Bryce Drew was born on September 21, 1974, in Louisiana, into a basketball-loving family. His father, Homer Drew, was a successful college basketball coach, and his older brother, Scott Drew, would go on to become a head coach as well. Basketball was in Bryce's blood from a young age, and he quickly developed a passion for the game.
After a standout high school career, Bryce Drew went on to play college basketball at Valparaiso University. He quickly made a name for himself as a sharpshooter and clutch performer, leading the Crusaders to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances. However, it was his performance in the 1998 tournament that solidified his place in Valparaiso University lore.
In the first round of the 1998 NCAA Tournament, Valparaiso found themselves down by two points with just seconds remaining. In a now-famous play known as "The Shot," Bryce Drew hit a game-winning three-pointer at the buzzer to secure the victory. This shot not only propelled the Crusaders to the Sweet 16 but also cemented Bryce's status as a Valparaiso University legend.
After college, Bryce Drew went on to have a brief stint in the NBA before playing professionally in Europe for a couple of seasons. However, he soon realized that his true passion lay in coaching. In 2005, he returned to Valparaiso University as an assistant coach, learning the ropes under his father and gaining valuable experience.
In 2011, Bryce Drew was promoted to head coach of the Crusaders, following in his father's footsteps. He quickly made an impact, leading the team to the second round of the NCAA Tournament in 2013. Under his leadership, Valparaiso University continued to excel both on and off the court, solidifying Bryce's reputation as a talented and dedicated coach.
Bryce Drew comes from a basketball family, with his father and brother both having successful coaching careers. His brother-in-law, Casey Shaw, also had a professional basketball career, playing for the Philadelphia 76ers. Bryce's legacy at Valparaiso University is one of greatness and success, both as a player and a coach.
In summary, Bryce Drew's journey from college basketball star to successful head coach is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and love for the game. He will always be remembered for his iconic shot in the 1998 NCAA Tournament and his continued success at Valparaiso University.