Hartford at Vermont 1/12/19

Vermont 81 Hartford 62

Vermont avenged last years defeat at the hands of Hartford in dominating fashion. This was the preseason number 1/2 match-up in the America East and it was all Catamounts. Right from the opening tip the Cats were flying all over the court and imposing their will. There was a fire in their eyes as they were relentless in gaining control of the game. The tone was set with the defense as Vermont blocked several shots early in the game including some big ones by Samuel Dingba. The transformation that Dingba has gone through over the last month has been nothing short of extraordinary. Early in the year Dingba struggled to remain on the court for more than a few minutes. Now he is starting and is making a difference at both ends of the floor. It is a testament to his hard work and determination and the coaching staff for working to find ways to give him the best chance for success. His defense and rebounding have been huge over the last few games. Anthony Lamb continues to be the best player on the floor and is putting together an all time great season. Tonight he took a beating and got up each time to dish out his own brand of strength and physicality. Lamb finished with 21 points, 12 rebounds, and 3 blocks. Several of the rebounds in the second half were ripped out of opposing players hands as Lamb took over the paint. Isaiah Moll finally knocked down some shots from long range finishing 3-3 from three on his way to 15 points. He has really been playing better and better in every aspect of the game except knocking down shots. It was great to see him get some confidence and find success at the offensive end. He is going to be a dangerous offensive weapon if he finds his shot. I could write an entire post about how high of a level Robin Duncan is playing at. He is the guy setting the tone defensively as he relentlessly hounds opposing point guards and runs the offense like a four year veteran. A significant part of what he does so well will never show up in a box score. He affects the game in every aspect with an incredible court awareness and an unflappable desire to win. He is the catalyst on both defense and offense. The whole game changes when he is on the court which is incredible for a freshman point guard. A great statement win that really puts Stony Book and Vermont on a collision course. This Vermont team is hungry and focused. They are a joy to watch.