A classic rivalry and even after a few years apart since the conference breakup, old Big East foes Villanova and Syracuse reunited for a showdown at Madison Square Garden that brought back many familiar feelings — from an energized crowd, a scrappy game, and plenty of momentum swings that led to an exciting finish.
In the end, the No. 6-ranked Wildcats pulled away in the second half and defeated the Orange, 67-53.
“Great college basketball atmosphere, it was so cool starting that game — feel that place rocking and hear those fans, to see Syracuse Orange in there just like old times,” Villanova coach Jay Wright said.