Sat Jan 10 19:50:00 UTC 2026: ### Marquette Seeks to Build Momentum Against Ranked Villanova After Ending Losing Streak

The Story:

The Marquette Golden Eagles, fresh off a 66-65 victory against Xavier on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, ending a six-game losing streak, face a tough challenge against the Villanova Wildcats on Saturday, January 10, 2026. Marquette, now 6-10 overall and 1-4 in the Big East, looks to capitalize on its first conference win. Villanova, ranked 24th in the USA TODAY coaches poll and boasting a 12-3 record (3-1 in the Big East), presents a significant obstacle, being the third-highest-ranked team in NET ratings that Marquette has faced this season (29th).

While Marquette has historically dominated Villanova at home, the Wildcats, led by new coach Kevin Willard, have been a surprise team in the league after being picked seventh in the Big East preseason poll. The game is anticipated to hinge on points off turnovers, a key area where both teams excel. Marquette’s freshman Nigel James has been a standout in Big East play, averaging 15.4 points per game.

Key Points:

  • Marquette defeated Xavier 66-65 on January 7, 2026, ending a six-game losing streak.
  • Marquette’s overall record is 6-10 and 1-4 in the Big East.
  • Villanova is ranked 24th in the USA TODAY coaches poll and has a 12-3 record (3-1 in the Big East).
  • Villanova is ranked 29th in NET ratings.
  • Marquette is 0-6 against top 50 teams in the NET this season.
  • Nigel James leads Marquette in Big East scoring, averaging 15.4 points per game.
  • Marquette has won seven of the last eight games between the teams and hasn’t lost to the Wildcats at home since December 2020.

Key Takeaways:

  • Marquette’s victory against Xavier provides a much-needed confidence boost but faces a significantly tougher test against a ranked Villanova team.
  • Villanova’s strong performance under a new coach adds an element of unpredictability to the matchup.
  • The game’s outcome is likely to be influenced by which team capitalizes on turnovers.
  • Marquette’s struggles against top-ranked teams this season highlight a need to improve against quality opponents.
  • The historical context suggests that this game is important in light of other sports games occurring that same day, such as Tottenham vs Aston Villa.

    Read More

Related News: