Northeastern at Vermont 12/16/18

Vermont 75 Northeastern 70

One streak broken and another extended.

Vermont won their fifth consecutive game by breaking a three year, three game losing streak against Northeastern. Another tremendous defensive effort led the way as Vermont overcame cold shooting and the loss of their senior leader Ernie Duncan to injury. Ernie went down with what looked like a ankle injury toward the end of the first half and did not return. Vermont dug deep and turned up the defensive pressure. The Cats really guarded hard on the perimeter and made it difficult for Northeastern to get into their offense. Samuel Dingba played a season high 18 minutes and put his fingerprints all over this game. Dingba pulled down two big offensive rebounds to open the second half and got two crucial steals as Vermont was trying to put the game away. He finished with 4 points and 5 rebounds in easily his best game in a Vermont uniform. He actually got the start as Becker continues to tinker with the lineups. Becker really coached his butt off in this game. He made great adjustments on both offense and defense and was finally able to get the balance and all around contributions that have been the hallmark of his Vermont teams. Players are finding their roles and Becker is putting them in position to be effective. Nothing was easy for Vermont offensively in this game. They were struggling to hit from three, missing layups, and missing free throws. They kept working and digging in on defense. In the second half Anthony Lamb was able to get his offense going and Stef Smith really stepped up with Ernie out. Lamb finished with game highs of 17 points and 8 rebounds. He worked hard for every single point. Smith finished with 13 points and 5 rebounds in an all around great effort. He played tough on defense, took care of the ball, and attacked the rim in the second half. He made some beautiful hesitation moves and scored big buckets when Vermont was taking control of the game. Everett Duncan chipped in with 13 points and is starting to find consistency after some early season struggles. Robin Duncan continues to impress with his poise and defensive effort. He consistently hounds opposing ball-handlers and is a steady hand initiating the offense. Ben Shungu also played a season high 26 minutes stepping in for Ernie. Shungu also plays tenacious defense and has made himself a threat on the offensive end of the floor. Big time win against a tough team that has had Vermont's number over the past few years. Now they have a quick turnaround before welcoming St. Bonaventure to Patrick on Tuesday night. That will be another fun one.