UConn Dominates Creighton, Secures 23rd Big East Tournament Title
The No. 3 UConn Huskies showcased their dominance once again, defeating the No. 22 Creighton Bluejays 70-50 in a commanding performance to capture their 23rd Big East Tournament title. The victory, secured at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut, extends UConn’s remarkable streak to 36 consecutive conference tournament wins and marks their fifth straight Big East Tournament championship.
The game was a testament to UConn’s balanced attack, led by the exceptional play of Paige Bueckers and a stifling defensive effort. Bueckers, a strong contender for national player of the year, finished with a game-high 24 points, earning her the Big East Tournament Most Outstanding Player award for the third consecutive year – a feat unmatched in Big East history. She also contributed eight rebounds, three assists, two blocks, and two steals, solidifying her impact on both ends of the court. Throughout the three tournament games, Bueckers averaged an impressive 22.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4 assists.
While Bueckers spearheaded the offensive charge, she received valuable support from Azzi Fudd and freshman sensation Sarah Strong, who combined for 50 points – matching Creighton’s total score for the night. However, it was UConn’s defense that truly set the tone for the game. The Huskies forced 19 turnovers, including 13 steals and five blocks, disrupting Creighton’s offensive flow and limiting their scoring opportunities. UConn held the Bluejays to a meager 35.8% shooting from the field and an even more dismal 26.1% from beyond the arc.
UConn’s defensive prowess extended to containing Creighton’s top scorers, Lauren Jensen and Morgan Maly. The duo was held to a combined 25 points on a combined 9-of-25 shooting from the field, a significant drop-off from their usual production. This defensive lockdown effectively neutralized Creighton’s offensive threats and prevented them from mounting any serious comeback attempts.
The game began with UConn asserting their dominance early, jumping out to a 27-11 lead after the first quarter. Their offensive efficiency, coupled with their relentless defense, left Creighton struggling to find their rhythm. The Huskies maintained their momentum throughout the game, never relinquishing their lead and consistently answering any Creighton surge.
Despite the loss, Creighton remains well-positioned for a March Madness berth. ESPN’s Charlie Creme projected UConn as a No. 2 seed and Creighton as a No. 8 seed prior to the game, highlighting the strength of both programs. With the Big East’s automatic bid secured by UConn, Creighton will rely on their overall record and performance throughout the season to earn an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament.
The victory signifies UConn’s continued reign as a force in women’s college basketball. Geno Auriemma’s squad has consistently demonstrated its ability to compete at the highest level, showcasing a blend of talent, experience, and coaching expertise. Their impressive tournament run and dominant performance against Creighton serve as a clear message to their competitors: UConn is a serious contender for the national championship.
The game also highlighted the continued development and growth of Paige Bueckers. After overcoming injuries that hampered her previous seasons, Bueckers has returned to form, leading UConn with her exceptional scoring ability, court vision, and defensive contributions. Her leadership and all-around excellence will be crucial as UConn navigates the challenges of March Madness.
The victory over Creighton marked the first postseason meeting between the two teams since UConn rejoined the Big East before the 2020-21 season. The Huskies have maintained their dominance in the series, extending their winning streak against the Bluejays to 11-0.
As the NCAA Tournament approaches, UConn enters as one of the favorites, boasting a strong resume and a team capable of competing with any opponent. Their combination of elite talent, experienced leadership, and defensive tenacity makes them a formidable force in the quest for a national championship.
The loss for Creighton serves as a valuable learning experience. The Bluejays will undoubtedly analyze the game, identify areas for improvement, and prepare to make a strong showing in the NCAA Tournament. Their ability to bounce back from this defeat will be crucial as they face the challenges of March Madness.
The Big East Tournament championship game provided a captivating showcase of women’s college basketball, featuring two of the conference’s top programs. UConn’s dominant performance reaffirmed their status as a national powerhouse, while Creighton demonstrated their potential to compete at the highest level. As both teams prepare for the NCAA Tournament, they will undoubtedly be among the teams to watch as the excitement of March Madness unfolds.
The game concluded with UConn celebrating their 23rd Big East Tournament title, a testament to their enduring legacy and unwavering commitment to excellence. The Huskies will now turn their attention to the NCAA Tournament, where they will seek to add another chapter to their storied history.
