The Villanova Wildcats delivered a thrilling performance last night, securing a 71-66 victory over the DePaul Blue Demons in their Big East conference matchup at Finneran Pavilion .
The game, held on December 31, 2025, was a nail-biter from the start, with both teams showcasing their resilience and skill. The Villanova Wildcats, known for their tenacity, demonstrated why they are a formidable force in college basketball . The Wildcats' victory brings their conference record to 6-6 .
The DePaul Blue Demons, despite a valiant effort, fell short, dropping their record to 2-11 in conference play . The Blue Demons' struggles were evident in their 19.4% three-point shooting performance. Eric Dixon, usually a standout scorer with an average of 24.2 points per game, was held to just 14 points. Instead, the scoring for DePaul came from Jordan Longino and Wooga Poplar, who combined for 29 points .
The turning point of the game came when Tyler Perkins made a crucial 26-foot three-pointer from the top of the arc, assisted by Acaden Lewis. This play not only energized the Villanova bench but also shifted the momentum in favor of the Wildcats . The Wildcats' ability to execute under pressure showcased their tactical prowess and mental fortitude, qualities that have long defined their success in the Big East .
The Villanova Wildcats, ranked 25th by KenPom and 33rd by Torvik, were clear favorites in this matchup. This game marked a significant victory for Villanova, especially considering their Big East rivals' pre-season rankings, with DePaul only ahead of Butler and Seton Hall in the preseason poll . The Wildcats' resilience and strategic gameplay were evident throughout the match .
The live coverage of this intense matchup was available on ESPN, providing fans with real-time updates, stats, and expert analysis . The game was also streamed on CBS Sports, offering comprehensive coverage of the Big East clash .
The Villanova Wildcats have proven themselves to be a team to watch in the 2025-2026 season, and their victory over the DePaul Blue Demons is a testament to their grit and determination. As the season progresses, fans can expect more thrilling performances from the Wildcats, continuing to solidify their position as a top contender in the Big East conference .
