Having played three seasons in the Big East Conference, Xavier had yet to beat Villanova. That all changed on Wednesday night, when the Musketeers knocked off the Wildcats by a score of 90-83 and put themselves back into the conversation for a Big East title, as well as a top-two seed in the NCAA Tournament.
Edmond Sumner poured in 19 points, nine assists, and six rebounds, reminding the country that he has, in many ways, become the key to this team’s success. When he plays poorly, like at Creighton, Xavier becomes a very good but not elite team in the country. When he’s on his game, as he has been the past four outings, Xavier is a true Final Four threat.
Xavier now sits just one half game back in the standings from Villanova, with a road trip left to Seton Hall and a home date with Creighton. The Bluejays knocked off Xavier in Omaha last time the two met, so Xavier will surely be looking to grab some revenge. Villanova is left with a trip to Marquette, but home games against DePaul and Georgetown, hardly squads that should have them shaking in their boots.
Even if the Musketeers don’t win the conference, you have to think that this team is gaining some momentum to make a run through the conference tournament and, ultimately, the NCAA Tournament. Could they make a Final Four run? Could they make a run at the title? I don’t think there’s anyone in the country ready to count them out, especially with Sumner being as fantastic as he has.
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