A Heartbreaking Finale: Drake's Non-Conference Journey Comes to an End
In a thrilling showdown at the Knapp Center, Des Moines, Iowa, Drake's basketball team faced a challenging opponent in North Dakota State (NDSU). Despite a valiant effort, the Bulldogs fell just short, losing 99-94 in a game that had fans on the edge of their seats.
The atmosphere was electric as both teams displayed exceptional shooting skills. Drake's trio of Eli Shetlar, Owen Larson, and Jaehshon Thomas lit up the court with their three-point prowess, but NDSU kept pace with an incredible 73% field goal percentage in the early stages. The Bison's hot hand from beyond the arc, including a perfect 4-for-4 start, gave them a seven-point lead, which only fueled the competitive fire in the Bulldogs.
But here's where it gets controversial... NDSU's Treyson Anderson stepped up, extending their lead with back-to-back triples. However, Drake's young guns, Jalen Quinn and Jaehshon Thomas, responded with a quick 8-0 run, showcasing their long-range capabilities. The Bison, not to be outdone, answered with a 10-2 run of their own, maintaining a double-digit lead heading into the half.
As the second half commenced, the pace picked up even more. Andrew Alia stepped up for Drake, knocking down consecutive three-pointers, but NDSU's long-range shooting prowess continued unabated. The Bison's 17th three-pointer of the game gave them their largest lead, but Drake refused to back down.
In a thrilling comeback attempt, Drake trimmed the deficit to just six points with under four minutes left. Junior Andrew Alia's three-point basket kept the Bulldogs in the hunt, but ultimately, NDSU's Damari Wheeler-Thomas sealed the deal with a crucial free throw.
"You've got to give NDSU credit," said Drake's head coach Eric Henderson. "They played with intensity and shot the lights out. We struggled to find our defensive rhythm, especially in the first half. Despite our efforts, the Bison's hot shooting proved to be the difference."
And this is the part most people miss... Despite the loss, Drake's performance showcased their offensive capabilities. The Bulldogs shot an impressive 51.9% from the field and an astonishing 51.9% from three-point range. Senior guard Jaden Quinn led the way with 24 points and a perfect 12-for-12 from the free-throw line, tying a school record. Redshirt sophomore Eli Shetlar, in his first collegiate start, scored a career-high 16 points, including five three-pointers.
As Drake moves on to their Missouri Valley Conference opener against Murray State, the team will look to build on their offensive strengths and find their defensive identity. The Bulldogs' home record of 102-15 since the 2018-19 campaign speaks to their resilience and determination.
So, what do you think? Was NDSU's hot shooting the deciding factor, or did Drake's offensive showcase give them a glimpse of their potential? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's discuss!
