Neal’s Dunk Ends Game Upsets Huskies
Photo: Special to the NY Beacon
By Shara Talia Taylor
The Creighton Bluejays made it to the finals of the Big East Tournaments after a 71-62 victory over the defending champions, the UConn Huskies Friday night at Madison Square Garden.
It’s the Bluejays 5th time returning to the finals in search of their first championship since joining the league in the 2013-2014 season. Jasen Green, who had a career-high 19 points, and Jamiya Neal, who also had 19 points led the team in scoring.
“I couldn’t be more proud of our team,” said Creighton Bluejays Head Coach Greg McDermott. “UConn’s offense is very complex. There’s a lot to it. A lot of movement, a lot of screening.”
McDermott became Creighton’s all-time winningest coach in the fall surpassing Dana Altman’s school record.
Creighton led 46-35 at half time. There was a possibility UConn could have made a comeback as they did against Villanova Thursday night.
“We just strung together some stops, and we were able to get out in transition and get some easy baskets,” Hassan Diarra said about playing Villanova in the second half of Thursday’s game compared to playing Creighton.
UConn scored 42 points in the second half of their matchup against Villanova Thursday and only 27 points in the second half of their game against Creighton. UConn was within three points of tying the score in the second half, but Creighton maintained their defense.
Creighton forced six turnovers in the game. UConn forced four turnovers in the game. Liam McNeeley led and Solo Ball led UConn with 13 points each.
Creighton will face off against the St. John’s Red Storm Saturday evening at Madison Square Garden.
Recent Comments