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How does a 24-year-old father of one manage to shine in the competitive arena of NCAA basketball? The answer lies in the remarkable journey of Steven Ashworth, a senior point guard for the Creighton Bluejays. Ashworth has not only become one of the most experienced players in college basketball but also a beacon of inspiration for players and fans alike.
Born on May 1, 1998, Steven Ashworth turned 24 this year. He is in his fifth season of NCAA basketball, a lengthened career that was made possible by a unique waiver due to the pandemic-impacted 2020-21 season, which allowed him an extra year of eligibility. However, Ashworth’s path to college basketball was unconventional. Before stepping onto the court, he served as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which delayed the start of his college career. Entering college basketball at the age of 20, he began at Utah State University, where he played for three seasons before transferring to Creighton before the 2023 season.
During his time at Creighton, Ashworth has been a force to be reckoned with on the court. His performance has been impressive: this season, he is averaging 16.3 points, 6.8 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game. Moreover, his shooting accuracy has been noteworthy, hitting 38.9% from the field and an incredible 92.6% from the free-throw line—ranking him fifth among all Division I players.
In a tournament setting, Ashworth made headlines during the NCAA March Madness with a stand-out performance, scoring 20 points against Louisville in a decisive 89-75 victory. What made this moment even more memorable was the pride swelling in his heart as his 9-month-old son, Tommy Jay, cheered him on from the stands, wearing his blue Creighton noise-canceling headphones. It was a heartwarming sight that captured the attention of fans and media alike, sparking curiosity about the family man behind the athlete.
As Ashworth navigates the challenges of being a married player and a father, his leadership on the Creighton team has been palpable. Coach Greg McDermott praised Ashworth and another married player, Ryan Kalkbrenner, for their ability to bring the team together and create a family-like atmosphere, enhancing team cohesion and morale. Ashworth’s ability to balance family life while excelling in basketball showcases his impressive time management skills and dedication.
The adjustments Ashworth faced after his mission are not unique; many players returning from similar experiences encounter challenges in regaining their form and skills. For Ashworth, it took until midway through his sophomore season to feel fully back on track. He has reflected on this experience, noting that it requires not only physical adjustments but also mental resilience, emphasizing the importance of putting faith first to achieve success.
Looking ahead, Ashworth’s journey is far from over. His ambition to lead Creighton to further victories in the NCAA tournament remains strong. As they prepare to face formidable opponents, including a match against the number one seed Auburn, all eyes will be on Ashworth—not only as a player but as a father who continues to inspire fans on and off the court.
For aspiring young athletes and their families, Steven Ashworth exemplifies that with hard work, dedication, and a supportive family, one can achieve greatness in sports while nurturing a loving home.
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