Villanova finally looks unscathed.
Justin Moore is back from a torn Achilles tendon suffered in the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament last season. Jordan Longino has recovered from a foot injury.
So it's no surprise that the Wildcats are looking for their third straight win when they host Butler on Tuesday.
Villanova (12-13, 6-8 Big East) defeated Seton Hall 58-54 in Philadelphia on Saturday. A win over the Bulldogs would get the Wildcats back to .500 and peaking at the right time.
"I think this is the first time we've had all our guys back all year," Villanova coach Kyle Neptune said. “I wouldn't say these guys are 100% healthy, but it's good to have them back. While they were gone, it's nice that the other guys had time to settle into their roles and I think it's paying off. we." Now."
Eric Dixon led the Wildcats with 19 points and Caleb Daniels added 18, including his 1,000th career point at the school since transferring from Tulane.
"Caleb was great," Neptune said. "We all know he is a goalscorer. It can catch fire and crash. He had a lot of hits in the last two games. But I think he really pushes us defensively. it was a wonderful time.
Butler will also be looking for its third straight win. The Bulldogs (13-13, 5-10) were undeterred. 13 Xavier 69-67 Fri.
Jayden Taylor led the way with 20 points and Manny Bates added 19 points. Eric Hunter Jr. went through the net and attempted a dunk with 2.5 seconds left. The keeper declared and Butler secured a thrilling win.
"I had no doubt he would survive," Bates said. "I just got the screen and wanted Eric to finish it."
Taylor has steadily improved and his confidence was evident against the Musketeers.
"I would just say that my teammates and coaches believe in me and the work that I've done," Taylor said. "I know that my teammates know that I can play, the coaches know. They pointed out that I was just a basketball player. When you're there, just play."
Bates also performed at a high level, going 9 of 10 from the field.
"It's kind of an emphasis that we're trying to put on and take off because I'm starting to move on quickly," Bates said. "Coach (Tad Matta) expects me to play the right way when needed. If I have to kill, I can kill. If someone is available, everyone knows I can find someone who is available."
--Field support
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