Philadelphia celebrates Villanova’s title with parade

The city of Philadelphia held its second championship parade in two months on Thursday, this time to celebrate Villanova’s second NCAA men’s basketball title in three seasons.

In February, the Philadelphia Eagles were serenaded for their Super Bowl victory over the New England Patriots.

“We do this so much in Philadelphia now, I thought you guys would be tired of parades,” coach Jay Wright said to the crowd, joking about the Eagles’ parade of two months ago.

Regardless, thousands hit the streets to celebrate Monday’s victory over Michigan in the NCAA championship game. The parade lasted approximately 80 minutes, with Wright, National Player of the Year Jalen Brunson and guard Donte DiVincenzo — the hero of the 79-62 victory with 31 points — among the Wildcats who spoke to the crowd.

Guard Phil Booth attempted to turn his quick words into a serious moment with a “from the bottom of my heart” beginning before suddenly changing with an eruption of “Go Cats! Go Cats!”

One former player riding in a convertible during the parade was Kris Jenkins, who hit the game-winning 3-pointer at the buzzer in the 2016 win over North Carolina.

The national title was the third in Villanova history. The Wildcats also posted a stunning upset of Patrick Ewing-led Georgetown in the 1985 title game.

–Field Level Media