In Villanova’s runaway win over Michigan to win the national championship, Donte DiVincenzo was the player who stole the show. Named the Most Outstanding Player of the NCAA Tournament, DiVincenzo’s story is remarkable because he doesn’t even start for the Wildcats. Yet, in the title game, nobody scored more than DiVincenzo’s 37 points, and certainly, nobody had more eye-popping highlights.
DiVincenzo finished with 10-of-15 shooting from the field and five three-pointers. When Villanova was struggling to separate themselves from Michigan in the first half, it was DiVincenzo’s doubtless range that lifted the team:
To those who have followed Villanova throughout the tournament, they know that the long-range makes are expected from DiVincenzo. As Villanova’s sixth man, he’s been getting buckets all year long. Even more impressive than his shooting, though, were a pair of monster, highly unexpected blocks from the 6-5 guard:
The sophomore guard, who is alternately known as the “Michael Jordan of Delaware” and “The Big Ragu” — basically, he’s Italian and he has red hair — is expected to remain with Villanova through next season, as a number of more prominent players on the team are expected to declare for the NBA Draft. The idea is, with a season as a starter under his belt, DiVincenzo will be able to make a stronger case for his own prospects.
After this game, however, that may not be necessary.
