Sorry, Drake fans ... but the NCAA isn't budging on its stance against live mascots at the Big Dance -- the org. tells TMZ Sports despite a petition and his undeniable cuteness, rules are rules.
For those unfamiliar with the policy, the NCAA has banned live mascots from the tourney's early rounds ... and will only make exceptions for the Final Four games, as the host venue would be more able to accommodate an animal's needs.
Instagram/ @drakeugriff
The Drake men's basketball team is the 11th seed in the West Region of the tourney .