Kalkbrenner, Ashworth Look to Lead Creighton Past Providence
Creighton’s Ryan Kalkbrenner and Steven Ashworth aim to continue their impressive form as the Bluejays (10-6, 3-2 Big East) host Providence (9-8, 3-3) on Tuesday night in Omaha, Neb. The game will feature standout performances from both teams’ key players, with Kalkbrenner and Ashworth seeking to extend their hot streaks.
Kalkbrenner’s Dominance
Kalkbrenner, the reigning Big East Preseason Player of the Year, has been on a tear recently. He delivered a standout performance on Saturday, contributing 26 points, nine rebounds, and a season-high six blocks in Creighton’s 80-76 victory over Butler. Over his last three games, Kalkbrenner has amassed 58 points, 30 rebounds, and 11 blocked shots. Adding to the excitement, he will be honored before Tuesday’s game for reaching the 2,000-point milestone in his career during Creighton’s January 3 game against Marquette.
Ashworth’s All-Around Impact
Ashworth has also been pivotal, nearly posting a triple-double against Butler with 22 points, a career-high 12 rebounds, and nine assists. Over his last three outings, he has accumulated 53 points, 21 rebounds, and 23 assists. However, Ashworth has struggled from beyond the arc, shooting just 2-for-20 in his past two games. After breaking his streak with a late three-pointer against Butler, Ashworth expressed relief:
“That was a blessing from heaven. I needed one to go down. Shooters keep shooting, and that’s what I did,” he told the Omaha World-Herald.
Providence’s Momentum
Providence, meanwhile, is riding a resurgence led by Bensley Joseph. After losing eight of 10 games, the Friars turned things around with two wins last week. Joseph was instrumental, shooting 15-of-23 from the field during that stretch. He posted career-highs of 28 points and seven three-pointers in a thrilling 91-85 victory over Seton Hall on Saturday.
“Doing anything in any possible way to help my team win,” Joseph said, per the Providence Journal. “Whether it’s coming off the bench, whether it’s starting — just going out there and playing as hard as we can.”
Additionally, Oswin Erhunmwunse recorded his first career double-double against Seton Hall with 12 points, 10 rebounds, and five blocks, adding a defensive edge for the Friars.
What’s at Stake
With both teams featuring players in peak form, Tuesday’s matchup promises to be a competitive showdown in the Big East. Creighton looks to build on its recent success, while Providence hopes to maintain its newfound momentum and climb the conference standings.
