Busting Brackets
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Butler Basketball: Keys to success at Creighton in 2019-20

By Lukas Harkins

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - JANUARY 04: Kamar Baldwin #3 of the Butler Bulldogs handles the ball against Marcus Zegarowski #11 of the Creighton Bluejays during a game at Hinkle Fieldhouse on January 4, 2020 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Butler defeated Creighton 71-57. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - JANUARY 04: Kamar Baldwin #3 of the Butler Bulldogs handles the ball against Marcus Zegarowski #11 of the Creighton Bluejays during a game at Hinkle Fieldhouse on January 4, 2020 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Butler defeated Creighton 71-57. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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INDIANAPOLIS, IN – FEBRUARY 15: Nze of the Bulldogs looks on. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN – FEBRUARY 15: Nze of the Bulldogs looks on. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

3. Dominate the rebounding battle.

Considering how well Creighton has played over the past few weeks, there are very few areas in which Butler will have a statistical advantage for this contest. The most notable potential edge, though, will come in a critical area as the Dawgs should be able to win the rebounding battle. Creighton ranks sub-250 in both offensive and defensive rebounding rates for the season while Butler is far better in those glass-cleaning statistics.

If Butler looks to attack the basket and Creighton attempts a ton of 3-pointers, the best way to counteract that potential “value per shot attempt” is to build up a possession advantage. It seems unlikely that there will be a sizable difference in turnover numbers in this game as neither team coughs up the ball much or pressures enough to force mistakes. This leaves the rebounding battle for Butler to potentially build momentum.

Butler cannot afford to give up many offensive rebounds in this game as Creighton could bury some back-breaking 3-pointers to ignite the crowd in those situations. Additionally, the Dawgs need to put forth a strong offensive effort in this game. Obviously, making the vast majority of shots would help but securing second-chance opportunities would make a huge difference as well.

Forcing the Bluejays to defend for long possessions and cover multiple shot attempts could force them out of their rhythm. More shot attempts would also obviously lead to more buckets for the visiting Dawgs.