The Villanova Wildcats came into this game prepared to battle, but the reigning national champion UConn Huskies proved too much, winning 78-54.
Villanova reduced UConn's advantage to five points, 45-40, with 11 minutes remaining, but the Huskies responded with a 14-1 run to bury the Cats.
The Wildcats missed multiple open jumpers, but what ultimately killed them was the rebounding disparity, with UConn leading 46-32.
The Huskies had the size edge, but is it evident that they had the raw talent advantage?
There is no questioning that the 'Cats gave it their all; nonetheless, they did not convert at the same rate as UConn, a national title team. Villanova missed open threes, going 1-for-10 in the first half, and missed multiple layups, which have plagued them all season.
Hurley's strategy, according to Gus Johnson, was to focus on Brendan Hausen, who has led the Cats to four wins in their last five games. Who knows what Villanova's late-game plan is? I suppose you play hard? Can you convince yourself that you have a chance?
Cam Spencer led the way for the Huskies, hitting shot after shot and finishing with a game-high 25 points (5-of-8 from three).
Stephon Castle, a projected lottery pick, scored 14 points, while Donovan Clingan added 13. Tristen Newton concluded with a triple-double, while Gus Johnson couldn't stop talking about it over the final four minutes of the game. Newton finished with 10 points, 10 assists, and a career-best 16 rebounds.
Eric Dixon did not convert at a high rate for Villanova, but he was the lone guy that came prepared to play and led the way, as he does most nights. Dixon finished with 20 points and 7 rebounds. T.J. Bamba contributed 13 points.
The Wildcats were not expected to win this game, but another one-basket close nailbiter like their previous clash would have done wonders for their tournament chances. Villanova has four games remaining until the Big East Tournament, and each game is vital to the Wildcats' postseason chances. Villanova has an opportunity to regain momentum against Georgetown on Tuesday night.
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