HARTFORD, Conn. — Liam McNeeley played a key role in UConn’s comeback, scoring 16 of his total 20 points in the second half as the team rallied to overcome Villanova, finishing the game with a score of 66-59 on Tuesday evening.
UConn found itself in a tough spot, trailing 53-39 with just 11:58 left in the game after Villanova’s Wooga Poplar scored 11 consecutive points.
However, McNeeley’s clutch performance turned the tide. With 1:42 remaining on the clock, he converted two free throws that allowed UConn to take its first lead, 60-58, since the very early moments of the match when the score was 2-0.
Tarris Reed Jr. contributed to the momentum shift by executing a reverse layup after a well-timed drive and dish from McNeeley, extending their lead to 64-59 with just 22.3 seconds remaining. Following a missed layup attempt by Villanova, McNeeley sealed the victory by hitting two more free throws.
Reed Jr. concluded the game with solid numbers, tallying 13 points and nine rebounds for the Huskies (18-8, 10-5 in the Big East Conference). Solomon Ball also made an impact, scoring 13 points while shooting 5 of 13 from the field, including 3 for 9 from beyond the arc.
On the opposing side, Villanova (15-12, 8-8) saw Poplar lead the scoring with 19 points, while Eric Dixon contributed 17 points to the effort. Jordan Longino added 13 points, all of which were scored in the first half, helping the Wildcats into a 34-26 advantage at halftime.
Looking ahead, UConn is set to face off against No. 10 St. John’s this upcoming Sunday at Madison Square Garden, while Villanova will host Marquette on Friday.
