Creighton Stuns No. 1 Kansas: A Historic Upset in College Basketball
Introduction
December 4, 2024, will forever be remembered as a night of college basketball magic in Omaha, Nebraska. The unranked Creighton Bluejays pulled off an electrifying upset, defeating the nation’s top-ranked Kansas Jayhawks 76-63. This monumental win not only shook up the NCAA rankings but also marked a historic achievement for the Creighton program, as it was their second consecutive season beating a No. 1 team at home. Pop Isaacs was the star of the night, scoring 27 points, while Steven Ashworth and Ryan Kalkbrenner each contributed 17 points to the triumphant effort.
Game Highlights
First Half: Creighton Sets the Tone
The Bluejays came out firing on all cylinders, establishing a 41-31 lead by halftime. Creighton’s lethal three-point shooting, combined with their high-energy defense, caught Kansas off guard and set the tone for the game. Pop Isaacs was already heating up with an impressive first half that hinted at the fireworks to come.
Second Half: Creighton Holds Strong
Kansas came out swinging in the second half, cutting the deficit to just one point early on. However, Creighton responded emphatically with a 10-0 run to reassert their dominance. Isaacs continued his shooting excellence, draining six three-pointers in the game and finishing with a season-high 27 points. Every time Kansas threatened, Creighton found an answer, proving their resilience in front of a raucous home crowd.
Context and Background
This victory was not an isolated moment of glory for Creighton this year. It followed their 85-66 dismantling of No. 1 Connecticut at home in February 2024, further solidifying Creighton’s status as a giant-killer. Head coach Greg McDermott, a native of Iowa with deep ties to the Midwest basketball scene, emphasized how significant it was for his team to defeat a powerhouse like Kansas. McDermott, who spent six seasons coaching Iowa State, had famously struggled against the Jayhawks—and this win offered a gratifying sense of redemption.
“There’s a special pride in beating a historic program like Kansas,” McDermott said during the postgame press conference. “These are moments you don’t forget, and our guys earned it tonight.”
Impact and Analysis
Creighton's Strengths Shine
This season has tested Creighton’s grit, as the team has faced injuries and illnesses that have disrupted their rhythm. Yet players like Pop Isaacs and Steven Ashworth rose to the occasion, showcasing their ability to thrive under pressure. The Bluejays demonstrated their depth, executing a near-perfect game plan against the top-ranked Jayhawks.
Kansas Falters
The Jayhawks, who entered the game undefeated, struggled to adapt to Creighton’s relentless pace and defensive schemes. Despite forcing several turnovers, Kansas couldn’t capitalize on the opportunities. They were held to just 37% shooting from the field, a far cry from their usual offensive efficiency. The loss is a wake-up call for Kansas, who will need to regroup quickly before their next matchup.
Conclusion
Creighton’s victory over Kansas is more than just an upset—it’s a statement. It cements the Bluejays as a team that thrives on the biggest of stages, capable of taking down the best teams in the nation. Looking ahead, Creighton will aim to carry this momentum into their next game against UNLV, while Kansas prepares to rebound in a heated rivalry clash with Missouri.
One thing is certain: the 2024 college basketball season continues to enthrall fans, and Creighton’s stunning victory over Kansas will go down as one of the year’s defining moments. As we march toward March Madness, keep an eye on the Bluejays—you never know who they’ll shock next.