How big was Saturday’s win over UCLA for Kyle Neptune and Villanova?

After starting the 2023-24 college basketball season with a spectacular 6-1 record and Battle 4 Atlantis Tournament Championship (wins over Texas Tech, North Carolina and Memphis), Villanova dropped their next three contests to fall to 6-4 on the year.  Following the Wildcats’ third consecutive loss to Kansas State on the road in overtime, many Villanova faithful’s were vehemently calling for Kyle Neptune’s job. I mean, under Jay Wright, the Wildcats reached the NCAA Tournament 16 times and captured two National titles, so you have to keep in mind that the fans are used to success on a yearly basis. You can’t follow up a disappointing 17-16 finish in year 1 to a lackadaisical 6-4 start to year two and expect your supporters to remain silent.

Saturday’s home contest against UCLA was virtually a must-win game for Neptune and the Wildcats in my opinion, and their play on the court reflected that in every way imaginable. Even without one of their most valuable contributors, Justin Moore (sidelined due to injury), Villanova used a tremendous defensive performance (Bruins scored under 40 points in each half) and competent offensive showing to down UCLA 65-56. They only had 25 points on the scoreboard at the break, but their improved shot selection and aggressive play at the rim led to a 40-point second half and nine-point victory. Tyler Burton led all scorers with 18 points while the rest of the bunch combined for 47. Although the Wildcats have a long way to go before they pop up in the NCAA Tournament conversation, it was nice to see them regroup and secure a pivotal home win over a solid Power 5 opponent. The Wildcats will return to action on December 20th when they face off against the 8th ranked Creighton Bluejays in Omaha, Nebraska.