WGL Sports Performer of the Day (2/18/17)

Villanova Wildcats Point Guard Jalen Brunson (22 points, 10 assists, 4 rebounds)

Things appear to be wide open in college basketball this season, which means this year’s NCAA tournament should bring plenty of excitement. Gonzaga remains undefeated, thanks in large part to a soft schedule, while many of the other teams continue to play musical chairs at the top of the rankings. Through it all though, the defending champion Villanova Wildcats continue to play like perhaps the best team in the country. The #2 ranked Wildcats traveled to Seton Hall for a tough conference road game yesterday, only to destroy the Pirates by a score of 92-70. Jalen Brunson was the man most responsible for orchestrating that dominating performance. The Villanova sophomore point guard had 22 points, 10 assists, and 4 rebounds in the victory.

For Brunson, the 10 assists are a career high, resulting in his first career double-double. He also shot a perfect 7 for 7 from the field, meaning he is the first player in the last 20 years to record at least 20 points and 10 assists while not missing a single shot from the field. Many people wondered how this Villanova team would fare after losing last year’s starting point guard, Ryan Arcidiacono to graduation. Brunson has more than held his own in that role, and he has Villanova on the cusp of doing something special this postseason. The win on Saturday against Seton Hall ensures Villanova of at least a share of the Big East title. They still have three more games remaining, meaning they are a lock to win their fourth consecutive conference crown. After that, this team once more looks primed for a deep tournament run, thanks again to the strength of their guard play. Villanova has a very real chance at becoming the first team to successfully defend their national title since Florida did so in 2006-07.