In a pivotal encounter set to shape the early 2024 college basketball season, the Creighton Bluejays will face off against the St. John’s Red Storm in New York City on December 28. This game marks the fourth time this season that Creighton has returned to the national spotlight and serves as a significant test for both teams as they close out the calendar year. The match is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. Central Time and will be broadcast on FOX.

The Battle of Queens: A Deep Dive into the Creighton-St. John’s Rivalry

The rivalry between Creighton and St. John’s dates back to their first meeting in 1997, with Creighton holding a narrow edge at 14-13. The Bluejays have dominated regular-season matchups, particularly in Queens, where they have won seven out of eleven games. However, St. John’s has proven formidable in postseason play, boasting a 5-1 record against Creighton. Notably, Creighton has secured victories in the last three encounters, setting the stage for an intense showdown.

Key moments in this series include a thrilling 72-66 win by Creighton in 1997, followed by several nail-biting finishes, such as a 65-62 victory in 2014 and a dominant 107-59 win in February 2022. These games highlight the competitive nature of the rivalry and the unpredictability of each matchup.

In preparation for this game, both teams bring different strengths to the table. St. John’s, under the leadership of head coach Joe Tartamella, excels defensively, limiting opponents to just 51.8 points per game and forcing 18.4 turnovers. Offensively, Lashae Dwyer leads the charge with 15.3 points per game, supported by Skye Owen and Ber’Nyah Mayo.

On the other side, Creighton enters this contest after a challenging loss to UCLA but remains resilient. Led by Lauren Jensen and Morgan Maly, who average 17.8 and 17.5 points respectively, the Bluejays have shown remarkable consistency in rebounding and defensive performance. Senior Morgan Maly’s recent streak of 22 consecutive successful free throws adds another layer of confidence to the team.

As the Bluejays prepare for this crucial game, they will need to leverage their strengths in defense and rebounding while capitalizing on key scoring opportunities. Junior Kiani Lockett and Kennedy Townsend, who shone in the UCLA game, will also be instrumental in providing depth and support.

A Look Ahead: What This Game Means for Both Teams

This matchup offers more than just bragging rights; it represents a critical juncture in the early part of the 2024 season. For Creighton, a win would solidify their standing as a top contender in the BIG EAST conference and provide valuable momentum heading into the new year. For St. John’s, this game presents an opportunity to regain the upper hand in the rivalry and boost their confidence after a strong start to the season.

From a broader perspective, this game underscores the importance of resilience and adaptability in college sports. Both teams have faced challenges and triumphs leading up to this moment, and their ability to perform under pressure will be crucial. As fans and observers, we can look forward to a thrilling display of skill, strategy, and determination that exemplifies the spirit of collegiate athletics.