Drake is off to a 7-1 start and consistent play from center Darnell Brodie has been a major factor. The Seton Hall transfer is averaging over seven points and nearly seven rebounds while playing about 24 minutes per game. All of those numbers are up over last year and he even had five assists in Saturday’s win over Illinois-Chicago.

That’s Drake coach Darien DeVries who says Brodie’s improved play allows them to run sets through him at times.

Brodie says after last season he went to work to prepare his mind and body for his final season.

The Bulldogs host Omaha tonight (Wednesday night).