Villanova, Creighton and DePaul were the winners in league play on Saturday, while St. John’s picked up a non-conference victory.
Villanova defeated visiting Providence 71-56 in its second game back since a four-week absence. After trailing 27-24 at halftime, the Wildcats (10-1, 5-0 BIG EAST) surged in the second half to stay unbeaten in BIG EAST play. Guards Collin Gillespie and Justin Moore each scored 15 points. Jermaine Samuels added 10 points and 10 rebounds. The Wildcat defense helped force 19 PC turnovers. Providence was led by freshman guard Alyn Breed, who had 18 points, 11 rebounds for his first career double-double.