Creighton University Basketball: A Powerhouse in the Heart of Nebraska
Introduction
When you think of basketball in Nebraska, one name consistently rises to the top: Creighton University. Located in Omaha, Creighton’s basketball program has evolved from a respected mid-major into a legitimate national contender. With state-of-the-art facilities, elite coaching, and passionate fan support, the Creighton Bluejays have become a force in the Big East Conference and a regular in March Madness.
A Rich Basketball Tradition
Early Successes and Growth
Creighton’s basketball program dates back to 1913, with early success in regional play. The team truly began gaining national recognition in the 1970s and 1980s, thanks to consistent postseason appearances and standout athletes.
The Dana Altman Era
From 1994 to 2010, Dana Altman turned Creighton into a dominant force in the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC), making seven NCAA Tournament appearances. His leadership laid the foundation for future success and elevated the program’s national profile.
The McDermott Era and Big East Ascendancy
In 2010, Greg McDermott took over as head coach, bringing consistency, elite recruiting, and a modern, high-scoring offense. Under his leadership, Creighton transitioned to the Big East Conference in 2013, raising the level of competition and national exposure.
Doug McDermott: The Face of the Bluejays
Coach McDermott’s son, Doug McDermott, became one of the most decorated players in college basketball history:
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3x All-American
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2014 Naismith National Player of the Year
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2,000+ career points
Doug’s impact on Creighton basketball was monumental, and he remains a symbol of the program’s rise.
NCAA Tournament Success
Creighton has become a regular participant in the NCAA Tournament, making multiple Sweet 16 appearances in recent years:
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Sweet 16 (2014, 2021, 2023)
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Elite Eight (2023) — narrowly losing in a thriller to San Diego State
The Bluejays’ combination of perimeter shooting, strong defense, and smart coaching has made them a tough out in March.
Notable Players in the Modern Era
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Doug McDermott – National Player of the Year, NBA veteran
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Ty-Shon Alexander – Elite defender and NBA contributor
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Marcus Zegarowski – Floor general and Big East standout
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Ryan Kalkbrenner – Defensive anchor and Big East Defensive Player of the Year
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Trey Alexander & Baylor Scheierman – Modern-day stars with All-Big East honors
CHI Health Center Omaha: Home of the Bluejays
Creighton plays home games at the CHI Health Center Omaha, a modern arena with a capacity of over 18,000. The Bluejays consistently rank in the top 10 for average home attendance among NCAA teams—a testament to their loyal fan base and Omaha’s love for college basketball.
Community & Culture
Creighton’s basketball culture is more than just wins—it’s about building student-athletes, representing Omaha with pride, and developing leaders on and off the court. The program is known for:
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High graduation rates
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Community engagement
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Player development and NBA readiness
External Links
Conclusion
Creighton University basketball has become a true symbol of Nebraska’s sports excellence. With a proven coaching staff, elite talent, and unmatched community support, the Bluejays are not just Big East contenders—they’re a team with national championship potential. As the program continues to grow, Creighton remains a proud representation of Omaha, college athletics, and what it means to build a sustainable basketball powerhouse.
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