“Jim Flanery has built a monster”: College hoops analyst makes his feelings clear about Creighton with 'Lauren Jensen, Morgan Maly and Co. back'

College hoops analyst John Fanta named Lauren Jensen, Morgan Maly and the rest of the Creighton Bluejays as one of UConn's main challengers in the 2024-25 Big East Conference basketball season. Jim Flanery's team is loaded with experience, with Jensen and Maly back in action for their senior years.

Creighton Bluejays guard Lauren Jensen (#15) drives the ball against Seton Hall Pirates guard Amari Wright (#22) in the first half of their NCAA basketball game at Mohegan Sun Arena. Photo: Imagn

Fanta shared his insights about the Big East in a chat with sports reporter Nicole Beckelman, which was posted on the Instagram page Flohoops on Tuesday. He mentioned the Huskies as the tournament favorite, with Paige Bueckers, Sarah Strong, Azzi Fudd, Ashlynn Shade and KK Arnold in Geno Auriemma's lineup.

The Bluejays can give them a run for their money, though. They have won seven of their first nine games, including their last six outings. Creighton is coming off a 75-71 win over Northern Iowa on Saturday, with Jensen and Maly combining for 31 points, 10 rebounds and 11 assists.

Fanta explained why the Bluejays are a legitimate threat in the Big East.

"Creighton has Lauren Jensen, Morgan Maly and company back. They’re in a place where they’re going to be such a dangerous team. Jim Flanery has built a monster in Omaha," Fanta said.

Lauren Jensen and Morgan Maly off to solid starts in 2024-25 NCAA season, Fanta discusses potential 'surprise players'

Lauren Jensen has been a vital cog for the Bluejays this season, averaging 20.4 points, 4.9 rebounds, 4.3 assists and 1.7 steals through nine games. She has led the team in scoring in five of those games.

Maly is Creighton's second-leading scorer, averaging 16.6 points per contest. She has also contributed in other departments, averaging 4.2 rebounds, 2.1 assists and a team-high 0.9 blocks.

Morgan Maly (#30) and Lauren Jensen (#15) of the Creighton Bluejays celebrate while playing against the UNLV Lady Rebels during the first round of the 2024 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament. Photo: Getty

Fanta also discussed the Big East players who could surprise people this season.

"Ber’Nyah Mayo at St. John’s has a chance to be a really special player. Caroline Strande at Butler was one of the most effective shooters in this league a year ago." Fanta said.

He rounded off his list after Kelsey Ransom (Georgetown) and Jade Eads (Seton Hall).