NCAA Basketball: Ranking the 8 teams in 2021 ESPN Events Invitational

NCAA Basketball: Ranking the 8 teams in the 2021 ESPN Events Invitational

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - MARCH 27: Kevin Obanor #0 of the Oral Roberts Golden Eagles and Jaylin Williams #10 of the Arkansas Razorbacks jump for the opening tip off in the Sweet Sixteen round of the 2021 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on March 27, 2021 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images) /

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ESPN Events Invitational NCAA Basketball Drake junior guard Roman Penn 20210213 Drakevsloyola /

4. Drake Bulldogs

The Bulldogs mowed through the start of the 2020-2021 season, winner of their first 18 games en route to 25-3 season. Head coach Darren DeVries will be returning the majority of his core from last season outside of Joesph Yesufu (as I stated in the preview). If Drake wants to continue to make the Missouri Valley a multiple bid league showing out in this tournament could earn them so credibility when it’s all said and done.

Tank Hemphill will be the top dog in coach DeVries’ arsenal next season after being in and out of the fold next year. In his 22 games, he gave the team 13.2 points and 5.9 rebounds. The 6’6 swingman is an excellent defender who can switch off screens and defined multiple positions on the court.

Also is a “tank” on his way to the basket and is crafty around the rim. Roman Penn will be the lead man at the point guard position for the Bulldogs. Similar to Hemphill he struggled with some injuries last year but was highly productive in his 24 games. Drake also returns leading three-point man DJ Wilkins who shot over 40% from deep last season.

This a veteran Drake team that will not be intimidated seeing some bigger-name schools in the field. The Bulldogs defend too well to a be first-round out and could be dangerous against some less inexperienced teams If the Missouri Valley wants another two-bid season, Drake needs to show out well in this invitational.

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