NBA: Built to Dominate

November 24th, 1995

Verizon Center – Washington, D.C.

The energy inside the Verizon Center was electric as fans prepared to witness the most anticipated matchup of the Big East season so far: the defending champions, the Villanova Wildcats, versus the undefeated Georgetown Exclamations.

This wasn't just a regular-season game, it was a grudge match. Last season, Villanova had ended Georgetown's championship hopes in the Big East semifinals, and Georgetown was out for revenge.

The stakes were clear: Villanova wanted to defend its crown, and Georgetown wanted to reclaim its place at the top.

The Spotlight and the Stakes

The game drew such attention that it was picked up by T and NT, with two professional commentators providing live coverage.

"The Wildcats are the defending champions for a reason," one commentator explained. "With Corey Kidles, Alvin Williams, and Tim Thomas, they're loaded with NBA-level talent."

"But don't count out Georgetown," the other countered. "Allen Iverson is the most dynamic player in college basketball, and Alex Mo is quickly proving he's a force to be reckoned with."

Villanova's Confidence

Before the game, Villanova's star guard Kerry Kittles was brimming with confidence.

"Georgetown wasn't a challenge last season, and nothing's changed," he said during an interview. "They added some big guy from China? Please. We've got Tim Thomas in the paint. Let's see how that 'Celestial Giant' handles him."

Meanwhile, Georgetown's coach John Thompson was rallying his team.

"Last year, they sent us home. This year, we change the script. Show me how badly you want this championship."

His gaze lingered on Iverson and Alex, the team's twin pillars. Georgetown's fate rested on their shoulders.

A Legend in Attendance

The buzz in the arena reached a fever pitch when a familiar face entered the stands. Dikembe Mutombo, one of Georgetown's greatest legends, had come to watch the game.

The crowd erupted as Mutombo greeted his former coach, John Thompson.

"I hear we've got another dominant big man this year," Mutombo said, nodding toward Alex Mo, who was warming up on the court.

"Yes, Dikembe," Thompson replied, a knowing smile on his face. "Mo has the kind of physical talent I've rarely seen. If he continues to grow, his ceiling could be higher than even yours—or Ewing's."

Mutombo raised an eyebrow. "Higher than Ewing's? One of the four greatest centers of all time?"

"His athleticism is unreal," Thompson explained. "If he stays healthy and develops his skills, who knows? He could be something we've never seen before."

Mutombo glanced at Alex again, his curiosity piqued. "I'll be watching closely."

Game Time: A Statement Dunk

The opening tip was only the beginning of what would become a battle of wills.

Georgetown wasted no time asserting its presence. On their first possession, Iverson caught the ball after the tip-off and launched one of his signature quarterback-style long passes down the court.

Alex Mo was already sprinting ahead, outrunning everyone, including Villanova's highly-touted Tim Thomas.

Catching the ball in stride just inside the three-point line, Alex took two massive steps, soared through the air, and slammed the ball home with a thunderous dunk.

BOOM!

The rim shook violently as the Verizon Center exploded in cheers.

"Georgetown opens with a statement!" the commentator shouted. "Iverson's long pass and Alex Mo's unstoppable finish—what a way to start this game!"

Villanova's Response

Villanova wasn't going down without a fight. Kerry Kittles and Alvin Williams answered with sharp shooting and crisp ball movement, while Tim Thomas used his size and skill to challenge Alex in the paint.

But Alex wasn't backing down. Every time Thomas tried to back him down, Alex's strength and wingspan forced him into awkward shots.

On the other end of the court, Alex dominated the boards, snagging rebound after rebound and igniting fast breaks with precise outlet passes.

Mutombo's Verdict

From the stands, Mutombo watched in awe.

"Coach, you weren't kidding," he said to Thompson during a timeout. "This kid is special. I've never seen someone his size move like that."

Thompson nodded. "He's still raw, but if he keeps working, there's no telling how good he can be."

A Battle of Wills

The game remained close throughout the first half, with both teams trading blows. Iverson dazzled with his quickness and scoring, while Alex controlled the paint and threw down several highlight-reel dunks.

Villanova's players were visibly frustrated. Their defensive schemes couldn't stop Iverson's speed or Alex's power.

By halftime, Georgetown led 41–37.

Second Half: Breaking the Champions

In the second half, Georgetown turned up the intensity. Iverson attacked relentlessly, slicing through Villanova's defense with ease, while Alex continued to dominate the boards and protect the rim.

Villanova's Tim Thomas tried to answer, but Alex blocked two of his shots in quick succession, sending a clear message: the paint belonged to Georgetown.

The crowd roared as Georgetown pulled away, their defense stifling Villanova's offense.

Victory and Vindication

When the final buzzer sounded, Georgetown had secured an 82–68 victory, handing Villanova a decisive loss.

Alex finished the game with 24 points, 18 rebounds, and 6 blocks, while Iverson added 30 points and 8 assists.

Postgame Praise

As the players celebrated, Mutombo approached Alex on the court.

"You've got something special, young man," he said, shaking Alex's hand. "Keep working hard, and the sky's the limit."

Alex grinned. "Thanks, but I'm not stopping at the sky."

Mutombo laughed. "I like your confidence."