Villanova, PA (Sports Network) - Ryan Arcidiacono erupted for a career-high 32 points as the Villanova Wildcats prevailed for a 98-86 overtime win over the St. John's Red Storm in the Big East Conference opener for both sides at The Pavilion.

Arcidiacono hit 7-of-13 shots from behind the arc and 11-of-13 from the foul line for the Wildcats (10-4, 1-0 Big East). JayVaughn Pinkston also registered a career-high with 28 points while Darrun Hilliard scored 14. James Bell corralled a game-high 11 rebounds.

D'Angelo Harrison had an impressive night in the loss for St. John's (8-5, 0-1), scoring 36 points on 11-of-21 from the floor and six three-pointers made. Amir Garrett and Phil Greene IV each scored 15 points while Jamal Branch dropped 12 before fouling out. Chris Obekpa blocked four shots.

Eight Wildcats registered at least two points in the opening 20 minutes and Villanova led 43-40 at the break. Arcidiacono paced the Wildcats with 17 first half points.

The second half had four ties, including an 83-83 draw after regulation thanks to two clutch free throws by Harrison with five seconds remaining. Villanova had an opportunity to win in the closing seconds, but they were unable to get a shot off thanks to the pressure defense of the Red Storm.

Hilliard scored the first four points for the Wildcats in the extra session before an emphatic dunk by Daniel Ochefu gave them a six-point edge. Villanova outscored St. John's 15-3 in overtime.

Villanova has won its last six games while St. John's has lost consecutive contests for the second time this season.

GAME NOTES:

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