Vermont clamped down on the defensive end and used timely shotmaking to take down Binghamton on the road. In the first half, Vermont attacked the rim at will and started to pull away. Binghamton got hot from three and were able to close the gap at the half. Both offenses hummed along in the second half and Vermont struggled to find space on the perimeter. The teams traded baskets until Vermont ratcheted up the defensive pressure to seal the game. It was a strange game where Vermont was able to get easy shots at the rim but struggled from distance. They shot an incredible 26-33 (79%!!) on shots inside the arc. Binghamton did a great job limiting the Cats opportunities from distance as Vermont was held well under their average attempts. It was great to see this group score efficiently and get the win on a night when they only made 3 three pointers. Vermont was good on the boards and made timely defensive plays. The Cats have no room for error in their quest for a regular season title and gutting out gritty road wins will be crucial.
Gus Yalden led the way for the Cats with a tremendous all around performance. He controlled the game with his post ups, screening, and passing. Yalden finished with 18 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists. He was under control and did a great job reading the defense and taking what they game him. TJ Hurley finished with 13 points and 5 rebounds. He threw down another slam and I am here for his "dunk era". Sean Blake scored 11 points and played tough defense, finishing with 3 steals. Lucas Mari continued his impactful play with 9 points and 2 steals. He is making a lot of the little plays that contribute to winning. TJ Long came alive down the stretch and hit some big shots. He finished with 8 points and 5 rebounds as he continues to work his way back form injury. Noah Barnett had an odd game where he scored 10 points but went 0-4 from the free throw line, grabbed only 1 rebound, and committed 4 fouls.
Nice win on the road as the Cats get ready to welcome Bryant to Patrick Gym on Saturday.
