December 1, 2018:  #1 Gonzaga @ Creighton   Zags 103-92 over Jays.

As is said there are no moral victories and a loss is a loss. I am however, very encouraged by our men’s basketball team.

Our Jays are not playing nearly as well as they can or will, with 2 of 3 bigs recovering from injuries. Mitch Ballock- expected to be one of our primary scorers – has only performed as expected on 1 or 2 occasions thus far. Our PG by cmte is not yet performing optimally.

In spite of the above we hung toe to toe with the far more experienced #1 team and not withstanding the 4 minutes lapse mid 2nd half, AND the overwhelmingly lopsided disparity in foul calls, were in the game and had an opportunity to win it. While there is no shame in losing to the top team in the nation, we did hang 92 points on the #1 team, nothing beats winning.

This 2018-19 Creighton basketball squad is good. With continued development & incremental improvements this team will be one of the twenty best teams in the country.  The team is 6-2, won the in season tourney over #16 Clemson, and is on schedule to meet/exceed my expectations.

Our guys are playing well, defining team roles, and will continue to improve. They can and will contend for the Big East crown.

Recruiting:  A few recruits were expected at the Gonzaga game.  Jacob Padilla made mention that 2021 recruit SG/SF Hunter Sallis attended.

Attempting to schedule a visit for 2019 Fwd Tristan Enaruna.  Possibly over the Xmas season.  He’s gaining more notice as KU has now offered.

Soccer:  The regular season champs Men’s season ended abruptly at the BET.  No NCAA bid given.  Coach Bolovich retired and Asst. Coach Johnny Torres was promoted to HC.  Good move for continuity.

Volleyball:  the 28-4 Jays won both the Regular Season & BET championships.  #9 CU (9-seed), again hosted 1st & 2nd round games.  The team won vs South Dakota, but bowed out in the 2nd round vs #22 Univ. Washington.  Excellent season, but too short a stay in the tournament.

Previews, stories, and vids at goCreighton, white and blue review, Bluejay Banter, and the Omaha World Herald.

* unlabeled photos courtesy of Creighton Athletics.