Towson at Vermont 12/7/19

Vermont 55 Towson 38

Back in the friendly confines of Patrick Gym, Vermont used a smothering defensive effort to get back into the win column. The Cats’ defense in this one was very impressive. They were all over the court, hustling and making everything difficult for Towson. In the second half Vermont held Towson without a hoop for 11 minutes. The Cats challenged everything at the rim and took control of the game with their physicality. That type of defensive effort will continue to win them games while their offense comes around. Everyone that stepped on the court for Vermont gave everything they had and won all of the 50/50 balls. That type of mental focus in exactly what this team needed to bring to the court to begin this homestand. It was no coincidence that Ben Shungu’s return sparked a strong defensive effort. He is an absolute warrior. He finished with 5 points, 7 rebounds, and a whole lot of heart. So physical and relentless. It was very clear tonight how much the Cats have missed his presence on the court. He is an elite defender and his ability to get to the rim really opens things up for the rest of the offense. Stef Smith benefited from having another playmaker on the court. He was electric in this one, leading the team with 23 points on 7/11 from the field including 5/8 from three. Despite all of the shooting woes for Vermont, Smith is actually shooting the highest three point percentage of his career at 42%. Anthony Lamb is really struggling offensively but never quits and still manages to push the Cats to victory. Despite another 4-19 shooting night Lamb finished with 15 points and 9 rebounds. He also played tough underneath including an electrifying blocked dunk. Daniel Giddens played really well in extended minutes due to Ryan Davis sitting out. He looks more comfortable on the court and is playing far more under control. Although Aaron Deloney continues to struggle to make shots, his tenacity and hustle are impressive. He never gives up on the play and impacted the game with his hustle plays tonight. Now the Cats get some much needed and well deserved rest. They don't play again until December 18th against UNC Greensboro. That will be a very tough game against a strong team with a pre-season conference player of the year in Isaiah Miller. This win was really important so the Cats can begin to build some momentum as they inch closer to conference play.