Creighton Women's Basketball Falls to Villanova Despite Strong Defensive Showing

Bluejays honor seniors Kiani Lockett, Grace Boffeli, and Kennedy Townsend on Senior Day

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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On a day dedicated to celebrating the legacy of its departing veterans, Creighton Women's Basketball faced a familiar and formidable foe. Despite a resilient defensive effort and standout individual performances, Creighton could not hold off a late surge, falling 74-64 to Villanova at D.J. Sokol Arena.

Why it matters

The loss moves Creighton to 12-14 overall and 8-9 in BIG EAST play, while Villanova improved to 21-5 and 14-3 in conference action. The game highlighted the strong leadership and contributions of Creighton's senior trio, as well as the emergence of a promising freshman star.

The details

Kennedy Townsend delivered a career-defining performance on her Senior Day, leading all scorers with 23 points. Grace Boffeli added another milestone to her decorated career, securing her 45th career double-double with 10 points and 13 rebounds. Freshman Ava Zediker chipped in 15 points, continuing to prove she belongs on the big stage. Villanova's depth ultimately proved decisive, with Jasmine Bascoe, Kennedy Henry, Denae Cater, and Brynn McCurry combining for 65 points.

  • On Sunday, February 15, 2026, the Bluejays hosted Villanova for a high-stakes BIG EAST showdown.
  • The loss moves Creighton to 12-14 overall and 8-9 in BIG EAST play.
  • Villanova improved to 21-5 and 14-3 in conference action.

The players

Creighton Bluejays

The women's basketball team of Creighton University, a private Jesuit university located in Omaha, Nebraska.

Villanova Wildcats

The women's basketball team of Villanova University, a private Catholic university located in Villanova, Pennsylvania.

Kennedy Townsend

A senior on the Creighton Bluejays women's basketball team who led all scorers with 23 points in the game.

Grace Boffeli

A senior on the Creighton Bluejays women's basketball team who secured her 45th career double-double with 10 points and 13 rebounds.

Ava Zediker

A freshman on the Creighton Bluejays women's basketball team who chipped in 15 points, continuing to prove she belongs on the big stage.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The Bluejays will travel to Indianapolis to face Butler on Wednesday, February 18. The tip-off is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. at Hinkle Fieldhouse, with the game streaming live on ESPN+.

The takeaway

This game highlighted the strong leadership and contributions of Creighton's senior trio, as well as the emergence of a promising freshman star. Despite the loss, the Bluejays demonstrated their resilience and competitiveness against a formidable opponent, setting the stage for their upcoming matchup against Butler.