In another exciting and close game Vermont came up short in overtime, falling to Princeton to close out 2025. It was a fitting way to end the non-conference schedule as Vermont was one or two plays away from winning or losing at the end of just about every game so far this season. The game had conference schedule vibes with it being the second match-up of the season between the two teams. Princeton came out red hot to start and through the first 3/4ths on the game, remained in control. The Cats defense then kicked into gear and they fought their way back to send the game into overtime. The Vermont offense stalled out in OT and Princeton emerged victorious. The non-conference was largely successful, with Vermont getting tested regularly and playing in just about every game situation. After a long layoff and being down double digits in the second half, it would have been easy to mail it in and get ready for conference play. Vermont really dug deep and made big plays to force the game into overtime. This team still has areas for improvement, but I would say is about as prepared for conference play as they could hope for.
TJ Long finally had his breakout game after struggling for the last month. Long finished with 30 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 steals in a strong all around performance. He knocked down 6/12 from three and was very tough on the defensive end. Gus Yalden finished with 14 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists before leaving with an injury. Hopefully it is nothing serious (cramps or calf injury) because he is a crucial piece to the offense. It is not a coincidence that the offense struggled without him in OT. TJ Hurley struggled to get going in this one, finishing with 10 points and 5 rebounds. It feels like the offense is due to fire on all cylinders at some point soon. Sean Blake struggle to find driving lanes and finished with 7 points and 4 rebounds. Lucas Mari had his best game since returning from injury, finishing with 6 points and 6 rebounds in 35 minutes. He made a couple crucial errors down the stretch but was much more engaged on both ends of the floor.
Now the real season begins. The Cats open at New Hampshire on Saturday which Cats fans know is always a tough road game no matter what. How Vermont shows in up in that game will go a long way in setting the tone for the conference season. See you all in 2026!!
