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Darrun Hillaird II had 12 points in Villanova’s 69-52 win over Xavier for the Big East Championship. Now, he’s looking to make an impression as he and the Wildcats look to make a statement in the NCAA Tournament.
Here’s what you need to know:
1. Hilliard Leads the Team With an Average of 14 PPG This Season
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The 6-6 senior averaged 14.0 points, 3.3 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game this season. His PPG average leads the Wildcats.
2. He Was Named Big East Most Improved Player Last Season
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Last season, Hilliard was a co-winner of the Big East Most Improved Player Award, according to his Wildcats bio. Fellow Wildcat Daniel Ochefu was the other winner.
That was also the year he scored his 1,000th point.
3. Hilliard Hit 4 3s in Under 4 Minutes
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During his senior night, after a slow 1-for-7 start, Hilliard hit four three-pointers in under four minutes against Providence, according to The Morning Call.
Hilliard credited it to chemistry with his teammates.
When you’re locked in like that, you just know. You know your teammates. You play with them every day. You know when they’re going to get you the ball.
He finished the night with a game-high 24 points in Villanova’s 89-61 blowout win.
4. He’s Ranked 31st in NCAA Seniors
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According to Draft Express, the 21-year-old is ranked 31st among NCAA seniors.
5. Hilliard Was Kicked in the Face During a Game
During a December game against Syracuse, Hilliard was kicked in the face by a player “crowd surfing” on another Villanova player. Watch the Vine above.
