Returning to the Main Line in the fall of 2025, junior guard Tyler Perkins was one of three players on the roster who had worn the Wildcat jersey in the spring before.
The Virginia native started his college career at the University of Pennsylvania in the 2023-24 season, before he transferred to Villanova in 2024.
During his first season with the ‘Cats, Perkins averaged 6.3 points per game, along with totalling 36 assists, 9 blocks and 38 steals.
Following Perkins’ announcement last May that he would be staying with the team, then incoming head coach Kevin Willard spoke about the significance of his presence.
“We are excited that Tyler will remain at Villanova,” said Willard. “Tyler has a unique ability to rebound from the guard position and is also an outstanding perimeter defender. He has made big-time shots at the college level, is an improved three-point shooter, and understands what it takes to play in the Big East. Tyler’s consistency at both ends of the court makes him a great fit for our program.”
In the fall, Perkins shared a statement with The Villanovan about his excitement to be remaining with the team and what being one of three returning Wildcats meant to him.
“It feels like just yesterday I was the freshman walking into the college team not knowing really anything, so it’s kind of flown by. I’m the leader and the older guy now, and I’m ready for it.” Perkins said. “Just stepping into the role of being a leader, I feel like I’ve learned from past guys, Eric Dixon and Jordan Longino…now I feel like it’s my turn to be the leader on the team and show my experiences.”
This season, Perkins averaged 13.7 points per game and tallied 51 assists this season. His total blocks and steals remained identical in his second season with the ‘Cats.
His accomplishments during Big East Conference play earned Perkins the Big East honor of most improved player in the 2025-26 season.
As well as improving his own game, Perkins feels that this season has prepared the ‘Cats well for competition in the NCAA Tournament
“Just the types of teams we play in the Big East, the physicality, the attention to detail and playing the full 40 minutes [have prepared us for the tournament],” Perkins said. “We’re definitely going to use those habits in the tournament.”
After the ‘Cats failed to make March Madness in 2025, Selection Sunday felt especially rewarding for Perkins, considering that he knows what it’s like to not have the team success that the Wildcats do now.
“It’s a blessing. I’ve been waiting for this moment. We’ve all been waiting for this moment, and we all deserve this moment too,” Perkins said about making the tournament for the first time. “We’re glad to be part of it, and now we got work to do.”
Though the team is a newly meshed squad, Perkins feels that their natural chemistry has played a role in their success.
“It’s 13 new guys, but it feels like we’ve been playing together our whole lives,” Perkins said. “We get along and the coaches do a great job of holding us accountable and making sure that we’re doing what we’re supposed to do.”
Perkins’ former team, Penn, stands alongside Villanova as the one of two Philadelphia teams making an NCAA Tournament appearance.
“I definitely called some of my friends on that team and congratulated them,” Perkins said. “Hopefully we see them whether it’s in the final four or wherever. I’m happy for them and to see two Philly teams in the NCAA Tournament..all the colleges around here are great colleges that have great programs.”
Perkins will take on the ultimate task of his college basketball career as the ‘Cats travel to San Diego, CA, taking on Utah State in the first round of March Madness. If it’s anything like his Villanova career, Perkins is in the tournament for the long run.
