2018 Villanova Basketball Season Recap: Dylan Painter

The popular question is: Why did Jay pick the 6’10” sophomore forward to redshirt? The 4 star recruit by Scout and a 3 star recruit by ESPN and Rivals, Dylan Painter, spent the 2018 season adjusting to the college game, in fact, so he can contribute as another big body weapon on the court next year. The extra time will be especially beneficial if Omari Spellman turns out to be a “one-and-done.”

The Nova Nation would love to see an additional dominating, big body on the renovated court next year. When the ‘Cats play teams with larger front-courts, Coach Jay Wright relies on players like Spellman, Eric Paschall, and Dylan Painter to hold their ground.

There was talk of Painter redshirting last year, too. However, with Spellman forced onto the bench with his own redshirt Villanova was too thin to take that chance. From Painter’s perspective, it may have been disappointing to have to sit out during a Championship run. However, it might end up serving as his best bet in the long term for minutes on the court.

From the start of the season, it was apparent that Painter was not likely to play this year. The redshirt sophomore started getting playing time towards the very end of last season, but didn’t even sniff the court to start this past season. It quickly became apparent that Wright was planning to sit the big man.

Coach Wright made the best decision this season to give Painter time to improve his skills, foot work, and confidence. Wright likely wanted most for Painter to study the game and concepts that are the cornerstones of the “Villanova way”. With this extra year and more minutes, Painter could take a big step forward next season.

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