"Drake University Basketball: A Legacy of Success"

The Bulldogs of Drake University have a rich and storied history in basketball. They first took the court in 1903, and have since made their mark on the college basketball landscape.

Early Success

In the early years, Drake was a dominant force in the Missouri Valley Conference. They won their first conference championship in 1915, and went on to win 13 more titles over the next 30 years. During this time, Drake also made several appearances in the NCAA Tournament, reaching the Final Four in 1938.

The Johnny Carson Years

One of the most memorable eras in Drake basketball history came in the 1950s and 1960s, when Johnny Carson was the head coach. Carson, who later went on to become a legendary late-night talk show host, led the Bulldogs to five MVC championships and two NCAA Tournament appearances.

Recent Success

In recent years, Drake has continued to be a competitive force in the MVC. They won the conference championship in 2008 and 2018, and have made several NCAA Tournament appearances since then.

Star Players

Drake has produced a number of talented players over the years, including:

* Dolph Schayes: A Hall of Famer who played for the Bulldogs from 1948-1951.
* Mark Turgeon: A current head coach at Maryland who played for Drake from 1981-1985.
* Josh Young: A first-team All-MVC selection in 2010 and 2011.

The Bulldog Spirit

Drake basketball is known for its passionate fans and its unique game-day atmosphere. The Knapp Center, where the Bulldogs play their home games, is consistently one of the loudest and most intimidating venues in the MVC.

The Future of Drake Basketball

The future of Drake basketball looks bright. The Bulldogs have a young and talented team, and they are led by a promising head coach in Darian DeVries. With a continued commitment to excellence, there is no doubt that Drake will continue to be a force to be reckoned with in the years to come.