March Madness 2016, Villanova vs Kansas: Full highlights

The No. 2 Villanova Wildcats and No. 1 Kansas Jayhawks had a physical battle in the South Regional Final.

When the NCAA Tournament brackets were first released, the NCAA South Region was seen as one of the toughest regions to date, because of the number of talented teams that had been placed in the conference.

On Saturday night, the South Regional Final between the Villanova Wildcats and Kansas Jayhawks resembled the strength and toughness of the bracket, as the two teams engaged in a tight battle where players gave their bodies up to dive after basketballs and make plays for their team.

This game had a similar feel to the start of the Maryland game for Kansas, as once again, they fell behind early and let another team run wild with momentum. However, things were a little different this time for Kansas, as Villanova maintained that pressure heading into the second half as well.

The Villanova starters all tried their hand from deep and Josh Hart and Kris Jenkins really tried to make the most of the shots they were given. Heading into the half, the Wildcats were up 32-25. Unlike the other games thus far in the tournament, the Wildcats didn’t have the high scoring output they were used to having because of a strong perimeter defense from Kansas.

The Jayhawks would take the lead back to begin the second half off some brilliant defense on the inbound attempt and some timely threes from Frank Mason III. Perry Ellis really struggled to find his shot and get points on the board, as Villanova really sized him up well.

The two teams would trade the lead back and forth and Villanova would make some big shots to give themselves a slight advantage as the clock winded down. As the Jayhawks pulled within two, Mikal Bridges had an incredible putback to put the Wildcats’ lead back at four.

With the lead back down to two, Kansas guard Devonte’ Graham would be called for a trip in a controversial loose ball play that would give the ball to Villanova. Four-year captain Ryan Arcidiacono would hit two huge free throws to put the lead back to four.

However, with 25 seconds left, Mason III would hit a huge three to pull Kansas within one. Arcidiacono would hit two more free throws and Villanova’s lead was back at three. Kansas would once again score inside and the lead was back down to one with 15 seconds to go.

After Jenkins put the lead back to three, Kansas couldn’t get a shot off and would turn the ball over. Villanova would make two more free throws to advance to the Final Four and win the South Regional Final.

Full Highlights

Three Stars

3. Devonte’ Graham, G, Kansas

The Kansas guard led his team in scoring with 17 points and did everything he could to help his team win in a losing effort.

2. Kris Jenkins, F, Villanova

Kris Jenkins tied for the team lead in scoring, but more importantly, he was 6-6 on free throws and came up clutch when his team needed him.

1. Ryan Arcidiacono, G, Villanova

The captain on his birthday finally completed his four-year goal of reaching the Final Four. He made big shots and was the life of the Wildcats’ offense.

Odds

Kansas came into the game as a two-point favorite. By losing, they did not cover the spread.

What’s Next?

The Villanova Wildcats will face the Oklahoma Sooners in the Final Four next Saturday.

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