Preview: Villanova Wildcats at Marquette Golden Eagles

MILWAUKEE (Interstat) — A surging Villanova squad looks to extend its winning streak when it visits Marquette in a Big East women’s basketball matchup Sunday at the Bradley Center.

The Wildcats (12-2, 3-0 Big East) have won seven straight, including a 74-64 victory over Creighton on Thursday. Villanova’s efficient offense, averaging 76.2 points during the streak, will be tested by a Marquette team finding its footing in conference play.

The Golden Eagles (9-5, 2-1) are coming off a 67-54 road win at Xavier, powered by a dominant performance from forward Halle Vice. The junior recorded 20 points and 19 rebounds in the victory, showcasing the interior presence that will be central to Marquette’s game plan. Vice is averaging a double-double over her last five games.

Villanova counters with its own standout in guard Kennedy Henry. She led the team with 19 points, six rebounds and three blocks against Creighton, continuing a stretch of all-around play. Over the last five games, Henry has provided scoring, playmaking and defensive versatility.

The matchup hinges on tempo and rebounding. Villanova’s disciplined, perimeter-oriented attack, which also features Jasmine Bascoe and Ryanne Allen, will contend with Marquette’s physicality, led by Vice and Lee Volker (18 points, nine rebounds vs. Xavier). The Golden Eagles will need to control the glass to disrupt Villanova’s rhythm and generate second-chance points.

Marquette’s record includes a 36-point loss to powerhouse Connecticut, but the team has shown resilience, winning four of its last five. Protecting home court is critical as they navigate a packed conference schedule.

For Villanova, this begins a challenging stretch of road games. A win in Milwaukee would solidify their strong start to league play and keep pace atop the Big East standings.

Tip-off is set for Sunday afternoon. Villanova visits Xavier next on Jan. 8, while Marquette hosts Creighton on the same date.