Holy Nova

Holy Nova is your all-access pass to Villanova basketball. Hosted by Matt Janus and David White, this twice-weekly show dives deep into both the men’s and women’s programs—breaking down games, spotlighting players, and delivering sharp, insider-driven analysis from the heart of Nova Nation. Whether it’s a clutch win at the Pavilion or a rising star on the women’s roster, Holy Nova brings the energy, insight, and passion every Wildcat fan deserves.

  1. VOR 2 TAGEN

    Villanova-Georgetown Preview: Key Matchups, Stats & Predictions for Saturday's Big East Rematch

    In this edition of Energy Exchange on the Big East Energy Network, hosts Matt Janus (Holy Nova podcast) and Rasheen Carbin (Bleeding Blue and Gray podcast) preview the upcoming Saturday rematch between Villanova and Georgetown in Washing DC. Coming off a four-game winning streak, the Hoyas look to redeem themselves after a "humiliating" loss in Philadelphia earlier this month. The analysts break down the strategic shifts, player development, and the coaching philosophies of Kevin Willard and Ed Cooley that will define this rivalry matchup. Plus give their picks. Georgetown’s Redemption Arc The "New" Hoyas: After a disastrous 1–7 start to Big East play, Georgetown has won four straight. Carbon attributes this to the return of Julius Nwosu to pre-surgery form and the emergence of freshman guard Kayvon Mulready. The Malik Mack Factor: Point guard Malik Mack struggled significantly in the first meeting, going 1-for-14 from the field. Since then, he has focused on "table setting" and trusting his teammates more. Defensive Identity: The team has begun to resemble Cooley’s tough Providence squads, utilizing big guards and rim protection. Villanova’s Tactical Edge The Duke Brennan X-Factor: Janus identifies Duke Brennan as the biggest surprise for Villanova, calling him a "double-double machine" who controls the game through relentless movement and offensive rebounding. Second-Half Adjustments: Kevin Willard’s strategy involves intensive halftime film review focused exclusively on defense to eliminate exploits found in the first half. Committee Approach: Villanova lacks a singular "elite" shot-maker but succeeds by playing the "hot hand," rotating focus between Tyler Perkins, Acaden Lewis, Devin Askew, and Bryce Lindsay. Key Matchups and Predictions are unveiled at the end, as well as the hosts identifying their favorite all-time players from the other program. Support the Show & Our Partners Home Field Apparel: Grab your throwback Villanova and Georgetown gear! Check the link below for high-quality, old-school apparel. Vintage Villanova Apparel: Shirts and Sweatshirts | Homefield Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1 Std. 1 Min.
  2. VOR 4 TAGEN

    Villanova Sweeps Seton Hall: What do Malachi Palmer & Tyler Perkins' Performances Mean?

    Villanova took care of business at home, sweeping the season series against Seton Hall and building crucial leeway in the Big East standings. In this edition of Holy Nova, Matt Janus and David White are joined by Bryan Webster of Pirate Vibes for a postmortem on a game that was much more dominant than the final score suggests.While the Wildcats continue to find their "next level" as they peak toward March, Seton Hall is left searching for answers after another stagnant offensive performance. Key Highlights & Game AnalysisThe Decisive Run: The game was effectively sealed in the final four minutes of the first half. How did the Wildcats' go on that decisive run? Malachi Palmer’s Breakout: The Maryland transfer delivered his most complete performance yet, finishing with 15 points and 6 rebounds. Palmer showed elite efficiency, needing only seven shots to reach his total while providing a significant defensive spark. What does it mean moving forward? Dominating the Glass: Villanova, not typically known as an elite rebounding unit, owned the boards. They finished +10 in rebounding and held Seton Hall to a shocking six second-chance points. How did they do it? The Willard Masterpiece: Coach Kevin Willard utilized a brilliant defensive game plan, daring Seton Hall’s Bud Clark to take mid-range jumpers while completely taking away the Pirates' ability to play downhill or facilitate to shooters like Simpkins. Who said Tyler Perkins remind them of Villanova legend Josh Hart? Perkins filled the stat sheet with 18 points and 5 rebounds. His physicality and high basketball IQ were instrumental in keeping the Wildcats in their offensive rhythm. Acaden Lewis: Lewis played a controlled game, finishing with 6 assists and only 2 turnovers. His ability to manage the pace of the game against a turnover-hungry Seton Hall defense drew high praise from the panel. What’s Next for the Pirates?Seton Hall guest Brian Webster admits the Pirates are likely looking at an NIT trajectory unless they can secure a signature win against a team like UConn. For the Pirates to turn it around, they must address their shooting woes (shooting just 2-of-17 from three in this contest) and find a way to maintain defensive intensity for a full 40 minutes. Support the Show & Our PartnersHome Field Apparel: Grab your throwback Villanova and Seton Hall gear! Check the link below for high-quality, old-school soul apparel. https://www.homefieldapparel.com/collections/vintage-villanova-wildcats-apparel-store Engage with us: Like this video to help us reach more Big East fans! Comment below with what impressed you most about Villanova's performance on Wednesday? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1 Std. 7 Min.
  3. 22. JAN.

    Villanova Beats Georgetown: Why are These Two Programs Headed in Opposite Directions?

    Villanova runs away from Georgetown in the second half and the crews from the Holy Nova Podcast and Bleeding Blue and Gray break down the two distinctly different places these programs currently reside. While it was a close game at the half, the second half saw Villanova pull away for a dominant victory, leaving Georgetown fans searching for answers. Inside the Episode: The Hoya Scoring Drought: We discuss Georgetown’s brutal 11-minute stretch without a field goal and the 17 turnovers that doomed their comeback efforts. Coaching Adjustments: How Kevin Willard’s halftime shifts turned a stagnant first half into a three-point barrage, while Ed Cooley struggled to find a rhythm for his squad. The "Points in the Paint" Problem: A deep dive into the "crushing stat" of the night—how Villanova’s GUARDS outscored Georgetown’s BIGS in the paint by a massive margin. Recruiting & The Transfer Portal: Is Georgetown’s academic prestige making it harder to rebuild through the portal? Plus Nova had a 5-star recruit visit the Main Line. Honoring a Legend: A look back at Villanova’s moving tribute to George Raveling and the incredible story of his "I Have a Dream" speech transcript. Father/Son Moments: Matt shares the experience of bringing his Dad and son to the game (it was his son's first) and how special the night was personally. Support Our Sponsors: Home Field Apparel: Grab the best throwback Georgetown and Villanova gear! Whether you want the classic Hoya logo or the vintage Wildcat look, Home Field has the most comfortable and stylish apparel in the Big East. 👉 Check out the Georgetown collection: https://www.homefieldapparel.com/collections/vintage-georgetown-hoyas-apparel-store?page=2 👉 Check out the Villanova collection: https://www.homefieldapparel.com/collections/vintage-villanova-wildcats-apparel-store Subscribe to the Big East Energy Network for more deep dives into Holy Nova, Bleeding Blue and Gray, and everything Big East basketball!#BigEast #VillanovaBasketball #GeorgetownBasketball #CollegeBasketball #EdCooley #KevinWillard #NovaNation #HoyaSaxa #EnergyExchange #AcadenLewis #DukeBrennan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1 Std. 2 Min.
  4. 21. JAN.

    A Conversation with Nova WBB Head Coach Denise Dillon

    This edition of Holy Nova features host Matt Janus sitting down with head coach Denise Dillon to discuss the Wildcats’ impressive 14-3 start, their defensive identity, and the upcoming challenge of facing the top-ranked and undefeated UConn Huskies. 🏀 In This Episode: The Big East Grind: Coach Dillon reflects on the team's mental toughness following a gritty road win at Providence and how those environments prepare them for the "toughness test" in Storrs, CT. Defense Wins Games: Villanova is currently holding opponents to just 59 points per game. Coach Dillon explains why she prioritizes defensive intensity even when shots aren't falling. Roster Deep Dive: Insights into the development of scoring point guard Jasmine Bascoe , the impact of transfer Kelsey Joens , and the incredible comeback story of Brynn McCurry. The "Bubble" Conversation: A transparent look at the NCAA Tournament resume, the importance of Quad 1/Quad 2 wins like the road victory at West Virginia, and how the "NET" affects Big East standings. Wildcat History: A special throwback story from Villanova legend Harry Perretta about his wild battles (and breakfasts) with UConn’s Gino Auriemma. 👕 Support the Show: Looking for the best throwback Villanova gear? Check out our partners at Home Field Apparel! From the 1985 championship era to the "wacky" 90s Wildcat logo, they have it all. 🔗 Shop the Villanova Collection: https://www.homefieldapparel.com/collections/vintage-villanova-wildcats-apparel-store Don’t forget to LIKE this video and SUBSCRIBE to the Big East Energy Network for more Villanova basketball coverage! Also please leave us a comment about Nova's NCAA Tourney chances #Villanova #VillanovaWBB #BigEast #bigeastbasketball #bigeasthoops #novanation #WomensBasketball #DeniseDillon #jasminebascoe #BrynnMcCurry #Kyleewatson #UConn #MarchMadness #NovaNation #BigEastEnergy #HolyNova #holynovapodcast #genoauriemma #SarahStrong #azzifudd #uconnbasketball #uconnwbb #uconnnation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    41 Min.
  5. 02.12.2025

    Villanova Has a Night! Wildcat Men Reach Big 5 Title Game, Women DESTROY Top 25 Opponent!

    What. A. Night. Villanova fans — this one had EVERYTHING. The men’s team battles through an uneven first half, responds with grit, and punches their ticket to the Big Five Championship, while the women’s team goes on the road and dominates a Top-25 opponent in one of the most complete performances of the Denise Dillon era. On today’s episode of Holy Nova, part of the Big East Energy Network, Matt Janus and David White break down both statement wins — what worked, what didn’t, and what it means for Villanova heading into a crucial stretch of December basketball. 🏀 MEN’S TEAM: Villanova vs Temple • A chaotic first half… but an 18-point win tells the real story • Kevin Willard finally praises the defense — was it legit or matchup-only? • Acaden Lewis = Point Guard Clinic → 8 assists, zero turnovers, and game-changing poise • Tyler Perkins catches fire from deep, Villanova responds when Temple punches back • Where does the defense still need fixing? On-ball containment, rotations, and fouling • The Jay Wright effect… is he the real cheat code? 🏀 WOMEN’S TEAM: Villanova SILENCES West Virginia • An 81–59 road beatdown of a ranked team — never trailing for a single second • Jasmine Bascoe’s masterclass: 20 first-half points + elite playmaking • Brynn McCurry’s rise continues — deadly mid-range + toughness • How Villanova answered physicality, protected the ball, and dictated pace • A defining win for NCAA Tournament hopes • Big Five Final vs St. Joe’s coming — The Holy War 📈 BIG EAST NET RANKINGS DROP We react to the wild first release of NET rankings — why the metrics hate the Big East right now, why it’s way too early to panic, and what Villanova must do in upcoming non-conference tests. 🔥 Join the Holy Nova Community Villanova fans — we want to hear from you! • Biggest takeaway from the men’s win? • Is the women’s team officially back as an NCAA contender? • Does the Big Five still matter to you? Drop your thoughts in the comments ⬇️ and help us reach more Nova fans by liking the video — it makes a massive difference! 📺 Subscribe to the Big East Energy Network for more Villanova breakdowns, game previews, and Big East analysis every week. #Villanova #NovaNation #HolyNova #HolyNovaPodcast #BigEast #VillanovaBasketball #NCAAW #NCAAM #CollegeBasketball #JasmineBascoe #AcadenLewis #DeniseDillon #KevinWillard #BrynnMcCurry Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1 Std. 7 Min.
  6. 11.11.2025

    Cult Hero in the Making? Duke Brennan’s 20 Rebound Night Fuels Villanova's Win...How good is he?

    🏀 Villanova Basketball Bounces Back! | Duke Brennan Dominates, Acaden Lewis Responds & Queens Recap | Holy Nova Villanova earned its first win of the Kevin Willard era with a statement performance against Queens! Matt Janus and David White break down everything from the Wildcats’ bounce-back victory — from Duke Brennan’s monster 20-rebound night to Acaden Lewis’ efficient, turnover-free response and Bryce Lindsay’s early-season surge. We also examine Kevin Willard’s postgame comments, the defensive lapses that still need fixing, and how Villanova’s identity is forming through two games. Plus, a quick preview of Sacred Heart and a look at how the Big East stacks up after a slow start to non-conference play. 📊 Topics Covered: • Villanova vs Queens game recap • Duke Brennan’s breakout & double-double dominance • Acaden Lewis’ maturity and bounce-back performance • Bryce Lindsay’s hot start and key role in the backcourt • Defensive concerns and Kevin Willard’s coaching impact • Big East struggles & what it means for Villanova • Preview: Sacred Heart and what’s next for the Wildcats 🎧 Hosted by Matt Janis & David White — part of the Big East Energy Network. Join the conversation on our new Big East Discord discord.gg/r79XsrxxW 📅 New episodes every Tuesday & Thursday. 💬 Comment your thoughts on the game — who’s Villanova’s MVP so far? 👍 Like, Subscribe & turn on Notifications to stay locked into all things Villanova Basketball! 👉 Subscribe to Big East Energy Network for more Villanova Basketball interviews, Big East insights, and college hoops discussion: Big East Energy Network - YouTube 👉 Subscribe and check out more episodes of Holy Nova on the go with Apple Podcasts: Holy Nova - Podcast - Apple Podcasts or on Spotify: Holy Nova | Podcast on Spotify Follow Us on Twitter/X: Holy Nova Podcast (@HolyNovaPodcast) / X #VillanovaBasketball #BigEast #HolyNova #VillanovaWildcats #CollegeBasketball #KevinWillard #DukeBrennan #McKaydenLewis #BryceLindsey #BigEastEnergyNetwork #NCAABasketball Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    59 Min.
  7. 11.11.2025

    Did Villanova Blow It or Prove Something? Full Reaction to the BYU Loss

    Villanova basketball came this close to pulling off a huge upset over No. 8 BYU — but did the Wildcats let one slip away? 🏀 On this episode of Holy Nova, Matt Janus and David White break down Villanova’s season opener from every angle: what went right, what went wrong, and why there’s still plenty of reason for optimism on the Main Line. We analyze standout performances from Bryce Lindsey, Duke Brennan, and Chris Jeffrey, the struggles of Acaden Lewis and Devin Askew, and speculate whether Kevin Willard’s team can fix its three-point shooting before Big East play. Plus, what Villanova’s fight vs. BYU reveals about their ceiling this season — and how the Wildcats stack up against the rest of the Big East. 📅 New episodes every Tuesday & Thursday at 12 PM ET 👉 Subscribe for all things Villanova Basketball & Big East Hoops 👉 Subscribe to Big East Energy Network for more Villanova Basketball interviews, Big East insights, and college hoops discussion: Big East Energy Network - YouTube 👉 Subscribe and check out more episodes of Holy Nova on the go with Apple Podcasts: Holy Nova - Podcast - Apple Podcasts or on Spotify: Holy Nova | Podcast on Spotify Follow Us on Twitter/X: Holy Nova Podcast (@HolyNovaPodcast) / X #Villanova #NovaNation #BYU #CollegeBasketball #BigEast #VillanovaBasketball #VillanovaWildcats #CollegeHoops #BigEastEnergyNetwork #HolyNova Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1 Std. 4 Min.
  8. 11.11.2025

    SURPRISING UPSET Villanova Women’s Basketball Falls to Fairfield--Hear From Head Coach Denise Dillon

    Villanova Women’s Basketball suffered a surprising early-season upset at the Finneran Pavilion, falling to Fairfield, 75-63. On this episode of Holy Nova — part of the Big East Energy Network — Matt Janus and David White break down what went wrong for Denise Dillon’s Wildcats, from the defensive lapses and foul trouble to the overreliance on star guard Jasmine Bascoe. Hear post-game comments from Head Coach Denise Dillon, plus our full analysis on Bascoe’s electric third quarter, Villanova’s offensive depth concerns, and what this loss means for the Wildcats’ NCAA Tournament hopes and the Big East as a whole. We’ll also discuss: 🏀 How Fairfield exposed Villanova’s defensive rotations 🔥 Jasmine Bascoe’s 15-point third quarter takeover 🚨 Why this loss tightens Nova’s margin in non-conference play 🎙 What Denise Dillon needs to fix before the trip to Toronto to face VCU If you’re a Villanova Basketball fan, Big East hoops follower, or just love in-depth college basketball talk — this one’s for you. 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and comment your thoughts on what Villanova needs to adjust before conference play! #Villanova #NovaNation #BigEast #WBB #VillanovaBasketball #DeniseDillon #JasmineBascoe #FairfieldBasketball #CollegeBasketball #NCAAW #HolyNova #BigEastEnergyNetwork 👉 Subscribe to Big East Energy Network for more Villanova Basketball interviews, Big East insights, and college hoops discussion: Big East Energy Network - YouTube 👉 Subscribe and check out more episodes of Holy Nova on the go with Apple Podcasts: Holy Nova - Podcast - Apple Podcasts or on Spotify: Holy Nova | Podcast on Spotify Follow Us on Twitter/X: Holy Nova Podcast (@HolyNovaPodcast) / X Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    49 Min.

Info

Holy Nova is your all-access pass to Villanova basketball. Hosted by Matt Janus and David White, this twice-weekly show dives deep into both the men’s and women’s programs—breaking down games, spotlighting players, and delivering sharp, insider-driven analysis from the heart of Nova Nation. Whether it’s a clutch win at the Pavilion or a rising star on the women’s roster, Holy Nova brings the energy, insight, and passion every Wildcat fan deserves.

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