UNCASVILLE, Conn. — Paige Bueckers dazzled with a 24-point performance, while Azzi Fudd contributed 13 points, leading the No. 3 UConn Huskies to a 70-50 victory over the 22nd-ranked Creighton Bluejays in the Big East championship game on Monday night.
This triumph marks the 23rd Big East title for the Huskies (31-3) and their fifth consecutive championship since they rejoined the conference in 2021. Meanwhile, Creighton reached the championship stage for the first time since 2016, when they fell short against St. John’s.
Sarah Strong added depth to UConn’s winning effort with 13 points, 11 rebounds, and an impressive six steals, as the Huskies sprinted to an 11-point lead right from the start of the game.
On the Creighton side, Lauren Jensen delivered a team-high 13 points. The Bluejays came into the game with a reputation for sharp 3-point shooting, averaging over nine successful attempts per game at a 37% shooting accuracy. However, they managed only 6 of 23 from beyond the arc against UConn, with five of those made during the second half of the game.
### Game Analysis
#### Creighton:
The Bluejays carried an admirable track record into the game, with their defeats limited to formidable opponents such as UConn (three instances), UCLA, South Dakota State, and Kansas State. As they set their sights on the NCAA Tournament, they are expected to pose a challenging test for any adversary, regardless of their eventual seed.
#### UConn:
Following a February 6 loss to Tennessee, the Huskies have proven themselves a formidable force. Winning each contest by at least a 19-point margin, including a substantial 29-point victory at South Carolina, UConn is entering the NCAA Tournament as one of the favored contenders for the national title.
### Critical Moments
The Huskies jumped ahead to an 11-0 start as Creighton struggled with five turnovers and failed to make any field goals on their initial five attempts. From there, Creighton closed the gap slightly with a seven-point run, but UConn countered with a decisive 16-4 burst, wrapping up the first quarter with a 27-11 advantage.
### Statistical Insights
Creighton coach Jim Flanery emphasized the importance of minimizing turnovers before the game. Despite this focus, the Bluejays faced challenges, committing seven of their 19 total miscues in the first quarter, which significantly hindered their ability to bounce back.
### Looking Forward
Both UConn and Creighton now anticipate the announcement of their respective NCAA Tournament seedings, which will be unveiled on Sunday night.
