Drake University surged past Illinois State University in the second half to win the opening game of the Missouri Valley Conference Tournament 75-65.
The Bulldogs held a 38-36 halftime lead, but outscored Illinois State 37-29 after the break to secure the victory.
The Redbirds went on a 14-1 run midway through the second half to cut their deficit to 56-52 with 6:49 remaining, but the Bulldogs pulled away at the end.
“I thought it was a great effort by our guys tonight,” Drake head coach Darian DeVries said. “It was great to see them playing a little loose and free.