Pittsburgh, PA – March 24, 2024 – The hardwood of PPG arena bore witness to an electrifying clash as the Creighton Bluejays clashed feathers with the Oregon Ducks in an unforgettable Second Round showdown of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament.
In a matchup between two close friends and the winningest coaches in Creighton history, Greg McDermott and Dana Altman, the intensity was palpable from the tip-off. For over two hours, these coaching titans led their teams into battle, resulting in a breathtaking contest that will be etched into the annals of basketball history.
The game was a rollercoaster of momentum shifts, with the lead changing hands an astonishing 14 times throughout the night. Creighton, renowned for their fast-paced style of play, asserted dominance on the boards in the first half, setting the stage for a thrilling duel that would captivate fans until the final buzzer.
As regulation time expired with the scoreboard deadlocked at 62-62, the tension only intensified as the game headed into overtime. In a dramatic first overtime period, Oregon’s Jermaine Couisnard drained a clutch three-pointer with just 16 seconds remaining, forcing the contest into double overtime.
As the clock struck midnight local time, signaling the onset of the second overtime period, the Creighton faithful erupted with fervor as guard Steven Ashworth buried a pivotal three-pointer, igniting a scoring spree that saw the Bluejays surge ahead. With momentum firmly on their side, Creighton’s towering 7’1″ center showcased his versatility by sinking a jaw-dropping three-pointer of his own, propelling the Bluejays to a commanding lead and ultimately clinching their ticket to the Sweet 16 in epic fashion.
Creighton pulls off the win 86-73. Led by four starters in double digits, including standout performances from Ashworth and their towering center, Ryan Kalkbrenner, Creighton’s triumph underscored the team’s unwavering resolve and championship pedigree.
The matchup between Coach McDermott and Coach Altman, two esteemed mentors and good friends, will be immortalized as a timeless chapter in the storied history of collegiate basketball. From the thrilling exchanges on the court to the enduring camaraderie between coaching rivals, this game will be remembered as a testament to the enduring spirit of competition and sportsmanship.
