Drake University secured a victory over Valparaiso with a final score of 81-71 on Wednesday evening, led by an impressive performance from Bennett Stirtz, who scored 24 points.

Stirtz showcased his all-around skills, adding nine assists, five rebounds, and three steals for the Bulldogs, currently boasting a record of 17 wins and 2 losses, as well as 7 wins and 2 losses in the Missouri Valley Conference.

Mitch Mascari contributed significantly to the win as well, scoring 21 points while shooting 7 of 12 overall, including 5 of 9 from three-point range. Daniel Abreu also played a key role, finishing with 11 points from 2 of 2 shooting and successfully hitting 5 of 6 free-throw attempts.

For Valparaiso, which now stands at 10-10 overall and 3-6 in conference play, Jefferson Monegro was the standout performer, putting up 16 points. All Wright added another 15 points, while Cooper Schwieger contributed 14 points and grabbed six rebounds.

Drake took control of the game early, establishing the lead with just under 12 minutes remaining in the first half and maintaining it for the rest of the contest. By halftime, the Bulldogs were ahead 43-29, with Stirtz scoring 12 points in the first half.

Although Valparaiso managed to outscore Drake by four points in the second half, the Bulldogs held on for the win, thanks in part to Stirtz’s continued strong play, as he added another 12 points in the second period.