How Will Villanova Maximize Duke Brennan’s Strengths? | Meet the Wildcats

This is one in a series of stories introducing the Villanova Wildcats’ 2025-26 roster.

Forward Duke Brennan transferred to Villanova for his final year of college eligibility after stops at Arizona State and Grand Canyon. A 6-foot-10, 250 pound frontcourt presence, Brennan averaged close to a double-double with the ‘Lopes last season, putting up 10.4 points, 9.2 rebounds and 0.4 blocks while playing 26.5 minutes per night.

He also earned a selection to the WAC All-Defensive team for his play down low. While there are certainly holes in his game — Brennan has attempted just three three-point shots to this point in his college career, a big man in every sense of the term, and his block totals are lower than one might hope from a defensive stalwart — the veteran power forward should serve as a dependable starter for the Wildcats this season.

An aspect of the game where Brennan really stars is offensive rebounding, putting up more than three per game last season. He can also help create opportunities for his teammates through setting screens.

Similarly important, Brennan can serve as an experienced anchor for a squad that head coach Kevin Willard put together with youth in mind.

Maximizing Defense

As Philadelphia Sports Now broke down in a film review earlier this offseason, Brennan maintains a low defensive stance but doesn’t always use his height to his advantage. Getting his hands up without jumping limits Brennan’s ability to block shots. Already a senior, it might be tough to develop Brennan’s defense further at this point in his career, but playing for a new coaching staff could help augment his potential. 

Another way the Wildcats can get the best out of Brennan is making sure he doesn’t have to stand on an island. Villanova has the benefit of other big men like Braden Pierce and Tafara Gapare on their roster, and even taller guards like Zion Stanford and Malachi Palmer who they plan to have fulfill unorthodox roles.

Successful team defense will help account for Brennan’s weaknesses as a player while maximizing his strengths. The jump from the WAC to the Big East could prove challenging, but Brennan will also have the benefit of more talent around him.