The VCU Rams continued their post-season journey Wednesday night, defeating the top-seeded Villanova Wildcats 70-61 in the opening round of the National Invitation Tournament. The win, which took place at Villanova’s Finneran Pavilion, marks a significant upset for the Rams (23-13) and a disappointing start and end to the postseason for the Wildcats (18-16).
VCU’s Defense Stifles Wildcats’ Offense
The key to VCU’s success was their stifling defense. The Rams held Villanova to just 61 points, well below their season average. Leading the charge off the bench was senior guard Joe Bamisile, who poured in a game-high 17 points on a highly efficient 6-for-9 shooting performance from the field. Max Shulga added 10 points and dished out six assists, orchestrating the offense effectively.
Bamisile Sparks VCU’s Offense
Bamisile wasn’t the only Ram to contribute offensively. Alphonzo Billups III chipped in with nine points, including three triples, in the first half to propel VCU to a 31-30 lead at the break.
Villanova Struggles to Find Rhythm
While Eric Dixon continued his impressive season for Villanova with a double-double of 21 points and 13 rebounds, the Wildcats struggled to find their usual offensive rhythm. Turnovers plagued their performance, and their three-point shooting, usually a strength, was off target. They shot 26.1% from long range for the night. Despite battling back in the second half, Villanova couldn’t overcome VCU’s defensive pressure and clutch free throw shooting down the stretch. The lead changed hands several times, but Toibu Lawal’s free throw with 4:40 remaining proved to be the turning point, giving VCU a 59-58 lead they wouldn’t relinquish.
Looking Ahead
The win propels VCU into the second round of the NIT, where they’ll face South Florida on Sunday, March 24th at 7:30 PM ET on ESPNU.
