Xavier got off to a slow start against Creighton, only making two shots in the first five minutes and turning the ball over three times. However, the defense was good enough to prevent Creighton from pulling away early, only allowing nine points during that span. Xavier trailed 9-4 with 15:17 left in the first half.
The Musketeers got back within three points, 11-8, on a Ryan Welage three, but Creighton would score the next four points to take a 15-8 with 12:37 left in the first half.
Xavier was able to get their offense going after that, scoring 13 points in five minutes.