Villanova Upset by Columbia in Season Opener

Columbia overcame Villanova in a surprising 90-80 victory at the Finneran Pavilion, marking a critical setback for third-year Villanova coach Kyle Neptune. Despite a stellar performance by Eric Dixon, who scored 33 points, Villanova struggled defensively and committed multiple turnovers, allowing Columbia to capitalize with 21 points off those mistakes. Columbia, led by Geronimo Rubio De La Rosa with 22 points, achieved their first win over a Big East opponent since the 2012-13 season. Wooga Poplar, a recent standout for Villanova, scored 16 points in the game, but the Wildcats' lack of depth and defensive issues were evident as they failed to maintain their lead in the second half. This loss adds to Neptune's challenges as Villanova continues to struggle in the post-Jay Wright era, with the Wildcats missing the NCAA Tournament in consecutive seasons for the first time since the early 2000s.