Tuscola Graduate Jalen Quinn Scores 31 in Drake Win, But Loses in MVC Tourney Semifinals

Quinn, a 6-3, 190 guard and 2022 Tuscola grad, had a standout performance in Drake's quarterfinal victory, but the team fell short in the semifinals.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 3:19pm

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Jalen Quinn, a 2022 graduate of Tuscola High School, scored 31 points to lead Drake University to a 100-79 win over top-seeded Belmont in the quarterfinals of the Missouri Valley Conference tournament. However, Drake lost in the semifinals to the University of Illinois at Chicago, 72-51, ending Quinn's season. Quinn finished the year as the MVC's leading scorer, averaging 19.4 points per game.

Why it matters

Quinn's performance highlights his growth as a player since his time at Tuscola High School, where he was a three-time all-state selection. His success at the Division I level showcases the talent that can come out of smaller high school programs and the potential for players to make an impact at the collegiate level.

The details

In the quarterfinal win over Belmont, Quinn played 39 minutes, shooting 8-of-19 from the field, including 2-of-8 from three-point range, and making 13-of-16 free throws. He also contributed three rebounds, four assists, two steals, and a blocked shot. In the semifinal loss to UIC, Quinn led Drake with 14 points, going 4-of-14 from the field and 1-of-7 from three-point range, while making 5-of-7 free throws. He also grabbed three rebounds and had two assists.

  • On March 10, 2026, Quinn scored 31 points in Drake's 100-79 quarterfinal win over Belmont.
  • On March 11, 2026, Quinn's season came to an end as Drake lost 72-51 to UIC in the MVC tournament semifinals.

The players

Jalen Quinn

A 6-3, 190 guard and 2022 graduate of Tuscola High School, who is now a starter for Drake University. He led the Missouri Valley Conference in scoring this season, averaging 19.4 points per game.

Eric Henderson

The first-year head coach of the Drake Bulldogs basketball team.

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What they’re saying

“Jalen Quinn had an outstanding season for us and we're proud of his accomplishments. While we're disappointed to have our tournament run end, we're excited about the future of our program.”

— Eric Henderson, Head Coach, Drake Bulldogs (Drake University Athletics)

What’s next

Quinn will look to build on his successful season and continue to develop his game as he prepares for his senior year at Drake University.

The takeaway

Jalen Quinn's standout performance in the MVC tournament showcases the talent that can emerge from smaller high school programs and the potential for players to make an impact at the Division I level. His success this season is a testament to his hard work and dedication, and it will be exciting to see how he continues to grow and develop as a player in the years to come.