Going into this contest, it was never really a contest. Villanova was projected as a number-one seed prior to the “Selection Show” on Sunday, March 13. However, a loss in the ACC Tournament to Seton Hall changed that. The Wildcats eventually got a 2 seed and needed to get past UNC-Asheville.

UNC-Asheville tried the three pointer at first; however, ‘Nova’s balanced attack proved to be no match for the Bulldogs. Villanova outscored the Bulldogs 40-26 at halftime.

The Bulldogs couldn’t capitalize and ended up losing 86-56. Going into the game, UNC-Asheville had the 3rd-best defense in the nation, only allowing some 60-65 points.

‘Nova was led by Daniel Ochefu, who scored 17 and freshman Jalyn Brunson from Chicago who ended up scoring 10 for the Wildcats. The Bulldogs were led by freshman Dylan Smith, who scored 14.

This win was an easy one for the Bulldogs. ESPN says “…The Wildcats even got some time for their walk-ons.” Their next contest, though, will be the real test. Villanova has not won a second- round game since 2009 when they made the Final Four. Those losses came as Villanova had been either a one or two seed.

Villanova will play the Iowa Hawkeyes, who defeated the Temple Owls, in the next round.