Georgetown Hoyas vs Creighton Bluejays Picks and Predictions December 18th 2024

Surging Hoyas face first Big East test vs. Creighton

The Georgetown Hoyas (8-2) have been one of the most improved teams in college basketball this season. Under the leadership of second-year head coach Ed Cooley, the Hoyas are enjoying their best start since the 2017-18 season. This resurgence has been fueled by standout performances from Thomas Sorber and Jayden Epps, both averaging 15.5 points per game.

Their recent 79-73 road victory against Syracuse was a milestone moment. Coach Cooley called it the team’s best performance “by far” during his tenure, highlighting significant strides on both offense and defense. Jayden Epps was exceptional, scoring 27 points on an efficient 11-of-15 shooting, including four 3-pointers. However, Cooley was particularly impressed with Epps’ defensive development, which he described as transformative.

Despite their strong start, the Hoyas face a major hurdle in their Big East conference opener against the Creighton Blue Jays (7-4), a team they have not beaten in their last six meetings. Each of those losses came by double-digit margins. Wednesday night’s clash in Washington, D.C., provides Georgetown with an opportunity to rewrite the narrative and solidify their return to relevance.

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Creighton Battles Injuries Amid Early-Season Struggles
For Creighton, the 2023-24 season has been a rollercoaster. The Blue Jays began the season with four consecutive victories, climbing to No. 14 in the rankings. However, a subsequent three-game losing streak—including a narrow 83-75 defeat to then-No. 7 Alabama—has tempered expectations.

Adding to their woes, Creighton has been plagued by injuries. The loss of Texas Tech transfer Pop Isaacs to a season-ending hip injury was a significant blow. Isaacs’ breakout performance in his final game saw him drop 27 points and lead the Blue Jays to a stunning upset over then-No. 1 Kansas in the Big 12-Big East Battle.

Ryan Kalkbrenner, Creighton’s top scorer (17.4 PPG), rebounder (8.3 RPG), and shot-blocker (2.5 BPG), has been playing through a lower-body injury. Meanwhile, Steven Ashworth, the team’s second-leading scorer (16.3 PPG) and primary playmaker (6.2 APG), has been slowed by an ankle issue.

Despite these setbacks, head coach Greg McDermott remains optimistic but realistic, acknowledging that his team’s “margin for error is really slim.” Creighton’s ability to navigate these challenges will be pivotal as they aim to maintain their status as a Big East contender.

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Key Matchups to Watch

• Jayden Epps (Georgetown) vs. Creighton’s Defense: Epps has emerged as a dual threat, combining elite scoring with improved defensive prowess. His ability to penetrate Creighton’s injury-depleted defense could tilt the game in Georgetown’s favor.
• Ryan Kalkbrenner (Creighton) vs. Thomas Sorber (Georgetown): As dominant big men on both teams, their battle in the paint will be critical. Kalkbrenner’s shot-blocking and rebounding must neutralize Sorber’s inside scoring.

Historical Context and Stakes
The Hoyas have struggled mightily against the Blue Jays, losing their last six meetings by significant margins. However, with their best record in over five years and momentum on their side, Georgetown has an opportunity to turn the tide. A victory would validate their resurgence and establish them as a legitimate threat in the Big East.

For Creighton, this matchup is about resilience. Despite their injury setbacks, the Blue Jays have proven their mettle with a win over Kansas. A victory in their conference opener would signal that they remain a force to be reckoned with, even under adverse circumstances.

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Outlook and Prediction
This clash between Georgetown’s rising stars and Creighton’s seasoned but battered squad promises to be a thrilling encounter. The Hoyas’ confidence, coupled with home-court advantage, gives them a slight edge. However, Creighton’s experience and tactical discipline cannot be underestimated.

Expect a closely contested game where Georgetown’s depth and defensive improvement could make the difference.

Final Prediction: Georgetown 76, Creighton 72