On Friday, Villanova defeated Providence 70-43 at Jake Nevin Fieldhouse.  

The beginning of the game was a back and forth contest, reminiscent of the previous meeting between these two teams. Providence came out aggressive inside, getting some early looks to fall. Friar junior guard Nogic racked up 7 quick points, looking much like the player who scored 26 against the ‘Cats back in December. However, a Kelly Jekot three at the four-minute mark of the opening quarter ignited an offensive outpouring for the Wildcats. This run, which ran through the second quarter, would transform Villanova’s early 10-6 deficit into a 43-19 halftime lead. Over this stretch, Villanova made nine straight baskets, six of which were from three. From Alex Louin knocking down a three and pull up jumper, to Mary Gedaka fighting through traffic to finish at the rim, to Bridget Herlihy knocking down a pair of threes, every member of the team was making key contributions. However, the standout from this stretch was Jannah Tucker, who accounted for four of the six made three-point shots in their nine basket streak. Additionally, Tucker provided the highlight of the night on a play that will undoubtedly go down as one of the most sensational plays of the year. With the first quarter winding down, Tucker launched a three-quarter court shot that effortlessly glided through the bottom of the net to beat the buzzer.

Villanova kept up the intensity coming out of half and never let Providence within striking distance. Mary Gedaka helped put the game on ice with her work down low, and tallied her 11th double digit scoring effort in the past 13 games. In the waning seconds, Villanova senior Nicolette Juliana provided one more highlight in a night full of them, as she drained her first three of the season in front of the home bench.

Villanova will look to wrap up their regular season at home this Sunday against Creighton. Tip-off is scheduled for 2pm, in what will be the senior’s final home game.