UMBC at Vermont 2/14/15

Vermont 74 UMBC 51

Vermont felt the love in Patrick Gym on Valentine's day and came away with another dominating win. In the early going, UMBC was knocking down shots and getting whatever they wanted at the offensive end. Becker took a time out when the score was 19-13 and whatever he said energized the Cats and they came out and got back to playing their trademark lockdown defense. From that point on the result was what you would expect in a game where the talent and depth disparity between the two teams is that significant. Ethan O'Day is on an absolute tear. He is in the zone and all aspects of his game are clicking. O'Day is hitting the boards and making quick aggressive decisions with the ball. Over the last 3 games he stayed out of foul trouble (finally) and has shot 26-35 (74%) from the field. His rebounding numbers have also been steadily on the rise as his game is peaking at the right time. Dre Wills changed the game when he attacked the basket relentlessly and finished strong at the rim. Cam Ward continues to improve and impress game after game. He is the best playmaker on the team because he has a rare combination of control and aggressiveness. Over his last three games he has 14 assists and only 1 turnover in 24 minutes per game. In fact, Ward has had multiple turnovers in only 4 games this season.  For a freshman point guard that is quite an accomplishment. Throw in the fact that he is shooting 43% percent from three and you have a very valuable player. His emergence has been key for when Trae Bell-Haynes starts to turn to ball over. Becker can quickly make the switch and calm the offense down.  The Vermont offense looks smooth and efficient right now. During the stretch of the conference schedule where they struggled to hit shots, everyone looked like they were rushing and their body language when they missed was as if each shot was the game winner. The Cats now look confident and are playing far more free and easy. The game at Binghamton makes me wary because the last group always struggled to play well there. I am hoping that this group can change that mojo and take care of business. A win would make senior night a very intriguing game as Vermont will try to get revenge against UNH and clinch at least a second place finish. This Tuesday is one of the few chances for Albany to slip up as they host Stony Brook. If they were to lose that game and Vermont wins their next two, the last game of the season at Albany could be for first place in the conference. There will be a lot of shuffling at the top as the teams march toward the America East championship.