Villanova Women’s Basketball Wins Season Opener Behind Standout Freshmen

Villanova Women’s Basketball began the 2025-26 season with a breezy 70-38 win over Lafayette at the Finneran Pavilion, winning much as they did during their exhibition games with a defense-first approach. The Wildcats made just 28 of 71 shots on the night and 12 of 33 from beyond the arc, but their defense dominated from the opening tipoff, keeping Lafayette off the board as their own offense searched for a rhythm.

Villanova allowed just 14 points in the first half as they held Lafayette to a 5 of 23 clip from the field, forcing nine turnovers in the first period alone.

The Wildcats began on a hot streak and led 22-7 after ten minutes making 9 of 18 shots (4-of-9 from three), but their offense bogged down heading into the half as they tried to pour it on from beyond the arc to limited success.

Preseason Second Team All-Big East pick Jasmine Bascoe made just one basket in the first half but managed to find her shot in the second half, finishing the night with ten points, six rebounds and four assists.

The rest of the Wildcats made similar contributions in a well-rounded team win. Ten of the 12 players who checked in for Villanova made at least one basket, including a team high 13 from true freshman Kennedy Henry, who made four three-pointers. Junior transfer Kelsey Joens (11 points) and freshman forward Elise Bender (12 points) also finished in double figures as the Wildcats showed off their youthful talent.

Villanova Women’s Basketball’s home stand will continue at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 5 when they host Fairfield.