As I mentioned in the update yesterday, I wasn't able to see the whole game but thanks to modern technology I was able to see some of it. And I'm glad I did, as it was an impressive performance, as Nova thumped the Pirates 92-70. The Cats shot the lights out, and when they perform like that offensively they are going to be tough to beat. They shot 67% from the field and 57% from three. Despite giving up 11 offensive rebounds, Nova was able to win the overall rebounding battle 26-23, an impressive feat without without Darryl Reynolds and against a very good rebounding team. I honestly thought that if Reynolds was unable to play that this game would be tight and had a chance to go poorly.
Brunson and Jenkins led the way with 22 apiece. Brunson was a perfect 7-7 from the field and added 10 assists and four rebounds. Jenkins had an encouraging performance, shooting 8-10 from the field and 5-6 from three. Hart was excellent with 19 points on 8-16 shooting. And Bridges continued his fine play, with 15 points on 5-8.
From what I was able to see and looking at the box score, it was a complete effort from the Cats with a lot to like. Nova fans have to be thrilled to see Jenkins find his stroke, while Hart continued his POY ways and Brunson builds on an impressive season, with Bridges continuing his steady play. A very good win for the shorthanded Cats, and with the victory Nova can clinch the regular season Big East title on Wednesday night with a win over Butler or with an unlikely Butler loss to DePaul tomorrow.