Xavier Cranks Up Defensive Pressure, Blows Past Marquette 89-70

Eighth-ranked Xavier built a big first-half lead, then coasted to an easy 89-70 Big East Conference win over Marquette Wednesday night.  The Golden Eagles are second in the nation for 3-pointers and had hit 15 in the first meeting between the two teams.  Xavier held Marquette to six-of-23 shooting outside the arc this time.  Markus Howard was the lone offensive threat for the Eagles most of the night, winding up with a game-high 33 points.  Marquette’s record falls to 13-7, including 4-4 in conference play.  The Golden Eagles host number-one Villanova Sunday.