“This stage allows you to pass a message, which is tough kids, connected kids, kids that love each other and serve each other still can win,” Drake coach Ben McCollum said after his team improved to 31-3. “Kids that maintain a level of loyalty, kids that are just awesome to be around can still win.”

Drake's defense made it tough for Missouri to score, and the Bulldogs held off the Tigers' late surge to advance to the second round.