Seton Hall Makes Statement With Victory Over No. 6 Villanova

There is no question the Seton Hall Pirates are having quite the season. The magical ride continued with their impressive statement win over Big East rival Villanova Wildcats, a team that just so happened to be ranked No. 6 in the country.

Villanova was a school-record 13-0 prior to the upset loss. Despite the numerous mistakes throughout the contest, the Wildcats still had an opportunity to win the game in overtime. Unfortunately, they were only able to muster three points in extra time.

The mistakes included a dismal 20.8 percent (5-for-24) from beyond the arc and an embarrassing 57.1 percent (20-for-35) from the free throw line. In fact, it is the free throw percentage that is the telling tale, especially since Seton Hall won 66-61. The 15 missed free throws would have easily made up six points, which would have given Villanova the win. Instead, they must now look up at Seton Hall, a team that is 2-0 in the conference after their other impressive victory over St. John’s on Wednesday night.

Three players for Seton Hall hit double-digit points, while the team as a unit recorded nine steals and seven blocks. Guard Sterling Gibbs recorded 20 points, four assists and two steals on 40.0 percent shooting in 41 minutes. Khadeen Carrington also had a huge impact off the bench. The guard scored 17 points while converting an impressive 44.4 percent from the field and 90.0 percent from the free throw line.

With a 12-2 record and first place in the Big East, Seton Hall will next face off against Xavier on Jan. 7.

Michael Terrill is a Senior Writer for Rant Sports. Follow him on Twitter @MichaelTerrill, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.