VILLANOVA, Pa. – A classic BIG EAST rivalry will be reignited on Saturday as Villanova (7-2 overall, 0-0 BIG EAST) takes on Pittsburgh (5-5 overall, 0-0 ACC) at 4:30 p.m. at Finneran Pavilion. Fans eager to witness the matchup will be pleased to know that a limited number of tickets remain available for purchase.
Villanova recently experienced a setback, having its impressive seven-game winning streak snapped during an 89-61 loss at No. 2 Michigan. The Wildcats struggled offensively, shooting just 33.9% from the field and scoring a season-low 61 points. Head coach Kyle Neptune highlighted the Wolverines’ exceptional defense as a key challenge, noting, “Everyone talks about their offense, but it’s their defense that really stood out to me.”
Despite the loss, Villanova’s advanced metrics remain solid, with the team ranked No. 39 by Ken Pomeroy. Graduate transfer guard Caleb Daniels led the Wildcats with 18 points in the Michigan game and has averaged 17.5 points over his last two outings. Freshman guard Justin Moore, the BIG EAST’s leader in assists, emphasized the importance of mentorship from Daniels, who has been an invaluable resource for the newcomers on the team.
In the spirit of the holiday season, Saturday’s game will feature several festive elements. Fans are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys to donate to CityTeam, a local organization providing support to those in need. Members of the Villanova team will assist in delivering the toys next week. Additionally, fans will have the opportunity for photos with Santa on the concourse level prior to the game, near the display celebrating the Wildcats’ 1985 NCAA national championship.
The rivalry between Villanova and Pittsburgh dates back to their time in the BIG EAST from 1982 to 2013, with Pitt leading the series 33-32. The Panthers have won the last six encounters, but Villanova’s last victory remains a storied moment, as they triumphed in the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament in 2009 with a last-second shot by Scottie Reynolds.
Villanova is set to visit Pittsburgh next season, making this game a significant precursor to future showdowns. The matchup will be broadcast nationally on TruTV, with a local radio broadcast available through the Villanova Sports Radio Network. After this game, the Wildcats will enter exam week before resuming play on Friday against Wisconsin at the Milwaukee Hoops Showdown.
As the Wildcats look to bounce back after their loss, fans can expect an exciting atmosphere filled with competitive spirit and community goodwill this Saturday.