In Evansville, Indiana, Daniel Abreu was a standout player with 19 points, leading Drake to a close 65-61 victory over Evansville on Wednesday night. This triumph secured Drake the outright Missouri Valley Conference title, a feat not accomplished since the 2007-08 season.
Abreu also contributed five rebounds for the Bulldogs, who improve to a 26-3 record overall and 16-3 in the Missouri Valley Conference. Tavion Banks provided valuable support with 15 points and five rebounds, while Bennett Stirtz added 14 points, successfully shooting 5 of 10 from the field, including 1 for 5 from beyond the arc, and perfect at the free-throw line with 3 for 3.
For the Purple Aces, Tayshawn Comer was the top scorer, accumulating 20 points. The team also saw contributions from Tanner Cuff, who added 14 points, and Gabriel Pozzato, who scored nine points while pulling down six rebounds and dishing out four assists.
At halftime, Drake held a steady lead of 38-27. Abreu was pivotal in this effort, scoring 11 points in the first half. A crucial layup by Abreu with 9:04 remaining in the second half secured Drake’s lead at 50-49, a lead they held until the final buzzer.
Looking ahead, both teams are set to conclude the regular season on Sunday. Drake will face Missouri State at home, while Evansville is set to play against Illinois State on the road.
