Entering the NCAA Tournament was an opportunity for Villanova; a rebirth, a Phoenix rising from the ashes. Unfortunately for 'Nova Nation, the team that entered the NCAAs was the same one that ended the regular season as well as the conference tournament.
After having the lead for most of the game, George Mason got its second lead of the game when Mike Morrison dunked home the ball with 55 seconds to play to give the Patriots a 56-54 lead.
After 3 consecutive free throws by Corey Fisher gave 'Nova a 1-point lead, Luke Hancock hit a 3-pointer with 20 ticks on the clock to give GMU its game winner en route to their 61-57 victory.
Despite having a 10 point lead in the first half and being up by 6 at the break, Villanova went just 7 for 22 from the field and scored only 22 points in the 2nd half.
Jay Wright's squad will say good-bye to seniors Corey Fisher, Corey Stokes, and Antonio Pena as the squad finished the 2010-11 campaign on a 6-game skid and with a 21-12 record.
Villanova was ranked as high as #6 during the season but was unable to notch a 'W' in the post-season.
Fisher led 'Nova with 20 on 7-17 and Stokes added 14, both in their last games in a Villanova uniform.