The Pioneers got out to a 17-13 lead against the Wildcats in the first 8 minutes of the game, but Villanova proceeded to finish the half on a 39-9 run en route to a 34-point victory. The engine behind the blowout win was the three-point line, which had eluded the ‘Cats to start the season. Villanova more than made up for that in this one, setting a new school record with 22 makes from deep (on 43 attempts for 51.2%). The previous record was 19 made threes, which was set just last year against Temple on December 7th. Villanova tied that record with 14:43 remaining in the game.
Bryce Lindsay and Devin Askew were the primary reasons for the historic night, as the two combined for 16 three-pointers made. Lindsay set a new school record for threes made in a game with 9 (the previous record was 8). The James Madison transfer is averaging 24.7 points per game to start the year. Tyler Perkins and Chris Jeffrey, who returned from a one-game absence due to an ankle injury he suffered in practice, each chipped in two threes of their own.
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Villanova won the rebounding battle for the third-straight game. Duke Brennan led that charge with his second double-double of the season, recording 10 points and 11 rebounds in only 19 minutes.
For the second time in four days, the Wildcats were able to contain the opponent’s best player. Preseason First Team All-MAAC selection Anquan Hill was held to only 7 points and 2 rebounds in his 31 minutes played. The Pioneers were led by Mekhi Conner, who scored 15 points on 5/15 shooting.
Missing in this one were Tafara Gapare (foot) and Zion Stanford (ankle).
Postgame Presser:
Villanova next takes on 3-0 Duquesne on Saturday at the ‘Finn. Duquesne is coming off of an 87-81 overtime win against Queens NC, who the Wildcats defeated by 20 on Saturday.
