A rising star’s light often burns brightest before it fades. This sentiment encapsulates the recent trajectory of Creighton guard Pop Isaacs. In a pivotal showdown against the Kansas Jayhawks—a game that saw Creighton topple Bill Self’s No. 1-ranked squad—Isaacs emerged as the spark behind the Bluejays’ electrifying performance. With fans rallying behind his breakout season, the sophomore guard seemed destined for collegiate stardom. But, as a recent report suggests, Isaacs’ journey may be facing an abrupt pause.

According to a post on X by ESPN college insider Jeff Borzello, “Creighton guard Pop Isaacs is expected to undergo hip surgery and miss the rest of the season, sources confirmed to ESPN. Isaacs had hip surgery last spring, but it’s still an issue. Was averaging 16.3 points through eight games after transferring from Texas Tech.”

Isaacs’ absence will undoubtedly leave a void in Creighton’s roster, as he was integral to their early-season success. The numbers tell the story: averaging 16.3 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game, Isaacs had established himself as a cornerstone of Creighton’s offense.

He boasted a season-high 27 points against Kansas, a performance punctuated by six three-pointers that cemented his role as the team’s one of the most dangerous weapons in clutch moments.

His ability to stretch defenses with his 41% field goal shooting made him a constant threat, hence making him a defense magnet. In fact, in the game against Kansas, Isaacs shot 10-15 from the field and nailed 6-9 from beyond the arc, making clutch three-pointers that helped Creighton maintain their lead as Kansas mounted a comeback.

But what will happen to the Bluejays now?

What’s Next for Creighton?

For Isaacs, the season was shaping up to be a redemption story. After transferring from Texas Tech and undergoing hip surgery last spring, he quickly found his rhythm in Creighton’s system. As a starter alongside stars like Ryan Kalkbrenner and Steven Ashworth, Isaacs balanced scoring and playmaking duties with remarkable maturity.

Isaacs’ absence puts additional pressure on Creighton’s bench, with players like Jasen Green and Isaac Traudt expected to step up. While veterans such as Kalkbrenner and Ashworth will carry more offensive responsibility, replacing Isaacs’ unique blend of scoring and composure won’t be easy.

Statistically, Creighton thrives on perimeter shooting, averaging 32% from three-point range which Isaacs contributed to significantly. Now, head coach Greg McDermott will possibly look towards his bigs in Mason Miller and Jackson McAndrew. Senior guard Jamiya Neal, who is currently averaging 9.6 points and 6 rebounds in 29.9 minutes per game will also see more minutes on the floor.

As the Bluejays navigate the season without Isaacs, the focus now shifts to his recovery and the hope of his swift but quick return. In the meantime, his absence leaves a gaping hole in Creighton’s pursuit of postseason glory—a reminder of how quickly a season can shift.