Obama congratulates Villanova after 'exciting' NCAA victory

WASHINGTON (AP) President Barack Obama is congratulating the Villanova Wildcats for their victory in what he calls a ''particularly exciting championship game.''

Obama called head coach Jay Wright on Wednesday following his team's victory in the NCAA Tournament championship game Monday. The White House says Obama pointed out that the victory came at the end of ''an impressive year for the team.'' Obama also invited the whole team to the White House for a ceremony honoring their victory.

Villanova defeated North Carolina 77-74 after Kris Jenkins landed a 3-pointer at the buzzer. The game had been tied with only seconds remaining on the clock.

It's the first national title for Villanova since 1985, when the Wildcats bested Georgetown.