The University of Drake will travel to Idaho Falls, Idaho, to take part in the first ever Snake River Invitational, a three‑day basketball showcase that runs from November 27 through 29 at the Mountain America Center.
The Bulldogs are slated to meet three opponents over the course of the event, opening with Boise State on the 27th, followed by a clash with North Dakota State on the 28th, and concluding against North Texas on the 29th. Each game will be part of a compact schedule that promises tight competition and a test of early‑season form.
Coach Eric Henderson, who has guided Drake through a period of rapid improvement, said the venue’s scenic setting adds a special flavor to the tournament. “Playing in such a beautiful part of Idaho is a great opportunity for our guys,” he remarked, emphasizing the team’s focus on execution and discipline.
Historic rivalries and new horizons
Boise State, now a member of the re‑formed Pac‑12 Conference, arrives with a recent track record of NCAA Tournament appearances in 2022, 2023 and 2024, giving the Bulldogs a formidable opponent to start with.
North Dakota State brings a strong résumé as well, having captured the Summit League title in the 2025‑26 season and earning a berth in the national tournament, a feat that underscores the Bison’s consistent rise.
North Texas, a program that has posted a 30‑7 record against Drake historically, will look to avenge a narrow 57‑54 loss from 2021, adding another layer of intrigue to the matchup.
The tournament also serves as a showcase for the Mountain America Center, a modern facility that has quickly become a hub for collegiate athletics in the region. Tickets are currently on sale through the venue’s website, allowing fans to secure seats for what promises to be a series of competitive games.