COLLEGE BASKETBALL
Creighton opened with a 76.0-point showing and limited its opponent to 61.0 points, a strong first-data-point blend for a team expected to control the game. The Bluejays’ rebounding and shooting numbers also support a stable scoring base, and their KenPom offense ranks far better than Le Moyne’s defensive profile. Le Moyne’s first game was much rougher, with 64.0 points scored and 106.0 allowed. Its KenPom offense is 97.7 and defense is 110.5, both of which are far below Creighton’s level. The Dolphins can hit some threes at 34.5%, but the overall efficiency gap and the defensive slip are what make this a difficult spot against a high-major opponent on the road.
Creighton should control this game from the opening stretch and create enough clean looks to outpace its posted team scoring expectation. Le Moyne’s poor defensive start, combined with Creighton’s stronger efficiency metrics and better shooting profile, points to a comfortable home win and a strong scoring night for the Bluejays. Final projection: Creighton Bluejays 93, Le Moyne Dolphins 61.
