VILLANOVA, PA – The Marquette men’s basketball team is keenly focused on securing its first road victory of the season as they face Villanova on February 10 at Finneran Pavilion. With a record of 9-15 and 4-9 in the Big East Conference, the Golden Eagles are looking to break through against the Wildcats, who boast an impressive 18-5 record and a 9-3 conference standing.
Head coach Shaka Smart’s squad has historically fared well at Villanova’s on-campus arena—having never lost during his four seasons there, although they did suffer a defeat to the Wildcats at Wells Fargo Center last season. Marquette had previously met Villanova on January 10, narrowly losing 76-73, a game where they felt they missed crucial opportunities in the closing minutes.
As the game unfolds, senior guards Ben Gold and Chase Ross have encountered trouble early on, both picking up two fouls and struggling to contribute offensively in the first half. Combined, they have yet to score, while teammates Adrien Stevens and Royce Parham have combined for 21 of the team’s 27 points. Villanova currently leads 31-27 with just under four minutes remaining in the first half.
The Wildcats started strong, thanks in part to Tyler Perkins, who hit two three-pointers and helped his team shoot 50% from beyond the arc early in the game. Marquette’s issues have been compounded by five turnovers, which have allowed Villanova to take nine more shot attempts.
Marquette’s probable starters for the game include guards Nigel James Jr., Adrien Stevens, and Chase Ross, along with forwards Ben Gold and Royce Parham. Despite their challenges this season, the Golden Eagles have been gaining valuable experience as they lean on their younger players to grow and improve.
As the teams prepare for tip-off at 6:30 p.m. CT on TNT, hopes remain high for Marquette fans. The Golden Eagles look to build on their progress and potentially upset Villanova during this tough matchup. The odds favor Villanova by 9.5 points, but the underdog spirit remains alive in Marquette, hoping for a turnaround in their fortunes on the road.