Wildcats Deliver on Rebound Challenge from Pope in Win vs. Bucknell

Wildcats Dominate Bucknell on Glass

Villanova women's basketball put on a rebounding clinic against Bucknell, outrebounding the Bison 68-34, including a 32-9 advantage on the offensive glass. The Wildcats' dominance on the boards led to a 20-point advantage in second-chance points.

Maddy Siegrist led the way for Villanova with a game-high 15 rebounds to go along with her 22 points. Lucy Olsen and Christina Dalce also chipped in with 11 and 10 rebounds, respectively.

Bucknell was led by Emma Shaffer's 12 rebounds, but the Bison were unable to overcome Villanova's size and athleticism in the paint.

Villanova's Defense Stifles Bucknell's Offense

In addition to their rebounding advantage, the Wildcats also held Bucknell to just 34.8% shooting from the field. The Bison were 1-of-14 from three-point range and committed 15 turnovers.

Villanova's defense was particularly effective in the second half, holding Bucknell to just 23.8% shooting. The Wildcats forced the Bison into several tough shots and made it difficult for them to get into the paint.

Wildcats Extend Winning Streak

With the win, Villanova improves to 10-3 on the season and extends their winning streak to five games. The Wildcats are now 5-0 at home this season.

Bucknell falls to 6-7 on the season with the loss. The Bison have now lost three of their last four games.

Pope's Rebounding Challenge

Prior to the game, Bucknell coach Trevor Pope challenged his team to improve their rebounding effort. The Bison had been outrebounded in their previous two games, and Pope knew that they needed to be more physical on the boards against Villanova.

However, Villanova's size and athleticism proved to be too much for Bucknell. The Wildcats dominated the rebounding battle from start to finish, and Pope's challenge went unanswered.