Villanova Women’s Basketball Rides Eight-Game Win Streak into Monday Matchup with DePaul
Villanova University’s women’s basketball team will resume play on Monday, December 29, with a road game against DePaul University, carrying an impressive eight-game winning streak and a strong start to conference play. The Wildcats boast an overall record of 10-2 and are undefeated at 3-0 within their conference, while the Blue Demons currently stand at 3-11 with an 0-3 conference record. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. Eastern Time at Wintrust Arena in Chicago.
Wildcats Look to Continue Dominance Against Blue Demons
This contest marks the 35th all-time meeting between Villanova and DePaul. While DePaul currently leads the series with a 20-14 advantage, Villanova has demonstrably turned the tide, winning the last eight consecutive matchups. This recent dominance underscores Villanova’s current form and confidence heading into the game.
Challenging Schedule Amidst Academic Break
Villanova faces a unique scheduling challenge due to the convergence of end-of-semester final exams and the Christmas holiday. The team is navigating a stretch of playing only two games within a 22-day span. They secured a victory over Saint Joseph’s on December 7, followed by home wins against Seton Hall on December 19 and St. John’s on December 22, before a seven-day break precedes their game at DePaul.
Bascoe and Lee: A Reunion on the Court
Monday’s game will hold a special significance for Villanova sophomore guard Jasmine Bascoe and DePaul junior guard Sumer Lee. The two athletes, both wearing jersey number 11, were previously high school teammates at King’s Christian in Toronto. Bascoe currently leads the Wildcats in both scoring, averaging 18.4 points per game, and assists, with 53 total. Lee has appeared in 14 games for DePaul, contributing 22 points to the Blue Demons’ efforts.
Wildcats’ Offensive Firepower on Display
Villanova’s offensive prowess was on full display in their 85-48 victory over St. John’s on December 22, marking the third time this season the team has had five players score in double figures. That game saw Bascoe (21 points), Ryanne Allen (13 points), Kelsey Joens (12 points), Brynn McCurry (10 points), and Denae Carter (10 points) all reach double-digit scoring. The Wildcats previously achieved this feat against James Madison and Temple.
Allen Shines from Beyond the Arc
Ryanne Allen has emerged as a key threat from three-point range, shooting 8-of-12 from beyond the arc in her last two games. Against Seton Hall on December 19, Allen tied her career-high with 19 points, fueled by a 5-of-7 performance from three-point territory. She continued her hot streak against St. John’s, going 3-of-5 from downtown. Allen currently averages 8.5 points per game and boasts a .478 three-point shooting percentage (22-of-46), ranking second on the team in made three-pointers.
Looking Ahead: Creighton Awaits on New Year’s Day
Following their contest in Chicago, Villanova will return home to host Creighton University on New Year’s Day, with tip-off scheduled for noon. This game will provide another opportunity for the Wildcats to build on their winning momentum as they navigate the remainder of the season.
