In an exciting showdown in the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) tournament, the Drake Bulldogs basketball team triumphed over the Southern Illinois Salukis with a final score of 70-53. This impressive victory not only showcased the team’s skill and determination but also marked their continued advancement to the semifinals of the tournament. Drake’s strong performance highlights their growing momentum as they push for a championship title.
Isaia Howard Lights Up the Court
Freshman player Isaia Howard really stole the show during this match, scoring a career-high 21 points. Howard was especially impressive from behind the three-point line, sinking three crucial shots that helped Drake establish a strong lead. His energy on the court was contagious, and fans couldn’t help but cheer him on as he played a total of 36 minutes during the game. Not only did he help on offense, but he made significant contributions to the defense as well, with six steals and a block that left the crowd roaring.
Drake’s Solid Defense Shines
A key part of Drake’s victory was their tight defense, which really limited the Southern Illinois scoring opportunities. The Bulldogs forced their opponents into making 15 turnovers, which certainly played a big role in keeping Southern Illinois to their lowest point total of the season. This strong defensive effort showed just how committed the Bulldogs are to winning, and it’s clear their strategy is paying off.
Strong Team Contributions
While Howard was a standout star, he wasn’t the only player stepping up for Drake. Tavian Banks contributed significantly with 10 points and 11 rebounds, showcasing his skills both offensively and defensively. The teamwork on display from the Bulldogs emphasized their collective strength, as they rallied together to outplay their competition. The level of support and encouragement among teammates was evident throughout the game, making for an exciting experience for everyone involved.
Drake’s Path Forward
After claiming victory over Southern Illinois, Drake’s basketball record has improved to an impressive 28 wins against only 3 losses. With such a strong performance in the tournament so far, they are set to face off against Belmont in the semifinals on Saturday at 2:30 p.m. Fans and supporters of the Bulldogs are eagerly looking forward to seeing if their team can continue this winning streak and capture the MVC championship.
The Excitement Builds
As the countdown to the semifinals begins, the team is feeling more confident than ever. The anticipation of the upcoming game against Belmont is palpable within the community, with fans already buzzing about their chances to secure another victory. Drake’s advancement to this stage of the tournament reiterates their hard work, dedication, and excellent coaching. This tournament is not just about basketball; it’s also about school spirit, community support, and the pride of representing their university on a national level.
| Game Summary | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | March 7, 2026 |
| Final Score | Drake 70 – Southern Illinois 53 |
| Top Scorer | Isaia Howard – 21 Points |
| Next Game | Against Belmont on March 9, 2026 |
As we look forward to the semifinals, everyone can’t help but wonder: can the Bulldogs keep the winning momentum going? Stay tuned as Drake basketball continues its exciting journey through the MVC tournament!
