Sun Jan 12 00:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Villanova Upsets No. 9 UConn in Thrilling Big East Showdown

**VILLANOVA, Pa.** – Eric Dixon’s explosive second-half performance propelled Villanova to a thrilling 68-66 victory over No. 9 UConn on Wednesday night. Dixon scored 18 of his 23 points in the final period, overcoming a sluggish start where he shot just 12.5% from the field. The Wildcats’ win snapped UConn’s eight-game winning streak.

The game went down to the wire, with UConn’s Alex Karaban missing two crucial free throws with 3.1 seconds remaining. Karaban finished with 10 points. Wooga Poplar added 18 points for Villanova (11-5, 4-1 Big East), while Solo Ball led UConn (12-4, 4-1) with 16.

The Wildcats led by as many as 12 points in the second half, but UConn mounted a late comeback. Poplar’s three-pointer with just under five minutes left proved to be the decisive basket, giving Villanova the lead for good. The victory marks a significant win for Villanova, who are back in the NCAA Tournament conversation after missing the past two seasons.

UConn played without star freshman Liam McNeeley due to a right foot injury. Despite the loss, the Huskies remain a strong contender in the Big East. The game, played in front of a Villanova crowd for the first time since 1995, marked a historic matchup for both teams.

Both teams return to action on Saturday; UConn plays at Georgetown, while Villanova travels to St. John’s.

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