Villanova’s victory snaps two-game losing streak at The Pavilion … technical fouls called on both schools … Galloway, Jones pace Saint Joseph’s in defeat … Here’s what we noticed at Tuesday night’s edition of city’s famed Holy War …
1. For Whom the Bell tolls.
James Bell knocked down the go-ahead 3-pointer and then added a pair of free throws in the waning seconds to propel Villanova past Saint Joseph’s 65-61 at The Pavilion. Devoid of any stars on this year’s team, the Wildcats are going to need different players each night. This time, it was Bell. And his clutch shots snapped a maddening two-game losing streak at home.
2. Lived up to the hype.
Each team received a technical foul — one on the Villanova bench and one on Hawks forward C.J. Aiken. There were also 31 turnovers and too many deflected passes to count. You know what? That happens in a Big 5 game, especially one of this caliber, in “The Holy War.” Down the stretch, it was all about execution for the Wildcats. For the Hawks, not so much.
3. Guards, guards, guards.
Langston Galloway (22 points) and Carl Jones (16) combined for 38 points, including eight 3-pointers for Saint Joseph’s in the loss. If the Hawks continue to get this kind of strong guard play all season, they’re going to win a lot of games. This duo is as good as any in the Atlantic 10. Bell (12 points) and JayVaughn Pinkston (12) led Villanova.
