In a highly anticipated matchup, Creighton Women’s Basketball is set to face Northern Iowa on Saturday, December 7, in Cedar Falls, Iowa, at 2:00 p.m. CST, airing on ESPN+. The Bluejays, currently holding a 6-2 record, look to extend their strong performance against the Panthers, with Creighton leading the all-time series 42-20. The Bluejays have had a dominant record at home, securing 25 wins compared to only 15 losses away against Northern Iowa.
The Panthers, led by head coach Tanya Warren, boast a solid 4-3 record as they enter this game. Warren, a former Bluejay herself, played for Creighton from 1983 to 1988 and has been recognized significantly for her contributions to the program, including her induction into the CU Athletics Hall of Fame. Northern Iowa recently finished last season with a record of 16-16, concluding with a narrow loss to Saint Louis in the first round of the WNIT. This season, they have achieved notable victories, including an impressive win over #8 Iowa State.
Offensively, Northern Iowa is powered by Maya McDermott and Kayba Laube, who together average over 40 points per game. The Panthers lead their matches with an average of 79.1 points scored but are allowing 68.3 on defense.
Meanwhile, Creighton enters the game riding a five-game winning streak, demonstrating impressive offensive efficiency by consistently scoring over 80 points in their victories. The Bluejays have also showcased their defensive prowess, limiting opponents to less than 60 points in their last three games. This marks an impressive trend, as Creighton has not lost a game when tallying 20 or more assists, with their most recent outing ending in a decisive 82-54 win against Xavier.
As the game approaches, both teams will be eager to prove their strength, bringing a captivating display of talent and competition to the court. For fans, this encounter not only highlights the clash between the two teams but also serves as a homage to Warren’s legacy while showcasing the growing rivalry between these programs.
In conclusion, with both teams gearing up for this clash, fans can look forward to an exciting game where strategy, skill, and teamwork will be on full display. The matchup also reflects a hopeful spirit in women’s sports, celebrating the accomplishments of female athletes and coaches and the growing attention and support for women’s basketball.