Ryan Kalkbrenner: Creighton C Dominates Season with Record-Breaking Defensive Stats
Ryan Kalkbrenner has become one of college basketball’s most dominant big men during his time at Creighton. The 7’1″, 270-pound center from Florissant, Missouri has been a defensive force in the paint, earning the prestigious Big East Defensive Player of the Year award three times (2022, 2023, 2024). His elite rim protection combined with efficient offensive production has positioned him as an intriguing prospect for the 2025 NBA Draft, where teams will value his 7-foot frame and ability to control the paint at both ends.
Born January 17, 2002, Kalkbrenner has developed into the cornerstone of Creighton’s program. His presence has transformed the Bluejays’ defense while his offensive game has expanded beyond just dunks and put-backs. NBA scouts have taken notice of his improvement, with many viewing him as a throwback center who excels at swatting shots with his impressive wingspan and finishing efficiently around the rim.
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Ryan Kalkbrenner: A Rising Star at Creighton
Ryan Kalkbrenner has evolved into one of college basketball’s most dominant big men during his time at Creighton. The 7-footer has earned an impressive distinction as one of only three players ever to be named a three-time BIG EAST Defensive Player of the Year (2022, 2023, 2024).
His defensive prowess is matched by his efficient offensive game. Kalkbrenner operates as a throwback center who controls the paint on both ends of the floor, using his exceptional wingspan to block shots and finish strong at the rim.
NBA scouts have taken notice of his development. Kalkbrenner is projected as a potential selection in the 2025 NBA Draft, with teams valuing his elite rim protection and high-percentage scoring ability.
Kalkbrenner’s Statistical Profile:
| Category | 2023-24 Season |
|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 17.3 |
| Rebounds Per Game | 7.5 |
| Blocks Per Game | 2.9 |
| Field Goal % | 68.2 |
What makes Kalkbrenner particularly intriguing to NBA teams is his combination of size and skill. He’s described as a throwback 7-footer who owns the paint, swatting shots with his giant wingspan and dunking everything in sight.
Despite being 23 years old – considered older for draft prospects – Kalkbrenner’s defensive impact and efficient offensive game translate well to the next level. He’s been a cornerstone of Creighton’s success, helping the Bluejays remain competitive in the challenging Big East conference.
Creighton’s Impactful Center
Ryan Kalkbrenner has established himself as one of college basketball’s most dominant big men. His combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ has made him a cornerstone of Creighton’s success and a formidable presence in the Big East.
Offensive Contribution
Standing at 7-foot-1, Kalkbrenner has developed into more than just a defensive specialist for the Bluejays. His offensive efficiency is remarkable, leading the Big East in field goal percentage. When Kalkbrenner gets the ball near the rim, it’s almost automatic.
His scoring arsenal has expanded beyond just dunks and putbacks. He’s added a reliable hook shot and improved footwork in the post. Most impressive is his ability to finish through contact while maintaining high-percentage looks.
Kalkbrenner’s offensive numbers reflect his growth:
| Season | PPG | FG% | FT% | Offensive Rebounds/Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023-24 | 17.3 | 69.5% | 72.8% | 2.1 |
| 2024-25 | 18.4 | 71.2% | 75.6% | 2.4 |
NBA scouts have taken notice of his improved free throw shooting and developing mid-range game. Currently projected as an early-to-mid second round pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, his offensive growth has raised his stock considerably.
Defensive Prowess
Kalkbrenner’s defensive impact cannot be overstated. He’s a three-time Big East Defensive Player of the Year, joining rare company as only the third player in conference history to earn this distinction three times.
His shot-blocking ability is elite, averaging 2.7 blocks per game. What doesn’t show up in the stat sheet is how many shots he alters and deters. Opponents simply avoid the paint when Kalkbrenner patrols it.
Beyond blocks, his defensive positioning and awareness have improved dramatically. He’s no longer just a rim protector but a complete defender who can hedge on screens and recover quickly.
Kalkbrenner’s rebounding has also taken a significant leap, pulling down 9.0 boards per game to lead the conference. His ability to end defensive possessions with rebounds has been crucial to Creighton’s success this season.
NBA scouts view him as a potential defensive specialist at the next level, with his 7-foot+ wingspan and timing making him an intriguing prospect despite concerns about his lateral quickness against NBA athletes.
Kalkbrenner’s Statistics and Records
Ryan Kalkbrenner has established himself as one of the most dominant big men in college basketball, combining elite defensive presence with remarkable offensive efficiency. His statistical profile showcases a player who impacts games in multiple ways.
Dominance in Blocks
The 7-footer has become Creighton’s defensive anchor, consistently ranking among the nation’s elite shot blockers. During his career, Kalkbrenner has demonstrated remarkable timing and positioning that make him a formidable rim protector.
In games against top competition, his presence alters offensive game plans and forces teams to adjust their attack. His four blocked shots against Xavier in February 2025 exemplified his ability to control the paint.
NBA scouts have taken notice of his defensive instincts, with many projecting him as a mid-first round selection primarily due to his elite rim protection. His combination of length and basketball IQ translates perfectly to the next level’s defensive schemes.
Scoring Efficiency
Kalkbrenner’s offensive efficiency stands among the best in college basketball history. His shooting percentages consistently rank near the top nationally, making him one of the most reliable scoring options in the paint.
His most impressive performance came in Creighton’s 2024-25 season opener when he erupted for 49 points on an astounding 20-for-22 shooting. This record-setting output included:
| Statistic | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Points | 49 | School record |
| Field Goals | 20 | School record |
| FG Percentage | 90.9% | 20/22 shooting |
His 28-point performance on 12-of-14 shooting against Xavier further demonstrated his offensive consistency. NBA teams value his high-percentage finishing ability, particularly as a pick-and-roll target.
Rebounding Strength
While not as flashy as his scoring or shot-blocking, Kalkbrenner’s rebounding has been steady and impactful throughout his Bluejays career. His positioning and anticipation allow him to secure crucial boards on both ends.
His frame allows him to establish position against opposing big men, and he’s shown particular skill on the defensive glass. Against Xavier, he pulled down seven rebounds to complement his scoring and shot-blocking.
NBA scouts note his improved rebounding technique as evidence of his development. While not an elite athletic rebounder, his fundamentals and positioning project well as complementary skills at the professional level.
His ability to contribute across multiple statistical categories makes him the complete package as a modern center, with rebounding completing his profile as a two-way impact player.
Recognition and Awards
Ryan Kalkbrenner’s towering presence in college basketball has earned him numerous accolades recognizing his defensive prowess and overall excellence. His trophy case continues to fill with both conference recognition and national honors that cement his legacy at Creighton.
Conference Accolades
Kalkbrenner’s dominance in the Big East cannot be overstated. He was named a unanimous first-team All-Big East selection for the 2024-25 season, establishing himself as one of the conference’s elite players.
His most impressive achievement may be winning his fourth consecutive Big East Defensive Player of the Year award in 2025. This remarkable feat puts him in elite company, as he joins Georgetown legend Patrick Ewing as the only players to win this award four times.
The Creighton center also collected weekly honors throughout his career, including being named BIG EAST Player of the Week during the 2024-25 season.
National Honors
Kalkbrenner’s reputation extends well beyond the Big East. In 2025, he was named to the prestigious John R. Wooden Award All-America Team, one of basketball’s highest individual honors.
His defensive excellence earned national recognition when he was named the NABC Defensive Player of the Year for 2025, solidifying his reputation as college basketball’s premier rim protector.
Multiple organizations recognized his all-around game with All-America honors, including second-team All-American selections from both the USBWA and NABC in 2025.
NBA scouts have taken notice, with Kalkbrenner projected as a late first-round pick in most mock drafts. His elite shot-blocking, improved offensive game, and championship experience make him an intriguing prospect for teams seeking defensive anchors.
Player Development and Future Prospects
Ryan Kalkbrenner has transformed from a lanky freshman prospect into one of college basketball’s most dominant centers during his Creighton career. His growth trajectory and specific skill set have positioned him as an intriguing NBA draft candidate despite the changing landscape for traditional big men.
Growth at Creighton
When Kalkbrenner arrived at Creighton, he was a skinny 7-footer with potential but limited offensive skills. Four years later, he’s become a defensive anchor and efficient scorer.
His progression has been remarkable:
| Season | PPG | RPG | BPG | FG% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020-21 | 5.9 | 3.5 | 1.2 | 64.2% |
| 2021-22 | 13.1 | 7.7 | 2.6 | 67.5% |
| 2022-23 | 15.9 | 6.1 | 2.1 | 71.9% |
| 2023-24 | 17.3 | 7.6 | 2.9 | 68.7% |
His defensive instincts have drawn comparisons to classic rim protectors like Patrick Ewing, though with a modern touch. Kalkbrenner’s development under coach Greg McDermott has been particularly evident in the post, where his footwork and touch around the rim improved dramatically.
As a two-time Big East Defensive Player of the Year, he established himself as the conference’s premier shot-blocker while expanding his offensive repertoire beyond just dunks.
Potential NBA Career
While the NBA has trended toward versatile bigs who can shoot from distance, Kalkbrenner still offers valuable skills that translate to the professional level.
His enormous wingspan and shot-blocking ability make him an intriguing defensive prospect.
Most draft analysts project Kalkbrenner as a potential second-round selection in the 2025 NBA Draft. His age (23) works against him in a league obsessed with upside, but his refined skills and basketball IQ counterbalance this concern.
Teams like the Boston Celtics have shown interest in his profile as a backup center who can protect the rim and finish efficiently. The Celtics’ development of Payton Pritchard offers a parallel for how experienced college players can find specific roles at the next level.
Kalkbrenner’s limitations—particularly his lateral quickness and perimeter defense—will determine his NBA ceiling. Still, his elite finishing ability (nearly 70% from the field for his career) and defensive timing give him a pathway to becoming a valuable rotation player.
Impact Beyond the Court
Ryan Kalkbrenner’s influence stretches far beyond his impressive 7’1″ frame and shot-blocking prowess. The Creighton big man has become a cornerstone of the Bluejay community during his collegiate career.
His community engagement has made him a beloved figure in Omaha. Kalkbrenner regularly participates in youth basketball clinics. At these events, he shows remarkable patience with young players eager to learn from the towering center.
“The kids light up when Ryan walks in,” says one Creighton staff member. “He doesn’t just show up—he truly connects with them.”
Kalkbrenner has also championed several charitable initiatives. These include food drives and hospital visits. These efforts showcase his understanding that basketball provides him a platform to make meaningful change.
His leadership extends to his teammates as well. The center has mentored younger Bluejay players, helping them navigate the challenges of college basketball and academics.
NBA Draft Potential
| Metric | Ranking | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mock Draft Position | 21-30 | Late first-round projection |
| Defensive Rating | Top 5 | Among all NCAA centers |
| Basketball IQ | Excellent | Praised by scouts |
| NBA Readiness | High | Mature game, but limited ceiling |
NBA scouts appreciate Kalkbrenner’s defensive instincts and high-percentage finishing. His 7’1″ frame and shot-blocking ability make him an intriguing prospect, though his age (23) places him among the older draft candidates.
The Celtics have shown interest in the defensive-minded center, recognizing his immediate potential to contribute as a rim protector.
