Top-tier programs like Villanova basketball frequently organize “buy games” against teams such as Columbia at the beginning of their seasons to gradually ease into matchups with less challenging opponents. However, this tactic backfired for the Wildcats on Wednesday, resulting in a 90-80 loss to the Lions in their season opener at home.
Fans of college basketball reacted passionately on social media in response to the unexpected outcome.
“Villanova loses a buy game to Columbia,” tweeted CBS Sports’ Jon Rothstein. “The definition of brutal.”
“I wouldn’t even classify that as an upset,” stated Barstool Sports’ Max Dolente. “Columbia is simply a stronger basketball team than Villanova, and that’s a clear fact. I’m starting to question if they practice at all.”
“Villanova just lost to Columbia 90-80. [Head coach] Kyle Neptune took over a team that had just reached the Final Four and now has a record of 36-34, with losses against Portland, Columbia, Penn, Drexel, and St. Joe’s among others,” remarked FOX Sports Radio’s Aaron Torres. “I can’t picture Jay Wright witnessing his former program fall apart. What a disgrace 🤦♂️.”
Since Wright’s departure in 2022, the Wildcats have experienced a downturn, failing to qualify for the NCAA Tournament during this time. Under Wright’s leadership, the team clinched two national championships.
“I want to add – and I’ve said this numerous times – this should put an end to any debate about ‘Is Villanova a blue blood?’ A miraculous championship in ’85 and a brief period of strong performance under Jay Wright,” Torres continued. “Congratulations on having an all-time great coach. No, and they never were, a blue blood.”
Does this loss suggest a decline for the Wildcats, or is it merely a minor setback?
Kyle Neptune has fallen short of Villanova basketball’s expectations
Following Wright’s extended era of accomplishment, which included two additional Final Four appearances beyond the championship years, Neptune has yet to achieve sufficient success to secure a long-term position as head coach. The 39-year-old has led the Wildcats to two NIT appearances but has not yet earned a spot in the NCAA Tournament, and this latest loss to Columbia is unlikely to enhance his standing.
True basketball elite consistently shine across different eras, and Villanova could risk fading back into obscurity if it fails to sustain its prestigious reputation.
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