts down in First Four – https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/last-minute-bracket-advice-picks-as-first-round-of-march-madness-begins-texas-melts-down-in-first-four/amp/
- Drake’s Division II transfers are proving they can win in March Madness – https://www.tribdem.com/sports/drakes-division-ii-transfers-are-proving-they-can-win-in-march-madness/article_294b879b-673e-5a02-a579-63d70bf7f175.html
- Your guide to men’s March Madness: Contenders, Cinderellas, more – https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/44309569/march-madness-viewers-guide-ncaa-tournament-contenders-cinderellas-2025
- No. 11 seed Drake holds on after blowing big lead and beats Missouri 67-57 in March Madness opener – https://www.register-herald.com/sports/national_sports/no-11-seed-drake-holds-on-after-blowing-big-lead-and-beats-missouri-67-57/article_ff2526a8-e587-515d-a820-2fc0a561c247.html
- March Madness 2025 scores, winners and losers: SEC off to slow start, ACC outright stumbles out of gate – https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/march-madness-2025-scores-winners-and-losers-sec-off-to-slow-start-acc-outright-stumbles-out-of-gate/
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- The Best and Worst from Day 1 of March Madness – https://www.sbnation.com/2025/3/21/24390607/march-madness-2025-scores-highlights-odds-dunks-mcneese-kansas-arkansas
