The Villanova Wildcats fell to the Cincinnati Bearcats today, dropping their overall record to 8-10 on the season and 1-5 in Big East Conference play. Despite a career game for junior guard Maalik Wayns, the Wildcats were mired by 16 turnovers and were unable to hang on to a five point halftime lead on the road, losing by a final of 82-78.
Wayns – whose previous career high was 29 against St. Louis earlier this season – scored 39 points on 22 shots, adding 13 rebounds and six assists. Dominic Cheek was second in scoring with 19.
The biggest difference in the game was turnovers. As previously mentioned, the Wildcats coughed it up 16 times, while the Bearcats had only three turnovers. Cincy's defense was able to get their hands on the ball, forcing 10 steals and blocking five shots.
Villanova hosts Seton Hall on January 18.
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