BRYN MAWR, Pa. (Interstat) — Villanova used a strong first half and clutch free-throw shooting to defeat Seton Hall 72-60 in a Big East men’s basketball game Wednesday night at The Pavilion.

The Wildcats built a 40-25 halftime lead behind 18 points from Tyler Perkins. The Pirates, led by Adam Clark’s game-high 18 points, cut the deficit to five in the second half but could not complete the comeback. Villanova sealed the win by making 17 of 22 free throws, while Seton Hall struggled from deep, hitting only 2 of 17 three-point attempts.

Villanova improved to 17-5 overall. Seton Hall fell to 16-7.