Villanova's Shocking 15-Point Comeback: How Their Three-Pointer Strategy Crushed Providence!

Villanova Wildcats Show Three-Point Prowess in Dominant Win Over Providence

VILLANOVA, PA. — In a stunning display of sharpshooting, the Villanova Wildcats defeated the Providence Friars 85-58 at the Finneran Pavilion on January 27, 2026. This victory marked a significant rebound for Villanova following a recent conference loss to St. John's.

The Wildcats showcased their exceptional three-point shooting, draining 15 of 34 attempts from beyond the arc, tying their season-high for three-pointers made in a game. Not only did they excel offensively, but they also exposed a vulnerability in Providence's defense, which allowed these 15 three-pointers—the most the Friars have surrendered in a single game this season.

“It opens the game up and the spacing on the floor,” said Villanova Coach Denise Dillon. “We talked this week about having those shooters; we just got to do a better job of finding them. You’ve got to continue to take the shot when it’s open and just feel good about it.”

Leading the charge for Villanova was freshman guard Brooke Bender, who delivered a career-best performance with 18 points, including 6 three-pointers. This was her fifth double-digit scoring game this season, demonstrating her growth and confidence on the court.

“I’ve been working on my shot all week, have the confidence and finding that again,” Bender remarked. “Just working on it all week and having the trust in myself that I was going to make those shots.”

Coach Dillon commended Bender's consistent work ethic since arriving on campus, emphasizing the importance of spreading the floor and sharing the basketball. The Wildcats executed an effective inside-outside game that kept the Friars’ defense on their toes, as forwards Brynn McCurry and Denae Carter each recorded five assists, demonstrating the team's improved ball movement. Dillon noted, “We had only 9 assists in the game against St. John’s compared to 22 in this game, and that’s not Villanova basketball.”

One of the pivotal stretches of the game occurred in the third quarter when Villanova responded to a three-pointer by Providence’s Orlagh Gormley. The Wildcats scored the next 12 points in just over two and a half minutes, highlighted by a pair of three-pointers from guard Kennedy Henry, extending their lead to 52-38. After that, Providence never got within single digits again.

Henry also contributed significantly, adding 16 points and tying her career-best with 4 three-pointers. Meanwhile, Jasmine Bascoe led all scorers with 22 points, marking her 19th game in double figures this season. She also contributed 6 assists, solidifying her role as a key playmaker.

The Wildcats' impressive three-point shooting matched their earlier season high set against Xavier, highlighting their offensive potential as they continue to fight for positioning in the Big East. With this win, Villanova improved to 16-5 overall and 9-3 in conference play, placing them in sole possession of second place, a half-game ahead of Seton Hall.

Looking ahead, Providence (10-12, 3-8) will return home to face St. John's on Saturday, while Villanova prepares to host DePaul, eager to build on this momentum. As the season progresses, the Wildcats' ability to find and utilize their shooters will be critical if they hope to make a significant impact in the Big East and beyond.