The Big East Tournament Delivers Another Thriller: Creighton vs. DePaul
The Big East Tournament once again proved why it’s one of the most electrifying events in college basketball. In a game that seemed predictable on paper, the No. 10-seeded DePaul Blue Demons put up a fierce fight against the No. 2-seeded Creighton Bluejays. The sold-out crowd at Madison Square Garden witnessed a nail-biting contest that went into double overtime for the first time since 2012. Creighton, led by All-American candidate Ryan Kalkbrenner, staged an incredible comeback, overcoming a 15-point halftime deficit to secure an 85-81 victory. The win kept the Bluejays’ championship hopes alive, advancing them to the next round of the tournament.
A Game of Two Halves: DePaul’s Strong Start and Creighton’s Resilient Comeback
The game began with DePaul dominating the first half, showcasing their improvement under first-year head coach Chris Holtmann. The Blue Demons, who had failed to secure a single conference win in the previous season, looked like a transformed team, taking a 15-point lead into halftime. Their offensive execution and defensive intensity had Creighton struggling to find rhythm. However, the Bluejays refused to back down. Led by Kalkbrenner, who finished with 32 points and 9 rebounds, Creighton mounted a improbable comeback. Fedor Zugic, a freshman from Montenegro, ignited the rally with back-to-back three-pointers, and Kalkbrenner’s clutch performances in critical moments sealed the deal. The game tied at 62 with just seconds left in regulation, setting the stage for a thrilling overtime period.
Ryan Kalkbrenner: The Heart and Soul of Creighton’s Victory
Ryan Kalkbrenner was the driving force behind Creighton’s victory. The senior big man delivered a performance for the ages, scoring 32 points and grabbing 9 rebounds. His go-ahead bucket in the final minutes of overtime and a tough finish that put Creighton up 79-76 with 1:31 left were pivotal moments in the game. Kalkbrenner’s leadership and resilience were evident as he willed his team to victory. After the game, he emphasized the importance of teamwork, saying, “You don’t have comebacks like that without being together and sticking with each other and not giving up on each other.” His comments highlighted the unity and trust within the Creighton squad, which proved to be the difference-maker in the high-stakes game.
DePaul’s Growth and Fedor Zugic’s Breakout Moment
While Creighton celebrated their hard-fought win, DePaul’s performance was a testament to their growth under Coach Holtmann. After a dismal previous season with no conference wins, the Blue Demons secured five league victories this year, signaling a turnaround. One of the brightest spots for DePaul was the emergence of Fedor Zugic, a freshman who became eligible in December. Zugic’s back-to-back three-pointers in the second half were instrumental in keeping Creighton in the game. His father, who stayed up till 3 a.m. in Europe to watch the game, couldn’t have been prouder. Zugic’s story is a reminder of the opportunities and challenges faced by international players in college basketball, and his performance was a defining moment in an already memorable season for DePaul.
Creighton’s NCAA Tournament Dreams and the Road Ahead
The win over DePaul may not significantly impact Creighton’s NCAA Tournament seeding, as they are projected to be a No. 9 seed in Mike DeCourcy’s latest bracket. However, the victory carries immense importance for the team’s confidence as they prepare for March Madness. Avoiding a loss that could have been demoralizing, Creighton instead advanced to the semifinals of the Big East Tournament, where they will face either UConn or Villanova. For Kalkbrenner and his teammates, the opportunity to compete for a Big East Championship is a historic moment. “I really, really want this championship,” Kalkbrenner said. “It’s something we’ve never gotten at Creighton. To survive for another night here means everything.” The Bluejays’ journey is far from over, and their resilience in this game shows they have the heart to go all the way.
A Night to Remember at Madison Square Garden
The game between Creighton and DePaul was more than just a basketball contest—it was a showcase of grit, determination, and the unbreakable spirit of college athletes. The sold-out crowd at Madison Square Garden witnessed basketball at its finest, with every possession, every shot, and every defensive stop carrying immense weight. The double-overtime thriller will be remembered as one of the highlights of the 2023-24 college basketball season. For Creighton, it’s a step closer to history. For DePaul, it’s a reminder of how far they’ve come and the promise of what’s to come. As the tournament progresses, one thing is certain: the Big East Tournament never disappoints, and this game will be etched in the memories of players, coaches, and fans for years to come.
Michael Cohen and John Fanta, who covered the game for FOX Sports, captured the essence of the night, highlighting the drama, the heroics, and the unforgettable moments that make college basketball so special. Their reporting brought the game to life for fans across the country, reminding everyone why the Big East Tournament is a must-watch event. As the tournament continues, one question lingers: What’s next for these teams? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure—this game will be remembered as a classic.
