NCAA Basketball: Auburn, Gonzaga, Ohio State rise in latest top 25 power rankings

11. Creighton (1-0)

In recent years, Creighton has been established as one of the top programs in the Big East. The Bluejays have had some powerful lineups in recent years; a major reason for success in the NCAA Tournament dating back to the pandemic. While the faces are different again this season, there’s reason for significant optimism on a team that can challenge for another Big East championship.

Creighton’s season didn’t start until Wednesday night but it was quite the opening for the Bluejays. They played UTRGV a bit closer than expected, pulling out a 99-86 victory, but it was all about Ryan Kalkbrenner. The elite defensive center had a career performance with 49 points and 11 rebounds, willing Creighton to the opening win, making 20 of his 22 field goal attempts in the process.

We knew coming into the system that Kalkbrenner was going to be a menace, though question marks remained on other parts of this roster. The backcourt is still a work in progress, especially missing Pop Isaacs in that opening game, but Kalkbrenner is unquestionably a lethal weapon on both sides of the ball. Creighton’s true struggles might not be realized for a few weeks, as its home dates with mid-majors in the seven days ahead.