NCAA Basketball: North Carolina, Gonzaga still sit atop updated top 25 ranking
By Joey Loose
9. Creighton (2-0)
With the sheer amount of talent at Creighton this season, it’s no wonder that the Bluejays had their highest preseason ranking in program history. It’s not a surprise with pieces like Ryan Kalkbrenner and Arthur Kaluma back, plus a big addition in Baylor Scheierman, the transfer from South Dakota State. What may come as a surprise is how this team struggled at times on opening night.
They pulled away late for a 72-60 win over St. Thomas, but the Bluejays were trailing in that game with less than ten minutes remaining, a game many expected them to win with ease. Kaluma had 17 points to lead the way, as the team shot just 23% from long range. Fortunately, it was business as usual three days later, as they won a laugher over North Dakota, taking down the Fighting Hawks 96-61. Kalkbrenner led the way with 24 points, making 10 of his 11 field goal attempts in the easy win.
No team is perfect, but the Bluejays figured it out after a slow start against the Tommies back on Monday. Their starting five is about as talented and experienced as any you’ll find in the country; it all comes down to how they’ll work together in the future. The shooting was much better against North Dakota, though Scheierman is still working on his touch at Creighton. Next week presents two more easy tune-ups, as the Bluejays will host Holy Cross and UC Riverside in the coming days.