Villanova Knocked Out of NCAA Tournament by Utah State After Four-Year Absence
Utah State outscored Villanova 42-26 in the paint with Mason Falslev scoring 22 points and MJ Collins adding 20 to secure the upset win.
- On March 20, 2026, Utah State Aggies defeated Villanova Wildcats 86-76 in the first round at Viejas Arena at San Diego State University, opening their fourth straight NCAA Tournament appearance.
- Attacking the paint, the Aggies set the tone early with a 22-13 lead and held an 18-2 edge on paint points while Jerrod Calhoun adopted Ralph Willard's matchup zone.
- Mason Falslev led the Aggies with 22 points, seven rebounds and four assists, while MJ Collins converted a three-point play at 2:53 and made late defensive plays including a steal-to-score sequence.
- On Friday, Utah State, the 9-seed, upset 8-seed Villanova, ending their season in a one-and-done exit and moving on to face Arizona on Sunday.
- Despite Villanova's shooting, Bryce Lindsay led the Wildcats with six 3s for 25 points, while Utah State hit 28 of 37 free throws and had two others in double figures.
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