In this edition of Energy Exchange on the Big East Energy Network, hosts Matt Janus (Holy Nova podcast) and Rasheen Carbin (Bleeding Blue and Gray podcast) preview the upcoming Saturday rematch between Villanova and Georgetown in Washing DC.
Coming off a four-game winning streak, the Hoyas look to redeem themselves after a "humiliating" loss in Philadelphia earlier this month. The analysts break down the strategic shifts, player development, and the coaching philosophies of Kevin Willard and Ed Cooley that will define this rivalry matchup. Plus give their picks.
Georgetown’s Redemption Arc
The "New" Hoyas: After a disastrous 1–7 start to Big East play, Georgetown has won four straight. Carbon attributes this to the return of Julius Nwosu to pre-surgery form and the emergence of freshman guard Kayvon Mulready.
The Malik Mack Factor: Point guard Malik Mack struggled significantly in the first meeting, going 1-for-14 from the field. Since then, he has focused on "table setting" and trusting his teammates more.
Defensive Identity: The team has begun to resemble Cooley’s tough Providence squads, utilizing big guards and rim protection.
Villanova’s Tactical Edge
The Duke Brennan X-Factor: Janus identifies Duke Brennan as the biggest surprise for Villanova, calling him a "double-double machine" who controls the game through relentless movement and offensive rebounding.
Second-Half Adjustments: Kevin Willard’s strategy involves intensive halftime film review focused exclusively on defense to eliminate exploits found in the first half.
Committee Approach: Villanova lacks a singular "elite" shot-maker but succeeds by playing the "hot hand," rotating focus between Tyler Perkins, Acaden Lewis, Devin Askew, and Bryce Lindsay.
Key Matchups and Predictions are unveiled at the end, as well as the hosts identifying their favorite all-time players from the other program.
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