VILLANOVA, Pa. – A pair of Villanova Wildcats are set to return in 2025-26. Forward
Matthew Hodge and guard
Tyler Perkins will remain at Villanova and play for a new staff led by William B. Finneran Endowed Head Coach Kevin Willard.
Hodge was deemed a partial qualifier in October 2024 by the NCAA. The native of Belgium who starred at St. Rose in Belmar, N.J., before coming to Villanova, practiced with the Wildcats in 2024-25 but did not appear in any games. The 6-9 forward averaged 17.0 points and 6.7 rebounds per outing as a senior in 2023-24 while helping lead St. Rose to the New Jersey Class B Non-Public state title.
"Matt Hodge is a young man we recruited when he was in high school and we're really looking forward to having the chance to coach him at Villanova," stated Willard. "Matt brings a great basketball IQ and terrific skills as a shooter and passer. He got stronger last season and saw up close what it takes to compete in the Big East. We're eager to begin working with Matt this summer."
Hodge, the son of former Old Dominion star and NBA player Odell Hodge, retains four seasons of college eligibility.
Perkins appeared in all 36 games for Villanova in 2024-25 after transferring from Penn, where he was a three-time Ivy League Rookie of the Week choice. The native of Lorton, Va., averaged 25.8 minutes, 6.3 points and 4.3 rebounds per outing. His wing jumper with nine seconds on the clock helped lift the 'Cats to a 73-71 Finneran Pavilion over nationally ranked St. John's on Feb. 12. Villanova was 9-1 (.900) when Perkins scored in double figures in 2024-25.
"We are excited that Tyler will remain at Villanova," said Willard. "Tyler has a unique ability to rebound from the guard position and is also an outstanding perimeter defender. He has made big-time shots at the college level, is an improved 3-point shooter, and understands what it takes to play in the Big East. Tyler's consistency at both ends of the court makes him a great fit for our program."
Perkins, who played prep basketball at the Landon School. retains two seasons of college eligibility.
