Pitt vs Villanova. Full preview

by Emily Mallon


ESPN Gameday rolls into Philadelphia this weekend to cover Pitt vs. Villanova. Although WVU is Pitt's true rival, Villanova has risen to the top of Pitt fans most hated list in the past few years. After all, Pitt was seconds away from the Final Four when Scottie Reynolds dribbled the length of the court and scored. Thus beating Pitt by one and stamping 'Nova's ticket to the Final Four while Pitt fans could do nothing but hope for another opportunity in the coming years. This could be that year!


The 2009 Pitt team was arguably the most talented with Levance Fields, Sam Young, and Dejuan Blair. But this Pitt team is deeper and has better shooting. When they play to their capability, the Panthers pose serious problems for any team that faces them.

Pitt is at the top of the Big East right now at 10-1 and Villanova is tied for fourth place with Louisville at 7-4. Villanova is coming off a tough loss to Rutgers on Wednesday night so they're going to be ready to play. (Remember first year Rutgers head coach Mike Rice was coaching Robert Morris last year when they almost took out Villanova in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. That was clearly not lost on his team as they mounted a last second comeback to top Villanova).



What to look for in this match up:

Guard Play: Both teams may be playing without important scorers. Ashton Gibbs is still out with an MCL injury for Pitt and Corey Stokes may be out on Saturday with turf toe (although I expect him to play). Pitt proved they can win on the road without Gibbs on Monday. Plus, Brad Wannamaker is from Philadelphia so he'll be ready to score. Villanova has an offensive machine on their side in Corey Fisher, so Pitt will need to lock it down on defense.



Battle of the Boards: Pitt is bigger inside so look for a big game from the always consistent Gary McGhee. Dante Taylor is gaining more confidence as the season progresses so don't be surprised to see a few dunks and boards from him as well.



Star Power: In a prime time Saturday night showdown look for both teams stars to step it up and make plays. It'd be nice to see Gilbert Brown have a huge game for the Panthers.

I think this game will come down to which team is having a better shooting night. Even if Pitt dominates inside, they can't trade 2's for 3's all night and Villanova can shoot 3's. Pitt is going into the game confident and ready to play. Villanova will approach the game hungry for redemption and try to show the country that they're one of the best in the Big East.



It's going to be intense, but what else would you expect from a Pittsburgh vs. Philadelphia sporting event. Let's Go Pitt!!!!!