Nova Report
#10 Villanova travels to the Dunkin Donuts Center to take on #8 Providence (21-2) at 8:00 pm. The line is Nova-4.5/132.
Providence is a perfect 14-0 at home and as most of you know by now is a perfect 9-0 in games decided by 5 or less points. They are also a perfect 7-0 as an underdog as they have both covered and won outright each of those games. They haven?t had a season like this since the Ernie D/Marvin Barnes era about 50 years ago. It is a huge game for them as they can all but wrap up the Big East Conference title with a win this evening. The Dunk will be rockin? and, take it to the bank, if you?re driving by it on I-95, you?ll hear the crowd.
The Friars are led by a trio of players averaging 13 ppg: Durham, Watson and Bynum. However, Bynum has averaged 25 ppg in his last three and shot 63% from the field including 71% from 3. In their last game vs DePaul, he literally willed them to a win. Additionally, Horchler (10 ppg) seems to make big hoops when the Friars need a basket the most. Statistically, they don?t do anything great which is why the computer models have them ranked well below Villanova. Note to computers: winning counts.
As for the Wildcats, they still have three guards not at 100%. Gillespie looked a little better last out but clearly was in pain, Moore looked improved as did Antoine. These guys will give a 100% even though they are not physically 100%. Dixon needs to come up big vs. 7 footer Watson?not an easy chore. Samuels whose family lives about 1/2 hour away will need to attack the rim relentlessly and Daniels will need to be hot from deep. The Cats know they can still take the Conference title with a win tonight. A loss and it?s over. As Jay Wright has said: it?s games like these why kids come to Villanova. This should be a classic?if you can, it?s worth two hours of your time.
What will happen: First of all, we know Providence plays and wins close games. Recent history also tells you that these teams play close games against each other. This will come down to Bynum vs Gillespie. Everyone will do their part. Bodies will be flying all over the floor. The crowd will be deafening. This is what college basketball is all about. Nova has an edge at the foul line and will look to exploit that. Providence has an edge in depth as they play 8 men, all who could be starters.
My play: 5 point teaser with Providence +9.5/Over 127
Nova Pick Record: 10-14-1