As fierce competitors in the Big East, Creighton and Marquette have a storied history of intense sporting matchups. Dating back to 1923, Marquette currently holds a narrow 73-71 lead in the men’s basketball series. This year, Marquette took the rivalry a step further and challenged Creighton in the Quick Shot Challenge.  

The Quick Shot Challenge, organized by Marquette Dining Services, provided students the opportunity to showcase their arcade basketball skills. Creighton students battled each other out in multiple rounds; The final winner from Creighton then faced off against the top player from Marquette for the ultimate title.  

Incentive to outperform the Golden Eagles was high; The Quick Shot grand prize was a year’s supply of Kellogg’s snacks. 

Through the 5 days of competition, one Bluejay stood out among the rest: Boston Small. A Creighton graduate student and cross-country runner, Small is not unfamiliar with athletic feats. 

Small typically eats with in the dining halls with his teammates around once a week. Between their pressure, and the nostalgia of playing arcade basketball in his basement, Small decided to give it a shot no more than 30 seconds before competing.  

“As I was competing, I thought, ‘I could actually do this.” Small said. At the time the record was 27. Small’s numbers quickly climbed, first surpassing 27, and then some. Small’s record stood, subsequently advancing him to compete against Marquette’s top player the next day on Instagram live.  

Small defended his title and came out victorious with a final score of 43-35. “It was very fun to participate. I am glad our dining halls put on fun giveaways like this” said Small. 

While Small gets a plethora of snacks, Marquette gets to put on a Creighton themed meal in their dining hall as punishment for losing. Content can be found on the Instagram page @marquette_dining.