What's Happening?
DePaul University's men's basketball team achieved a significant victory over Creighton University, marking their first win against the Bluejays since 2015. The game, held at Wintrust Arena, concluded
with a dramatic 72-71 scoreline, thanks to a decisive layup by Brandon Maclin in the final seven seconds. NJ Benson was a standout performer for DePaul, scoring 23 points on an impressive 10-of-11 shooting and securing 10 rebounds. Maclin contributed 17 points, shooting 6 of 10 from the field and 5 of 6 from the free-throw line, along with five assists. Layden Blocker added 11 points, including two three-pointers. The victory improved DePaul's record to 13-12 overall and 5-9 in the Big East Conference, surpassing their conference win total from the previous season. Creighton, with a matching overall record of 13-12, was led by Austin Swartz with 15 points, while Josh Dix and Jasen Green each added 13 points.
Why It's Important?
This victory is a morale booster for DePaul, breaking a long-standing losing streak against Creighton and highlighting the team's progress under current coaching. The win not only enhances DePaul's standing in the Big East Conference but also boosts the team's confidence as they continue their season. For Creighton, the loss is a setback in their conference performance, potentially affecting their seeding and momentum as they approach the latter part of the season. The game also showcased individual talents like NJ Benson, whose performance could attract attention from scouts and analysts, potentially impacting his future career prospects.
What's Next?
DePaul will look to build on this victory as they continue their Big East Conference schedule, aiming to improve their standings and secure a favorable position for any postseason opportunities. The team will need to maintain their momentum and address any weaknesses exposed during the game to ensure continued success. Creighton, on the other hand, will need to regroup and strategize to recover from this loss, focusing on strengthening their defense and execution in close games. Both teams will be closely watched by fans and analysts as they navigate the remainder of the season.
