Villanova Topples Butler in Big East Opener; Matches Best Start in Program History

By PETER ROBERT CASEY

VILLANOVA, PA. – Balance is an oft-pursued ideal when it comes to New Year’s resolutions. But, not if you’re Villanova. The Wildcats have already found it.

In front of a packed Pavilion crowd, marking Villanova’s 153rd consecutive home sellout, the No. 6 Wildcats had four players register double-figures en route to an easy 67-55 conference-opening win over Butler on Wednesday afternoon. The Wildcats are now 13-0 (1-0 Big East) for the first time since the 1937-38 season.

Ryan Arcidiacono paved the way for Villanova with 15 points, followed closely by JayVaughn Pinkston (13), Kris Jenkins (11), Daniel Ochefu (10) and Darrun Hilliard (8).

“Just look at their numbers, they’re incredibly balanced,” Butler interim coach, Chris Holtmann, explained. “They’re so balanced in how they attack you inside and out. That’s why they’re elite. They have great balance and great depth.”