Watch CBS News

Fans' Spirits Busted As Nova Exits NCAA Tournament Early

By Dan Wing

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - The Villanova Wildcats took a surprising 71-68 loss to North Carolina State Saturday night, bouncing them from this year's NCAA Tournament. Naturally, students at an on-campus watch party were filled with shock and disbelief.

Dozens of students were decked out in Nova gear, packing all levels of the Connelly Center's Bel-Aire Terrace, hoping to cheer the top seed to a win.

Even as the game wore on and 8th Seeded NC State held a lead at half, fans like Matt were hopeful:

"Gonna be a tight one. We're going to have to kill it at the end. Second half's going to be a tough one, but we'll fight it out. We'll win. We'll get the 'W'."

That faith was rewarded as the Wildcats made a major push in the final minute, but never came closer than within one point. Fan Colleen says it was too little too late:

"We were on our knees, praying, doing everything we possibly could, but we just weren't strong enough this time."

But Colleen was looking for a silver lining:

"Thought that we had a better chance, but we'll get them next year. We're still kind of proud to be a part of the community, and we'll welcome back the team when they get back."

Most fans say they're still proud of what the Wildcats have done this season, but, like Matt, admit the loss stings:

"Haven't had a loss since January 12th, 16 game win streak. Just tough to see it end. Just tough to see it end in March when it really matters, and you just can't get it done against NC State."

Villanova has not won an NCAA Tournament Championship since 1985.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.