Coming off of a 29-5 season and disappointed second round loss in March, students and fans were certainly hoping for big things from the Cats this season. With the regular season coming to a close on a schoolyard beatdown of St. John’s, many people are astonished at how a team that was already good became great. Last year’s squad had some phenomenal pieces; James Bell raining in long 3’s, freshmen Josh Hart providing a spark off the bench, filmmaker Tony Chennault editing clips in the production room. But this year’s Wildcats have taken their game to a completely different level. With all kidding aside, these guys are good. Really good. Like national championship good. So how has Villanova taken that leap? I’ll tell their keys to success in this very Buzzfeed-esque list (I hate me too).

1. 3/30/95

You’re first thought: How could an unseasonably warm night in March 20 years ago effect Villanova’s chances of success? Well, on this (approximate) night, Phil Booth Sr. and Robin Booth hired a babysitter for young Jasmine and went out for a lovely Italian dinner. After sharing what I can only presume to be a decadent seafood appetizer followed by a hearty pasta meal, Phil Sr. got that look in his eye. Robin knew it was on. Things happen. 9 months later we have Phil Jr., and 20 years later we have the ideal back up point guard for your surging Wildcats. I’m not sure if its Booth’s relentless hustle or his silky smooth jumpshot that attracts me to his play. I am sure, though, that I can fit little Phil in my pocket and carry him around with me. He’s so tiny! And he’s so good. Go Phil.

2. Jay Wright’s Suit Guy

Mobsters, morticians, and Jay Wright all have one thing in common. They all know that whether you’re killing in back alleys, laying the dead to rest, or just straight slaying on the court (zing), you have to rock a good suit. And boy can Jay rock a suit. True or false: FoxSports1 has a single camera dedicated to focusing on Jay’s suit for the entirety of the game. I don’t know the answer but I’ll accept my payment via PayPal for the idea, Fox. Question: does Jay have 1 suit guy? Or does he have an army of them, each offering suggestions for the game, risking their tailored necks for Jay’s well groomed necessities? I like to imagine he casts them off into the wilderness if they suggest anything less than greatness. If not the wilderness, at least SouthWest campus. Side note: Wikipedia says Jay Wright’s full name is Jerod Taylor Wright Jr. I agree Jay, Jay is better.

3. Doug McDermott

How’s riding the pine in Chicago, you well-coifed asshole?

Real #3. Whoever Taught Josh Hart How to Shoot 3’s

No one can deny the outright hustle and heart Josh brings to the court every time he plays. He provides the perfect spark off the bench with his speed and athleticism. He can defend multiple positions, and finish on the break. And until 3 months ago, he didn’t know what the fuck to do shooting the ball. Now, his jumpshot hasn’t changed aesthetically, but its dropping. Let’s hope it stays that way.

4. Whoever Taught Daniel Ochefu About Offense

Does anyone else remember when Daniel Ochefu had 10 thumbs on his hands? Guards would toss the ball into stone hands, who, if he remarkably held on, would promptly dribble off his foot or throw it as hard as he could off the backboard. I’m not sure if Daniel was ever told that the ball should go into the hoop. He’s always been great at blocking shots on defense, I imagine he just assumed the ball should never go in. Good move for whoever told him otherwise. And not only did they tell him otherwise, but they showed him post moves! He has moves now that I can only describe as “nifty.” Don’t ask me why.

5. The 2 FratStars Who Got Knocked Out By JVP

I’m sure everyone has heard this story by now, but if you haven’t, here is a condensed version: In 2010 2 FratStars coaxed the Brooklyn out of young JayVaughn, and he planted them both leading to assault charges and general panic from Nova administrators. They stashed him off campus for a year, and brought him back in 2011 as a “freshman.” Now I don’t know the guys names, but let’s call the first one Chad and the second one will also be named Chad. Due to our Chad’s Chadliness deeds, JayVaughn is a part of this fantastic 2014-15 Nova squad that will hopefully be contending for a national title come April.

(My apologies to anyone named Chad. Your parents made a mistake, bro).

(Editor’s Note: In light of recent accusations, it appears that this incident may not be in the past for Pinkston. Please take this portion with a grain of salt, and refer to this article ( http://collegebasketballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/02/27/report-villanovas-jayvaughn-pinkston-accused-of-violating-probation/ ) for more information. I hope for the best for JVP!)