Seated in the stands behind Kansas University’s basketball bench, Nick Bahe cheered loudly as two of his former “Red Team” teammates played a significant role in Thursday’s 73-56 rout of New Orleans at Allen Fieldhouse.

Red-shirt sophomore Jeremy Case and senior Stephen Vinson combined for 18 points and five assists while logging 38 minutes, leading the Jayhawks to their seventh victory in 11 tries.

The performance of Bahe’s buddies – whose role, along with Bahe’s, once included running the upcoming opponent’s plays at KU practices – raised the question: Would the 6-foot-3 Lincoln, Neb., native also be playing meaningful minutes this season had he not elected to transfer to Creighton after last season?

“You never know,” Bahe said with a smile.

“I don’t look back. I’m pleased with my decision. I miss Kansas, (but) I’m really happy at Creighton. We’re 7-2. We beat Nebraska, our in-state rival, by 20 (70-44). We’ve had a lot of injuries and have had a lot of guys step up.”

As a transfer, Bahe – he’ll be a junior at the Omaha, Neb., school next season – can practice but not play in games.

“There’s definitely a lot of time, a lot of minutes are available next year. I just have to work hard every day,” said Bahe, who has been lifting weights up to four times a week, trying to bulk up his 190-pound frame.

“I’m getting stronger so I’ll be ready (next season).”

As a red shirt, Bahe can’t make road trips.

Since Creighton is on a road trip to Illinois, where the Jays will play Illinois State today and Bradley on Monday, he was able to make the short drive to Lawrence for a couple days.

He’s been staying with shooting guard Case, who hit four threes and scored a career-high 12 points Thursday. Vinson had six points, three assists and one turnover.

“Great,” Bahe said of the play of the Jayhawk guards. “A guy like Stephen has so much desire. Ask anybody, current players or former players who have seen him at workouts or pickup games, Stephen is really a good player. Just because he has not played in three years doesn’t mean he can’t play.

“I knew from the moment I got here (KU) my freshman year. He’s vocal, understands the game. He’s a natural leader. It’s what this group needs.”

Bahe was impressed with what he saw Thursday.

“The freshmen are as good as advertised,” Bahe said. “Mario (Chalmers) is doing the things he needs to do. Julian (Wright) came in and hit shots. I think it’s beginning to come together. It’s a matter of time. When the team clicks it’s going to be a beautiful thing. Coach (Bill) Self will get them as good as they can be.”

Bahe also used the word “beautiful” to describe the renovated fieldhouse.

“It’s the first time I’ve seen the new scoreboard,” he said. “I can’t believe how bright it is. Walking here you could see through the windows how bright it is. I remember it being a lot darker.”

Bahe said he had nothing but fond memories of KU.

“Me being here is evidence there’s no ill will at all,” Bahe said. “I love KU and I love Lawrence.”

– Assistant sports editor Gary Bedore can be reached at 832-7186.