UIC Flames Take On Drake Bulldogs in College Basketball Clash

Flames and Bulldogs meet in key Missouri Valley Conference matchup

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The UIC Flames and Drake Bulldogs will face off in a college basketball game on Thursday, February 12, 2026 at the Knapp Center in Des Moines, Iowa. UIC comes into the game with a 13-12 record, having fought their way back above .500 after a slow start to the season. Drake, meanwhile, has struggled with inconsistency, posting a 12-14 record so far this year. This matchup between the two Missouri Valley Conference foes should provide an exciting contest.

Why it matters

This game is an important one for both teams as they look to improve their conference standings and position themselves for a potential postseason berth. UIC is looking to build on their recent success, while Drake is hoping to get back on track after a stretch of losses. The outcome of this game could have significant implications for the rest of the season for both programs.

The details

UIC is led by Ahmad Henderson, who is averaging 14 points per game, and Mekhi Lowery, who adds 13 points and 5 rebounds per contest. The Flames will need to improve their shooting after a poor performance in their last game against Belmont. Drake is paced by Jalen Quinn, who scored 33 points in the team's most recent loss to Valparaiso. The Bulldogs will look to protect their home court advantage at the Knapp Center, where they have had success against Missouri Valley Conference opponents.

  • The game will tip off at 7:30 PM EST on Thursday, February 12, 2026.
  • UIC and Drake last met on January 17, with the Flames winning 74-67 at home.

The players

Ahmad Henderson

The leading scorer for the UIC Flames, averaging 14 points per game.

Mekhi Lowery

A key contributor for UIC, averaging 13 points and 5 rebounds per game.

Jalen Quinn

The top scorer for the Drake Bulldogs, pouring in 33 points in the team's most recent loss.

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What they’re saying

“We have to come out with more energy and focus in the first half if we want to get a win on the road against a tough Drake team.”

— Ahmad Henderson, UIC Flames Guard (pickdawgz.com)

“This is a big game for us as we look to get back on track in conference play. We know UIC is a tough opponent, but we're confident in our ability to protect our home court.”

— Jalen Quinn, Drake Bulldogs Guard (pickdawgz.com)

What’s next

The winner of this game will look to build momentum as they continue their conference schedule, while the loser will aim to rebound in their next matchup.

The takeaway

This game between the UIC Flames and Drake Bulldogs features two teams looking to improve their standing in the Missouri Valley Conference. With both squads showing flashes of strong play this season, this should be an exciting and closely contested matchup that could have significant implications for the rest of the year.