Villanova Basketball: 3 keys to winning Big East duel with No. 19 Creighton

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Villanova Basketball Jeremiah Robinson-Earl Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Creighton will put Villanova on the line – and the Wildcats need to take advantage of it

Albeit not necessarily as critical to Villanova’s success against Creighton last season – as well as their success as of late – the Wildcats could gain another edge in this battle in the form of free-throws, where Villanova has feasted this season.

There is not a better free-throw shooting team in the Big East than Villanova. At 81.4%, the Wildcats see a whopping 19.1% of their point distribution – in conference play – come from the charity stripe, the second-highest mark in the Big East, just behind Seton Hall. To put that into context: Creighton sees just 14.6% of its offense come from free-throws, which ranks 11th in the Big East.

What is additionally significant, however, is that Creighton sends Big East teams to the charity stripe at least 17 times a game, while committing just over 16 fouls per game. Contrarily, Villanova takes 18.6 free-throws – the second-highest mark in the conference.

The Wildcats will get opportunities, without a doubt. They have taken over 20 free-throws in five games this season, and their last two outings – Georgetown and Marquette – saw Villanova shoot over 90% from the charity stripe, with marks of 94.4% (17-18 vs. Georgetown) and 93.8% (15-16 vs. Marquette).

Even more significantly for Villanova is that the Bluejays are prone to fouling out – particularly in losses. There is not a more prime example than in Creighton’s loss to Georgetown, where both Marcus Zegarowski and Damien Jefferson – both starters – fouled out. Additionally, two other Bluejays recorded three fouls apiece.

And when the Wildcats get to the line, they are in prime condition to take advantage. All five of Villanova’s rank in the top 500 nationally in FT%, with all above 75% – and none other than Collin Gillespie leading the way at 89.5%. Villanova has a genuine opportunity to dominate Creighton at the charity stripe – and they should feast at will if they hope to dismantle the Bluejays.