Thursday’s Arizin: Daily links for Jan. 21

Happy Thursday! The “news”:

Seton Hall-Villanova basketball rivalry now one of best in the NCAA | Asbury Park Press
It’s a game that never seems to disappoint. And while Seton Hall dropped a heartbreaking 76-74 decision to No. 3 Villanova, there were plenty of positives for the Pirates.

Big East basketball: Villanova challenged by Creighton, UConn | Sports Illustrated
SI's midseason check-in on the Big East looks at the conference's biggest surprise, disappointment and 2021 NCAA tournament outlook.

Villanova coach Jay Wright happy to resume competition with victory, but knows Wildcats have much work to do | Philly Inquirer
Wright said he had no expectations going into Tuesday night's 76-74 win over Seton Hall but that will now change, especially in "doing the little things right."

Villanova Picked 2nd in East Division, Howling to Preseason All-Conference Team - Villanova University Athletics
New York, N.Y.- The Villanova volleyball team is predicted to finish second in the BIG EAST East Division in the spring 2021 season. Also redshirt junior middle

'Been Through So Much': Villanova Wildcats Senior Reflects on the Effects of Enduring a Long Layoff - EssentiallySports
The Villanova Wildcats returned to college basketball action after a long layoff, and Jermaine Samuels detailed on his experience.

No. 11 Creighton can't overcome slow start as Jays fall to Providence | Creighton | omaha.com
Creighton spent the entire game battling uphill after a woeful start against Providence, but couldn’t complete the comeback. Friars held on for the big upset on Wednesday night.

Villanova Announces Women's Basketball Schedule Change - Villanova University Athletics
The women's basketball team has rescheduled its previously postponed game against DePaul for Feb. 12.

Former Hershey, current Delaware basketball player Dylan Painter earns conference honor | pennlive.com
The 6-foot-10 forward averaged 17.5 points and 17 rebounds during the Blue Hens two wins against Hofstra last week. He has posted three consecutive double-doubles.

Jermaine Samuels, sidelined by COVID-19, shines vs. Seton Hall in Villanova's return | Inquirer
Samuels scored 20 points in 32 minutes against Seton Hall after practicing just once in the last couple of weeks. "I am truly amazed at Jermaine Samuels," Jay Wright said postgame.

10 college basketball National Player of the Year candidates, ranked | NCAA.com
These are 10 men's basketball mid-season National Player of the Year candidates, ranked by NCAA.com's Andy Katz.