Villanova’s guards help Wildcats outlast Seton Hall’s comeback

Villanova, PA — Senior guard Alex Louin had a career high of 14 rebounds to extend Villanova’s winning streak to five games, as the Wildcats (20-5, 10-4 Big East) defeated conference rival Seton Hall (15-11, 7-8) in a 59-53 victory at the Jake Nevin Field House Sunday afternoon.

Louin recorded her fourth double-double of the season in back-to-back games, with 12 points and 14 rebounds. She was assisted by teammates Adrianna Hahn (10 points) and Kelly Jekot (12 points), as both scored in double-digits.

Villanova head coach Harry Perreta commented on today's close game.

“I was surprised by today’s game. They pressed hard and disrupted us, but Adrianna came through with some big threes and Alex came through with some big baskets," Perretta said.

Seton Hall and Villanova first met this season on Jan. 12 in South Orange, N.J., where the Wildcats tallied a 67-59 victory, with Jekot leading the Wildcats with 21 points.

Seton Hall senior guard JaQuan Jackson scored with 13 points and six rebounds. She was assisted by teammates Selena Philoxy (12 pts, 10 rebounds) and Kaela Hilaire (10pts, 6 rebounds).

Regardless of Jackson’s contributions, the team is still trying to find their chemistry since the release of star player Donnaizha Fountain, who had 28 points and 12 rebounds in the first meeting.

Seton Hall head coach Anthony Bozzella commented on Jackson stepping up to take over as the primary leader.

“As a senior captain, Jackson has done a good job stepping up," Bozzella said. "Everyone has had to step up in one way or another, but JaQuan has especially.”

Seton Hall’s offense does not look like a well-oiled machine, but they are still winning against teams they should beat and losing against the teams that are better.

With the win, Villanova clinched their sixth straight season of 20 or more wins.

Looking ahead to Feb. 16, Seton Hall will play their third road game against St. Johns at 7 p.m. ET, as Villanova heads to Milwaukee, Wis. to take on Marquette at 12:30 p.m. ET.