Vermont at UMass Lowell 12/22/20

Vermont 62 UMass Lowell 53

Vermont used a 20-1 run to take control of the game and bounced back to pick up their first win of the season. The game was equally as disjointed as last night's game as both teams struggled to find an offensive rhythm. Vermont was able to limit their mistakes and were much more engaged on the defensive end of the floor. This is a big win as the Cats are going to be in survival mode until they can get Ryan Davis or Tomas Murphy back. The grit and determination that are trademarks of Vermont teams were on full display in this one. Ben Shungu was an absolute warrior today. He played 37 minutes of tough, physical perimeter defense and led the Cats with 12 points (a perfect 8-8 effort from the line) and 6 rebounds. He really set the tone with his defense and the rest of the team responded. Justin Mazzulla followed Shungu's lead with tough physical defense of his own. Through two games it looks like Mazzulla is going to be a special player for the Cats. He is a ball hawk on defense and tenacious when attacking the rim. Mazzulla also played 37 minutes and added 9 points and 5 rebounds. Bailey Patella still isn't 100% but he battled hard and also chipped in 9 points and 5 rebounds. Stef Smith once again looked completely out of sync but was able to finish with 10 points. Nick Fiorillo impressed again in limited minutes. Fiorillo chipped in 7 points including knocking down one of Vermont's two threes. The fact that he is able to already be a positive contributor is nothing short of amazing for a walk on playing in his second ever college game. He is playing with confidence and taking advantage of his chance to contribute. Vermont took better care of the ball with only 11 turnovers while forcing 21 for Lowell. The three point shooting was once again atrocious as the Cats finished 2-17. This group doesn't have the shooters that Vermont has had over the post several seasons and it is going to take hard work to make themselves a real threat from the perimeter. Coming out of this weekend at 1-1 is big and now that the season is real hopefully the players can get after it this week in practice before hosting NJIT at Patrick on Sunday. The Cats showed some heart in getting a win when they were dealing with injuries and not playing their best basketball. Now it is time to lock in and execute.