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Villanova Basketball: Keys to success for the Wildcats in 2019-20

By Lukas Harkins

PHILADELPHIA, PA - FEBRUARY 03: Collin Gillespie #2 of the Villanova Wildcats reacts against the Georgetown Hoyas in the second half at the Wells Fargo Center on February 3, 2019 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Villanova defeated Georgetown 77-65. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA - FEBRUARY 03: Collin Gillespie #2 of the Villanova Wildcats reacts against the Georgetown Hoyas in the second half at the Wells Fargo Center on February 3, 2019 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Villanova defeated Georgetown 77-65. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /
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VILLANOVA, PA – NOVEMBER 06: Bey of the Wildcats dribbles. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
VILLANOVA, PA – NOVEMBER 06: Bey of the Wildcats dribbles. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /

2. Sophomores take significant leaps.

Villanova’s 2018 recruiting class was ranked at No. 9 the country behind three top-75 commits and Saddiq Bey (No. 137 overall). Despite not being the highest-rated freshman, it was Bey who emerged as a major contributor last season while the rest struggled to find consistent minutes. Bey wound up averaging 8.2 points (.458/.374/.644), 5.1 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game. The talented forward is now one of the top returning players on the roster and will play a vital role this season as a presumed full-time starter.

In addition to Bey, there are two fellow returning sophomores that could be poised for impactful seasons. Cole Swider (No. 44 recruit) and Brandon Slater (No. 53) were both highly-regarded 2018 prospects that were unable to find significant roles last season. While it might be difficult for them to find consistent minutes this year as well, it is important to mention that having a full year of experience with the program under their belts might benefit them. Jahvon Quinerly was the other member of their 2018 class but he elected to transfer after a disappointing freshman season.

Bey is clearly the most important sophomore as he is already a strong contributor but I wouldn’t count Swider or Slater out as potential rotation pieces. Coach Wright essentially likes to run a 7-8 man rotation and there is room for these sophomores to find solid reserve roles at 10-20 minutes per game. If they live up to their former hype, then Villanova’s depth will be fantastic. This key is not essential for Villanova but it might take the team to the next level.