Villanova Knicks Lean Into Philadelphia Big 5 Rivalry

Rivalries make college basketball tick, and the New York Knicks — home of former Villanova stars Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart and Mikal Bridges — social media team leaned in to the hatred with a recent video, asking players to compliment their college rival.

Despite candidates like nearby Big East foe Seton Hall or Georgetown, who Villanova upset in the 1985 National Championship, each of Brunson, Hart and Bridges vented their hatred on their fellow Philadelphia Big 5 schools… Saint Joseph’s, in particular.

“The Hawk is dead,” Brunson deadpanned, starting off the Villanova segment.

Hart opted for a low blow, referencing former Hawks’ head coach Billy Lange, who departed Saint Joseph’s in September 2025 for the Knicks, where he now serves as an assistant.

“Thanks for Billy Lange,” Hart said with a smirk. The quip stings less than it might have three months ago, as new Hawks’ head coach Steve Donahue helped save their season after an 0-2 start to conference play, winning A-10 Coach of the Year honors in the process.

Bridges, like Brunson, poked fun at Saint Joseph’s iconic rallying cry.

“Saint Joe’s? The Hawk? The Hawk that dies?” Bridges said. “Honestly, I actually have nothing bad to say about you guys. Because honestly, you helped me win every game I played against you… I really do appreciate it.”

Bridges did, indeed, sweep the Hawks during his three years in the lineup, twice finishing in double digits. True to his theme, Bridges concluded the clip with a compliment. I love the hawk,” Bridges said. “Great animal, great bird, great mascot.” Here’s the full clip.