ST. LOUIS, Mo. – Bennett Stirtz and has been named Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Week, the league announced on Monday afternoon.
 
Stirtz averaged 21.0 points, 6.5 assists, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.5 steals in Drake's two wins over Valparaiso and Missouri State last week.  He led the Bulldogs in scoring in both contests going for 24 points against the Beacons and 18 points against the Bears.  Stirtz was efficient from the free throw line going 17-for-19 (89%) over Drake's two games including a perfect 11-for-11 performance against Valpo.  His 11 free throws against Valpo marked a season high and tied his season high for free throw attempts.  He led the charge for Drake in the overtime win over Missouri State scoring six of the teams 14 points in the extra frame to secure the victory.  He had 13 total assists against only one turnover last week in Drake's two victories. This marks the second MVC Player of the Week accolade for Stirtz this season.
 
Drake returns to action on Wednesday, Jan. 29 from the Knapp Center as it hosts in-state rival UNI. Tipoff from Des Moines is scheduled for 6 p.m.