Season Wrap

For the second year in a row I am faced with the same question, How to sum up a strange season? 

Much like last season the year feels unfinished. So many what ifs and unanswered questions. After reflecting over the past week I have ultimately been left with appreciation for the basketball that was played and excited for the future when I can set foot in Patrick gym once again. 

Vermont faced challenges right from the start with the cancellation of the non-conference schedule and the departure of Bernie Andre. Ultimately the lack of practice time and cohesiveness that this program has hung their hat on, never had a chance to grow. With the second pause in January the season took on the feel of a preseason that just wouldn't end. This year having a season was the real goal and they were able to get that far. Seeing Ryan Davis emerge as the heart of the team was fun to watch and dials up the excitement for next season. Davis went from great player in the America East territory to mid-major player to watch territory faster than even the most faithful of fans saw coming. Stef Smith had an up and down final season in Catamount country but will always be up there with some of the best players to wear the white, green, and gold. Now Smith has a great and unique opportunity to take his extra year of eligibility and see how far he can take his game as he entered the transfer portal this week. It is a just reward for every player that worked through the hardships of this season and is going to make the landscape of college basketball very exciting next season. One of the best stories from this season was Ben Shungu taking his game to a new level. To go from a walk-on to an all-conference player is a testament to his hard work and dedication. Steady, consistent, and always there to make the right play, Shungu was the glue that held the team together. Maybe he will be back for one more season? One definite point of excitement for next season is Sam Alamutu arriving in Catamount country. He has all the makings of the next great Catamount.

Uncertainty will be the name of the game this offseason as coaching changes and player movement ramp up. Becker's name has and will continue to come up as the coaching carousel turns. With the transfer rules shifting to a one-time transfer without sitting out and the extra year of eligibility, there will be more player movement than in a typical year as well. It is going to be near impossible to predict what the roster will look like next season and it will probably be awhile before it is set in stone. 

The big thing that the coaching staff will need to do this offseason is to develop some outside shooting. Having a regular offseason program should work out the defensive kinks and the depth issues that popped up down the stretch. However the perimeter shooting struggles are going to need to be a point of emphasis over the course of the offseason. Too many time teams were able to sag in the lane and cut off drives to the basket because they were not worried about the Cats getting hot from three. Over the last 10 years or so Vermont had has at least one and often two "all time great" three point shooters on the floor. This has been a incredible luxury and is why the Cats offense has improved so much during that time. 

Also congrats to Hartford for making the tournament for the first time. Second chances are a rare commodity and the Hawks made sure to not let theirs slip away. There is nothing better as a fan than when your team finally wins a title. The Catamounts will be back to reclaim the crown next season. 

Lastly, I want to thank all the readers for making this blog a fun extension of being a fan. I love having the opportunity to share my thoughts and observations. The countdown 'til next season begins.