Drake Bulldogs Defeat Miami Hurricanes 80-69 in Charleston Classic

The Drake University men’s basketball team secured a significant victory over the Miami Hurricanes in the Shriners Children's Charleston Classic on Thursday, November 21. The Bulldogs dominated the game from start to finish, winning 80-69. This win marked Drake’s first victory over a Power Five Conference school since their 58-52 win against Mississippi State on December 20, 2022.

Drake began the game strongly, opening with a 7-0 run that included a three-pointer from Mitch Mascari and field goals from Cam Manyawu and Bennett Stirtz. The Bulldogs extended their lead to as much as 13 points in the first half, with Stirtz scoring 10 points and Mascari and Nate Ferguson contributing eight and six points, respectively. Drake held Miami to just 30% shooting from the floor and outrebounded the Hurricanes 20-12 in the first half.

In the second half, Miami attempted to close the gap, pulling within four points before the under-12 media timeout. However, Drake maintained their lead, largely due to their efficiency from the free throw line, where they went 20-of-21 in the second half. A crucial 7-0 run late in the game, capped by Mascari’s third three-pointer and subsequent free throws, sealed the victory for the Bulldogs.

Individual standout performances included Bennett Stirtz with a game-high 21 points and six assists, and Daniel Abreu with his first double-double of the season, scoring 18 points and grabbing 10 rebounds. Mitch Mascari added 15 points, including three three-pointers. The win evened the series between the two teams at 1-1, avenging Drake’s 63-56 loss to Miami in the 2023 NCAA Tournament.

The Bulldogs’ defensive effort was notable, as they held Miami, which entered the game ranked No. 4 in the NCAA in scoring offense, to a season-low 69 points. Drake also outrebounded Miami 35-23 and committed a season-low six turnovers.