Creighton University, based in Omaha, Nebraska, has steadily risen to national prominence in college basketball. While the Bluejays may not have the historical pedigree of some powerhouses, their consistent success over the years has made them a respected force in the NCAA. From their humble beginnings to their emergence as a Big East contender, Creighton basketball has become synonymous with winning, innovation, and a culture of excellence.
The Early Years of Creighton Basketball
Creighton basketball dates back to the early 1900s, but it wasn’t until the 1980s and 1990s that the program started to gain national recognition. Initially a small regional program, Creighton’s basketball success was more localized, and its impact in the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) grew slowly. The Bluejays’ real breakthrough came when Dana Altman took over the program in 1994.
The Dana Altman Era: Turning the Program Around
Altman’s leadership in the 1990s marked a turning point for Creighton. His first big success came in 1999 when he led the team to its first NCAA Tournament appearance in 30 years. Altman’s ability to recruit talented players like Kyle Korver, who went on to a successful NBA career, propelled Creighton into the national spotlight. Under Altman, the Bluejays made multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and became a consistent MVC contender.
Altman’s system emphasized high-pressure defense, efficient offense, and team chemistry. By the time he left for Oregon in 2010, Creighton had firmly established itself as a nationally respected program.
The Greg McDermott Era: Elevating to New Heights
In 2010, Greg McDermott took over the program and continued the momentum built by Altman. McDermott inherited a program ready for success, and under his leadership, Creighton became a dominant force in the MVC. The real game-changer came in 2013 when the Bluejays made the jump to the Big East Conference, significantly raising their profile.
McDermott’s emphasis on a balanced offense, with an emphasis on shooting and ball movement, helped Creighton remain competitive in the tougher Big East. Under his leadership, the Bluejays earned numerous NCAA Tournament bids, including a No. 3 seed in 2014. McDermott also developed standout players like Doug McDermott, the 2014 National Player of the Year, who put the Bluejays on the map as a major national contender.
Creighton Basketball in the Big East
Since joining the Big East, Creighton has thrived, regularly competing against top-tier programs like Villanova, Xavier, and Marquette. The move allowed the Bluejays to increase their visibility, and they quickly proved they could compete at the highest level.
Players like Doug McDermott, Jahenns Manigat, and Marcus Zegarowski helped elevate Creighton’s status as a perennial NCAA tournament team. The Bluejays’ ability to recruit high-level talent and compete in one of the toughest conferences in the country has kept them in the conversation as a national contender year after year.
Recent Success and the Future of Creighton Basketball
In recent seasons, Creighton has continued to build on its success in the Big East, earning NCAA Tournament berths and making deep runs. With talented players like Ryan Kalkbrenner and Baylor Scheierman, the Bluejays are poised for continued success. Creighton’s blend of skilled coaching, solid recruiting, and efficient team play makes them a team to watch each season.
Under McDermott’s leadership, Creighton has established a winning culture, and the program’s future looks bright. The combination of high-level coaching and the ability to develop both players and character sets Creighton apart from many other programs.
Conclusion
Creighton basketball has evolved from a small regional program to a respected force in NCAA basketball. From Dana Altman’s foundational work to Greg McDermott’s rise in the Big East, the Bluejays have built a legacy of excellence. With continued success, talented players, and a culture of winning, Creighton is well-positioned for sustained success on the national stage. As the program continues to grow, it is clear that Creighton basketball will remain a competitive and exciting force in the NCAA for years to come.
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