creighton basketball faces uphill test at UConn on Wednesday, Feb. 18
Creighton basketball visits Gampel Pavilion in Storrs, Conn. on Wednesday, Feb. 18 for a matchup with No. 5 UConn. Tip is scheduled for 7 p. m. ET. The rematch comes after a lopsided early-season meeting, and Creighton enters with an uphill climb to reverse course and secure a stronger standing in conference play.
Rematch context and what to watch
The teams met earlier this season in a game that was dominated by UConn, a performance that featured balanced scoring from multiple contributors and an 85-58 final score. Four players combined for 57 points in that outing, highlighting UConn's ability to distribute scoring and overwhelm opponents on both ends. That balance will be the blueprint Creighton must disrupt if it hopes to leave Storrs with a result.
Key game elements to monitor: Creighton's perimeter defense and ability to limit second-chance points, its success moving the ball to generate open looks, and who steps up as a consistent scorer against a defense that has shown it can clamp down and force uncomfortable possessions. Turnovers will be crucial — UConn has capitalized on miscues in the past — and rebounding margin will likely determine second-chance opportunities that could swing momentum.
Where Creighton stands and what improvements are needed
Creighton enters the game with a 13-13 overall record and a 7-8 mark in conference play. Those numbers underline a season of uneven stretches: flashes of high-level execution paired with extended slumps that have cost the Bluejays in close league contests. To be competitive in Storrs, Creighton needs a steadier offensive identity and more reliable perimeter production. Creating consistent scoring beyond one or two go-to options will force UConn to account for more threats and open up driving lanes and interior looks.
Defensively, the Bluejays must shore up on-ball pressure and box out on the glass. In the earlier meeting, defensive breakdowns allowed UConn to rack up efficient shots and easy points in transition. Eliminating defensive lapses in the halfcourt and committing to team rebounding will be essential. If Creighton can cut down on fouls and avoid giving the opponent free trips to the line, it can keep the game within reach late.
Implications for conference positioning and the postseason
For UConn, the game is another opportunity to solidify its positioning near the top of the league and reinforce an NCAA tournament resume that already looks strong. For Creighton, a win would be a quality résumé booster and a chance to swing momentum toward a late-season push. Conversely, a loss could deepen questions about consistency and place added pressure on the Bluejays to regroup for the stretch run.
Beyond immediate standings, the matchup offers both teams a gauge of depth and adaptability. Conference tournaments reward teams that can adjust game plans on short notice and get contributions from the bench; Wednesday's result will shed light on which team has better answers when rotations are tested and primary scorers are contained.
Matchup edges will likely be decided in the final 10 minutes, where execution, experience and shot selection typically determine outcomes. Creighton basketball arrives with clear fixes to pursue: tighten defensively, balance scoring, and control the glass. If those boxes are checked, the Bluejays can make this a competitive night in a building where few visitors leave untested.
