DES MOINES, Iowa – The Drake men's and women's basketball teams were on display last night for the fourth annual Drake Hoops Fest in downtown Des Moines. Bulldog fans flocked to Brenton Skating Plaza where the festivities were being held.
The night started with a Youth Clinic for area kids. Players from both the men's and women's teams guided dozens of local youth hoopers through shooting, passing, defense, and other drills.
The Drake-centric events began at 6 p.m. with a performance by the Bulldog cheer and dance teams. Then, the Bulldog volleyball, cross country, and men's soccer teams were introduced to the crowd ahead of a packed weekend on Drake's campus. The basketball squads were next as each player and staff member was introduced individually, starting with defending MVC Player of the Year Katie Dinnebier and the women's team, and finishing with the refreshed men's program.
Players and coaches from both teams went head-to-head in various games including Hot Shot, a Relay Race, a three-point contest, and other competitions. In the final event of the evening, Eli Shetlar took down Grace Knutson in the three-point contest finals.
The night culminated with a meet-and-greet and autograph session with all players. The Bulldogs celebrated another successful Hoops Fest as Des Moines' Hometown Team.
Tickets for Drake men's and women's basketball are available for purchase
here.