No. 12 Villanova Ousts Cinderella Siena in Midwest Region

Scottie Reynolds brought the heat in Tampa for the Wildcats. (AP Images)

For the first time in Tampa, Fla., a favorite won a game. No. 12 Villanova ousted Cinderella 13-seed Siena, 84-72, early Sunday afternoon in what’s been dubbed Upset City.

The victory sets up a battle of Wildcats in the home of the Lions and Tigers. Villanova will face No. 1 seed Kansas in the Midwest Region when Sweet 16 play of the NCAA Tournament begins next week in Detroit.

Against the Saints, Villanova dominated with tenacious defense and consistent shooting as they covered the point spread of 5.5. Guard Scottie Reynolds continued to make a name for himself as he led the way with 25 points. He also had eight boards and five assists to lead Jay Wright’s team to the Sweet 16 for the third time in four years.

Corey Stokes had 20 points for the Wildcats, who joined West Virginia to become the first Big East teams to advance from the opening weekend of March Madness.

Siena’s season ends after it pulled off a major shocker in the first round by beating SEC power and No. 4-seeded Vanderbilt.

Get complete NCAA men's basketball tournament second round results and updated NCAA basketball lines in the Bodog Sportsbook.