The Big East responded because that’s what the Big East does,
After a brutal Feast Week, the league showed what it is made of during the Big East vs. Big 12 Battle despite losing the overall challenge in its final two games. There was a sense of desperation from some of the teams in the league to turn around its season and while one win doesn’t erase a handful of bad losses, it improves the metrics and overall standing of the league.
There is still a lot of work to be done for many Big East with a handful of impactful non-league games this weekend, but conference play also begins that will provide new challenges to many teams.
With that being said, things are starting to become much clearer around the Big East Conference.
1. Marquette Golden Eagles (9-1)
Marquette still retains its top spot in the weekly power rankings despite losing its Big 12 Challenge game on the road against an Iowa State team that has proven to be one of the best in the country.
The Golden Eagles dug themselves a big hole before rallying to tie the game midway through the second half only to lose by 11 points. Then, hosting Wisconsin, the Golden Eagles were able to erase a 2-point halftime deficit and win by 14 after dropping 51 points in the second half.
Kam Jones is not only the favorite for Big East Player of the Year as he’s averaging 20.3 points per game but he’s a major contender for the National Player of the Year.
An interesting road game awaits on Saturday night against Dayton, who is looking for its second win against the Big East this season.
2. UConn Huskies (7-3)
The demise of the UConn Huskies might have been premature and exaggerated.
After returning from its dreadful week in Maui, the Huskies have rattled off three straight victories including wins over Baylor and Texas.
Its win over Baylor was star-less, which made things more impressive. Alex Karaban missed the game with a concussion while Baylor superstar freshman VJ Edgecombe was held out due to injury and senior point guard Jeremy Roach entered the concussion protocol during the second half.
Still, a win is a win and things looked much better on the road against Texas with Karaban returning as UConn controlled the game from start to finish. Now, UConn will make its Madison Square Garden debut on Saturday night in its final marquee non-conference game against Gonzaga.