ROSEMONT, Ill. (Interstat) — A surging DePaul team aims to continue its late-season push when it hosts a Villanova squad looking to rebound from a historic loss in a key Big East Conference men’s basketball matchup Wednesday night at Allstate Arena.

The No. 21-ranked Villanova Wildcats (22-7, 12-5 Big East) arrive reeling from an 89-57 rout at Saint John’s on Saturday, their most lopsided defeat in nearly a decade. The Wildcats had won seven of eight prior to that stumble, including an 80-69 victory at then-Creighton on Feb. 14. Forward Duke Brennan has been a consistent force, averaging 11.6 points, 6.6 rebounds and 3.4 assists over his last eight games, highlighted by a 21-point, 12-rebound performance in the win over the Bluejays.

The DePaul Blue Demons (16-13, 9-8) have won four of their last five, including an impressive 62-51 road win at Marquette on Sunday and a 72-71 victory at Creighton on Feb. 25. Guard Brandon Maclin has powered the surge, scoring 18 points against the Golden Eagles and averaging 16.3 points over his last six contests. DePaul’s defense has been pivotal, holding opponents under 58 points in three of its last five wins.

Villanova won the season’s first meeting 71-66 on Dec. 31, but that game was at home. The Wildcats have lost two of their last three road games. DePaul, meanwhile, has won three straight at home.

A victory would bolster Villanova’s seeding for the upcoming NCAA Tournament and keep it in contention for a double-bye in the Big East tournament. DePaul, squarely on the NCAA bubble, likely needs a strong finish, including a quality win over a ranked opponent, to enhance its postseason resume.

Tipoff is scheduled for 8 p.m. EST. Villanova hosts Xavier on Saturday, while DePaul remains home to face Butler.