Drake hosted Loyola of Chicago for the final time as a conference opponent Sunday. The Ramblers are set to join the Atlantic 10 conference after this season.
But Sunday’s game at the Knapp Center was all about control of the Missouri Valley Conference. Loyola was at the top of the standings entering the game. Drake was right behind the Ramblers in the second spot. The Bulldogs won 77-68 to earn a tie for first place in the league. Both teams are 7-2 in the Valley.
Drake coach Darian DeVries said, “Our guys are playing with a lot of confidence right now, they believe in one another. It was a great win. (Loyola) is a very, very good team and we’re excited to be able to get this one here at home.”
D.J. Wilkins led Drake with 20 points. Tucker DeVries and Garrett Sturtz added 13 apiece. Darnell Brodie pulled down 10 rebounds for the Bulldogs (16-6).
Chris Knight led Loyola (16-4) with 15 points.
