Wisconsin Badgers vs Villanova Wildcats Prediction, Odds and Picks for Today, 12/19/25

Villanova enters this matchup at 8-2 and has looked balanced and efficient on both ends of the floor through the early part of the season. The Wildcats are averaging around 80.4 points per game while holding opponents to roughly 68.1, a margin that reflects strong shot selection and disciplined defense. Bryce Lindsay has emerged as a go to scoring option at about 17.2 points per game on efficient shooting, while Acaden Lewis adds secondary scoring and playmaking to keep the offense flowing. Villanova has also done a good job generating extra possessions through offensive rebounding and ball movement, and their recent road win at Pittsburgh highlighted their ability to control tempo and execute in tougher environments.

Wisconsin comes in at 7-3 with an offense that can score in bunches, averaging approximately 85.1 points per game, but their defensive consistency has been shakier. The Badgers have played at a faster pace than in recent seasons, which has boosted scoring but also led to stretches of rushed possessions and defensive breakdowns, as seen in their lopsided loss to Nebraska. While Wisconsin has capable scorers in the backcourt and can shoot the ball well when in rhythm, their defensive lapses make it difficult to trust them to create separation against a structured team like Villanova. In a neutral site setting where Wisconsin’s home court edge is largely neutralized, Villanova’s efficiency, rebounding, and ability to grind out half court possessions should keep this game tight.

Villanova vs Wisconsin Prediction: Villanova +4.5 (-110) available at time of publishing. Playable to +4.0