Scott Drew’s Baylor Bears topped his brother Bryce’s Grand Canyon Lopes 79–74 in a thrilling exhibition game at Foster Pavilion. Here’s how the family rivalry unfolded on the court.
A Family Showdown at Foster Pavilion
It was more than just another basketball exhibition in Waco, Texas — it was a Drew family reunion on the hardwood. Baylor head coach Scott Drew and his younger brother Bryce Drew, head coach of Grand Canyon University, faced off in a highly anticipated exhibition matchup that brought both competition and nostalgia to Foster Pavilion.
The game ended with Scott earning the family bragging rights for now, as his new-look Baylor Bears rallied from an early deficit to secure a 79–74 victory over Bryce’s Grand Canyon Lopes.
A Rivalry Rooted in Family and Respect
The Drew family legacy runs deep in college basketball. Their father, Homer Drew, a College Basketball Hall of Famer, built his own impressive career at Valparaiso with 640 wins. Watching his two sons coach against each other was more than a proud moment — it was a continuation of a coaching dynasty.
“The great thing is I knew a Drew would win,” Homer joked after the game, smiling as both sons shared mutual respect. “But what makes me proudest is how they helped each other prepare for this game.”
For both brothers, this wasn’t just about winning — it was about learning and growing together, even on opposite sidelines.
Scott Drew’s New-Look Baylor Shows Promise
Despite returning zero players from last season, Baylor displayed remarkable composure. The Bears fell behind early, missing 12 of their first 18 shots, but Cincinnati transfer Dan Skillings Jr. stepped up big, scoring 11 of his 17 points in the first half to give Baylor a 39–35 halftime lead.
Scott Drew, now in his 23rd season at Baylor, praised his team’s resilience and teamwork:
“One thing good about our team thus far is that everyone has really celebrated each other,” Drew said. “That allows you to be successful and win more games than people think you can.”
Bryce Drew’s Lopes Bring the Fight
On the other side, Bryce Drew’s Grand Canyon Lopes showed why they’re projected as a top-three team in the Mountain West preseason rankings. Led by UNLV transfer Jaden Henley, who exploded for 28 points, the Lopes fought back late, cutting Baylor’s double-digit lead to just one possession twice in the final minutes.
“Thought it was great for both of us to have a close, competitive game,” Bryce said. “Scott’s players have developed so much. You can see it even from last year’s film.”
Cameron Carr and Tounde Yessoufou Shine for Baylor
Baylor’s Cameron Carr and Tounde Yessoufou were instrumental in the second half, combining for five three-pointers and 41 points. Their energy stretched Baylor’s lead and gave the young team confidence heading into the season.
Meanwhile, Gonzaga transfer Dusty Stromer contributed 15 points for GCU, showing the depth and versatility Bryce Drew has built within his roster.
Homer Drew’s Verdict: Both Teams Will Surprise
After the game, Homer Drew joined his sons for the postgame press conference. His assessment was optimistic for both programs:
“They’re deep, they’ve got athletes, and they’ve got players who want to get better,” Homer said. “I think both teams are going to surprise in their conferences.”
That endorsement carries weight — especially from a man who built his own legacy on discipline, development, and family values.
What’s Next for Baylor and GCU
The exhibition game was a valuable test run. Baylor now turns its attention to Indiana in its final exhibition game on October 26 before officially opening the regular season November 3 against UTRGV.
As for Grand Canyon, Bryce’s squad will take lessons from this matchup as they prepare to contend for another NCAA Tournament berth — their fifth in six seasons under his leadership.
Conclusion
In a battle of bloodlines and basketball strategy, Scott Drew came out on top, but the night was truly a win for the entire Drew family. The matchup was competitive, emotional, and deeply meaningful — a reflection of what college basketball is all about.
For now, Scott has the bragging rights. But as Bryce joked after the game, “Hopefully next time, big brother lets me win.”
