Lycoming News

The University of Pennsylvania men's basketball team concluded their Big 5 pod play with a defeat against Villanova, losing 93-49 on Tuesday night. This result places Penn at 2-3 overall and 0-2 in pod play, positioning them to compete in the first game of the Big 5 Classic scheduled for Saturday, December 7. Villanova improved its record to .500, standing at 3-3 overall and 1-1 in Big 5 pod play.

During the game, Junior Michael Zanoni led Penn's scoring with nine points. Juniors Johnnie Walter and Ethan Roberts, along with freshman Michelangelo Oberti, each contributed seven points. Senior Nick Spinoso and sophomore Sam Brown both provided three assists for Penn. Sophomore Augustus Gerhart topped the team's rebounding efforts with five rebounds while adding five points.

Villanova's performance was highlighted by four players reaching double figures in scoring. Eric Dixon led with 23 points, Wooga Poplar added 19, and Jhamir Brickus scored 16 while achieving a game-high eight assists. Former Quaker Tyler Perkins came close to a double-double with 12 points and a game-high nine rebounds, alongside three steals.

The game began competitively with both teams showing strong shooting performances. Villanova started by making six out of seven shots (including three three-pointers), while Penn matched closely by hitting four out of six (with two from beyond the arc). The Wildcats maintained a narrow lead at the first media timeout and extended it slightly as the half progressed. Despite Penn closing in within one point midway through the first half, they experienced a prolonged scoring drought that lasted well into the second half. During this period, Villanova widened their lead significantly by outscoring Penn 30-3.

Looking ahead, Penn will take part in the Cathedral Classic Invitational over Thanksgiving Weekend. They are set to face Navy on Friday at 4:30 p.m., Maine on Saturday at the same time, and Elon on Sunday at 2:30 p.m., participating in doubleheaders throughout all three days.

For ongoing updates about Penn men's basketball activities, followers can check @PennMBB on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram or visit their website at PennAthletics.com.