Nova Report
The Wildcats are in Indianapolis to take on the Butler Bulldogs at noon eastern in historic Hinkle Fieldhouse. Butler is 13-17 and ending their regular season with Senior Day. The line is Nova -8.5/127.5.
Hinkle has not been a favorite spot of the Cats going 4-4 as of late. Nova also beat Butter 82-42 about 6 weeks ago. That night, the Wildcats knocked in 12 3?s and shot 63% from beyond the arc. So, Hinkle, Senior Day, revenge game and Butler with nothing to lose.
For the Bulldogs, Bo Hodges has been a difference maker pouring in 25 points in each of his last two. He did not play vs Nova 6 weeks ago. Bryce Golden, Senior forward, will be charged up. PG Chuck Harris has been struggling as of late. Butler has been plagued by turnovers and poor shot selection in the second half of games leading to giving away games where they led. Evidenced by up by 19 vs Providence and losing by 1.
For the Villanova Wildcats, they know it will be a tough game. They just want to keep their momentum up going into the Conference Tournament. Butler does not defend the 3 well so look for more shots than usual from deep. Additionally, Dixon is a completely different player than what Butler faced previously so look for him to be fed early and often.
What Will Happen: I would not be surprised to see Butler play a faster pace than normal. They?ll see if Hodges is still hot. Golden will likely test the Cat rim defense as will Nze. Nova will slow the pace and try to keep the crowd out of it by nailing 3?s.
My Nova Pick: 5 point teaser Butler+13.5/Over 122.5
Nova Pick Record: 12-16-1