All eight BIG EAST teams in action on Friday won their season openers on home floors. Saturday’s lone contest has DePaul playing its first game in its new Wintrust Arena against No. 14 Notre Dame.
Villanova, ranked No. 6 in both national polls, defeated Columbia 75-60 behind a balanced scoring effort. Four Wildcat starters reached double figures with Eric Paschall leading the way with 15 points and nine rebounds. Jalen Brunson had 14 points and freshman Omari Spellman had 11 points and 11 rebounds in his collegiate debut.
Xavier, 17th in both polls, ran away early from Morehead State, winning 101-49.