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Where to Watch, Steam, Listen
Watch: ESPN2
Stream: WatchESPN
Listen: 610 Sports WIP
Gamblin’ Odds:
Spread: Villanova (-13.5)
O/U: 145./146
Records ATS: Villanova (4-2-1) | St. Joe’s (2-4)
All Time Match-Up
Villanova leads the all-time series over St. Joe’s, 48-25.
What to Watch For
The Villanova Wildcats come into this game having notched a 28-point win over the Penn Quakers. That win continued Villanova’s undefeated season, bringing them up to a 7-0 record. They had five players in double figures, as Jalen Brunson led the way with 17 points and four assists. Mikal Bridges, Phil Booth and Omari Spellman each had 14 points, while potential Sixth Man of the Year and sophomore Donte DiVincenzo chipped in 12, seven rebounds and four assists.
St. Joe's just beat Bucknell 83-70 led by James Demery’s 20 points. Senior Shavar Newkirk notched an impressive 19 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists. Junior Chris Clover chipped in 17 points as well.
This, as always, is going to be a physical matchup between both teams. Nova's Killer B's (Brunson, Bridges and Booth) are going to have to match up against physical guards. I look forward to the matchup between Brunson and Demery. Newkirk is going to have his hands full with the potential first rounder Bridges.
Villanova has always had an issue with size, however this year I feel they have the upper hand. St. Joseph's front court will be tested. Villanova's ability to rotate in talented wings and big men. I'm not saying St. Joseph's won’t attack Villanova's inside defense, but what I will point out are moments of pure defensive prowess.
Will Jay Wright let the hogs run wild and break triple digits? We’ll have to wait and see.
Don’t expect this game to be easy either. St. Joe's always fights hard in The Holy War.