

Des Moines, Iowa – Two of the contenders in the Missouri Valley Conference collide in Des Moines on Wednesday night when Drake hosts UNI.
The Bulldogs are second in the Valley at 8-2. The Panthers are a game back at 7-3. These two programs have combined to win seven Valley regular season and tournament titles during the past decade and Drake coach Ben McCollum says that has elevated the rivalry.
The Bulldogs enter the game riding a six game win streak and McCollum says the Panthers will be a big hurdle.
McCollum has used his bench more in recent weeks and feels the added depth has paid off.
Drake junior point guard Bennett Stirtz leads the Valley in scoring, assists and steals and McCollum says his calm demeanor has been a plus in a number of close games.
UNI coach Ben Jacobson says defense has been a big part of Drake’s success.
The Bulldogs are the Valley’s best defensive team as well as rebounding.
Jacobson says Bennet Stirtz sets the table for the Bulldogs.
Jacobson says the Bulldogs put a lot of pressure on teams at the defensive end.
Drake has won seven of the last nine in the series and the teams traded home court victories last season.