## New Era Dawns: Drake Bulldogs Turn to Eric Henderson for Basketball Renaissance The Drake Bulldogs are entering a new chapter. After a rollercoaster season that saw both highs and lows, the program has made a bold move, welcoming Eric Henderson as their new head coach. Henderson, a seasoned veteran with a winning pedigree, arrives in Des Moines ready to inject fresh energy and ambition into the Bulldogs’ basketball program. But can he lead them to the promised land of NCAA tournament victories? Let’s break down Henderson’s impressive track record and what this means for the future of Drake basketball.
What This Means for Drake Basketball
The hiring of Eric Henderson as the new head coach of Drake basketball is a significant move that is expected to build on the recent success of the program. With high expectations already in place, Henderson’s arrival is seen as a key step in maintaining the momentum gained under his predecessors, Ben McCollum and Darian DeVries.
Building on Recent Success and High Expectations
In the 2024-25 season, the Bulldogs enjoyed a remarkable campaign, finishing with a 31-4 overall record and securing a first-round victory in the NCAA Tournament. This level of success has raised the bar for the program, and Henderson will be tasked with meeting these lofty expectations.
With Henderson’s proven track record of success at South Dakota State, including two NCAA Tournament appearances and four Summit League regular season titles, the Bulldogs are expecting to continue their upward trajectory. Henderson’s ability to build strong relationships with his players and his emphasis on teamwork will be crucial in maintaining the program’s high level of performance.
The Impact on the Program and the Missouri Valley Conference
Henderson’s hiring is not only significant for Drake basketball but also for the Missouri Valley Conference as a whole. The conference has seen a surge in competitiveness in recent years, with teams like Loyola-Chicago and Bradley making deep NCAA Tournament runs.
With Henderson at the helm, the Bulldogs are expected to be a major contender in the conference, which will only add to the already intense rivalries within the Missouri Valley Conference. His experience in building a strong program at South Dakota State will be invaluable in helping Drake navigate the challenges of the conference.
Getting to Know Eric Henderson
As the new head coach of Drake basketball, Eric Henderson brings a wealth of experience and a strong coaching philosophy to the program. A native Iowan, Henderson has built a reputation as a talented coach who is able to build strong relationships with his players and get the most out of his teams.
A Iowa Native with Ties to the State
Henderson’s roots in Iowa run deep, having grown up in Coggon and graduated from Maquoketa Valley High School. His ties to the state are strong, and his familiarity with the region will be an asset in recruiting top talent to Drake.
As a player, Henderson suited up for Wayne State (Neb.), where he played for current Creighton head coach Greg McDermott. His experience playing for McDermott, who is known for his strong coaching philosophy, will undoubtedly shape his own approach to the game.
His Coaching Philosophy and Style: What to Expect
Henderson’s coaching philosophy is built around teamwork, discipline, and a strong work ethic. He is known for his ability to build strong relationships with his players, which has been instrumental in his success at South Dakota State.
On the court, Henderson’s teams are known for their tenacious defense and efficient offense. He has a reputation for being able to adapt his system to the strengths of his players, which has allowed him to consistently produce winning teams.
As he takes the reins at Drake, Henderson’s coaching philosophy and style will be critical in shaping the identity of the program and building on the success of his predecessors.
From Assistant to Head Coach: Henderson’s Rise in the Ranks
Eric Henderson’s rise to becoming the head coach of Drake basketball is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and natural ability as a coach. From his early days as an assistant coach to his successful stint as the head coach at South Dakota State, Henderson has consistently demonstrated his ability to build strong programs and develop talented players.
The Connection to Iowa and the Midwest
Henderson’s connection to Iowa and the Midwest is a significant factor in his hiring as the head coach of Drake basketball. His experience playing and coaching in the region has given him a deep understanding of the landscape and a strong network of contacts.
As an assistant coach at Iowa State under T.J. Otzelberger, Henderson gained valuable experience and developed a strong understanding of the inner workings of a successful program. His time in the Midwest has also given him a deep appreciation for the region’s basketball tradition and a strong desire to be a part of it.
Conclusion
As the Des Moines Register reported, Drake University has made a pivotal move in the world of college basketball by hiring Eric Henderson as its new head coach. This strategic decision marks a significant shift for the program, stemming from a thorough search process that aimed to find the right leader to propel the Bulldogs to new heights. With Henderson’s impressive coaching background, including a stint as an assistant coach at Notre Dame, the university has signaled its commitment to competitiveness and growth.
The significance of this hire cannot be overstated, as it sets the stage for a new era in Drake basketball. Henderson’s expertise and leadership will undoubtedly have a profound impact on the team’s performance, and his ability to attract top talent will be crucial in shaping the program’s future. Moreover, this move reflects the university’s dedication to providing its student-athletes with a world-class education and a platform to excel in their chosen sport. As the college basketball landscape continues to evolve, Drake’s decision to invest in Henderson’s leadership will undoubtedly pay dividends in the years to come.