Butler Bulldogs vs Villanova Wildcats Picks and Predictions January 1st 2025

Villanova, Butler look to bounce back in first game of 2025

The New Year begins with a pivotal Big East Conference matchup as Villanova and Butler aim to recover from recent struggles. Set for Wednesday in Indianapolis, both teams see this game as an opportunity to steer their seasons back on track.

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Villanova’s Challenges and Strengths

Villanova (8-5, 1-1) enters the contest after an 86-79 loss at Creighton on Dec. 21. Despite a strong offensive showing, defensive lapses allowed Creighton to shoot an astounding 56% from beyond the arc. Head coach Kyle Neptune emphasized the need for defensive improvement:

“I thought we got a lot of good stuff offensively. I don’t know if that’s the best recipe, trying to outscore teams and not getting stops.”

The Wildcats have a potent offense, averaging 79.1 points per game, led by senior forward Eric Dixon. Dixon is not only the team’s top scorer but also leads all Division I players with an impressive 25.8 points per game. Complementing him are Wooga Poplar, who averages 13.2 points and 6.6 rebounds, and Jhamir Brickus, who contributes 11.5 points and 5.6 assists per game.

Defensively, Villanova ranks sixth in the conference, allowing 67.9 points per game. However, consistency on that end will be key as they look to stifle Butler’s offensive threats.

Butler’s Urgent Need for a Win

Butler (7-6, 0-2) comes into the game on a five-game losing streak. Despite their record, the Bulldogs have shown resilience in recent games, including a narrow 78-74 loss to then-No. 11 UConn on Dec. 21. After falling behind by 16 points, Butler mounted a furious comeback to tie the game before ultimately falling short. Head coach Thad Matta expressed optimism about the team’s grit:

“I did think we did a good job of getting ourselves back in the game and putting ourselves in position to win a basketball game.”

Butler’s offense, led by Jahmyl Telfort with 15.5 points and 3.4 assists per game, has been a bright spot. Telfort is supported by Andre Screen, who provides a strong presence in the paint with 6.2 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game.

Defensively, the Bulldogs have struggled, ranking ninth in the conference in points allowed per game (69.4). Improving their perimeter defense will be crucial after allowing UConn to shoot 45.8% from three-point range in their last game.

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Key Matchup Insights

Historically, Villanova has dominated the series, boasting a 17-7 record against Butler. However, recent meetings have been more competitive, with the teams splitting games in each of the past two seasons. Last year’s contest in Indianapolis was a double-overtime thriller, with Butler edging Villanova 88-81. Eric Dixon scored 28 points in that game, while Jahmyl Telfort led Butler with 22 points.

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Statistical Breakdown

Villanova holds the edge offensively and defensively, but Butler’s home-court advantage and recent history of close games suggest a tightly contested battle.

What to Watch For

• Villanova’s Perimeter Defense: After being torched by Creighton’s three-point shooting, the Wildcats must tighten their coverage against Telfort and Butler’s shooters.
• Butler’s Comeback Potential: The Bulldogs have demonstrated resilience, as seen in their rally against UConn. Can they carry that energy for a full 40 minutes?
• Eric Dixon’s Dominance: Dixon’s scoring touch will likely be a deciding factor. Butler’s interior defense, anchored by Andre Screen, must rise to the challenge.

Conclusion

With both teams eager to start 2025 on a high note, this game promises to be a competitive and exciting affair. Villanova’s high-scoring offense faces a resilient Butler team looking to break its losing streak. Whether it’s the Wildcats’ firepower or the Bulldogs’ tenacity that prevails, fans can expect a thrilling contest.