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Creighton Beats Oregon in Double Overtime to Advance to Sweet 16
Greg McDermott and Dana Altman, both esteemed coaches and close friends, shared a moment of disbelief before the start of the second overtime during Creighton’s thrilling victory over Oregon that secured their spot in the Sweet 16 of the NCAA tournament.
Steven Ashworth and Ryan Kalkbrenner played pivotal roles in Creighton’s 86-73 triumph, making key three-point shots in the second overtime to help the Bluejays overcome Altman’s squad. Ashworth’s 21 points, along with Trey Alexander’s 20, Kalkbrenner’s 19, and Baylor Scheierman’s 18, propelled Creighton to victory.
Unprecedented Excitement
The game, described by McDermott as “epic,” featured an intense battle between the two teams led by McDermott and Altman, reflecting a competitive showdown that kept fans on the edge of their seats. The Bluejays, now set to face No. 2 seed Tennessee in the Sweet 16, demonstrated the balance, skill, and composure needed to outlast the formidable duo of Jermaine Couisnard and N’Faly Dante from Oregon.
Couisnard’s standout performance with 32 points and Dante’s dominant presence on the court were met with resilient play and clutch shots from Creighton, ultimately securing their victory in double overtime. The back-and-forth nature of the game, which saw 14 lead changes and nine ties, epitomized the drama and intensity of March basketball.
Turning Point
The second overtime period proved decisive for Creighton, as Ashworth’s opening three-pointer set the tone for a strong finish. Kalkbrenner’s rare three-point shot, along with key plays from the Bluejays’ lineup, secured their triumph and a well-deserved spot in the upcoming Sweet 16 matchup.
With McDermott’s leadership and the team’s collective effort, Creighton continues to solidify its position as a force to be reckoned with in college basketball, challenging the notion of mid-major status and establishing themselves as a formidable contender on the national stage.
The thrilling victory over Oregon exemplified the essence of March Madness, showcasing the resilience, skill, and determination of both teams in a game that will be remembered for its drama and excitement.
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