PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – Bragging rights were on the line Wednesday night in North Philadelphia as the Temple Owls and Villanova Wildcats faced off in the latest chapter in their storied rivalry.
With more than two hours before tip off, fans lined up around the Liacouras Center to watch the Owls take on the number one team in the country.
“I mean it’s a Big 5 rivalry, so half the city of Philadelphia is here,” this fan told KYW Newsradio.
The Wildcats came out with the 83-67 win, and their fans came out excited for their team’s future:
“I think we had a statement tonight, definitely a crucial win, a big one, not an easy one by any means.”
“We can’t be criticized by any of these haters saying we’re overrated moving forward toward the tournament.”
“It’s just another win for Villanova University.”
The win is Villanova’s 15th straight in the Big 5 and gives them their 3rd straight Big 5 Championship.
Many Temple fans say it’s a tough loss, but they think their team can bounce back and eventually make the NCAA tournament.
