“This stage allows you to pass a message, which is tough kids, connected kids, kids that love each other and serve each other still can win,” Drake coach Ben McCollum said after his team improved to 31-3. “Kids that maintain a level of loyalty, kids that are just awesome to be around can still win.”

There isn't much more that needs to be said about the 2025 Larry Bird Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Year. But with the shot clock winding down, the triple pushed Drake's second-half lead to 50-39.