Vermont at Providence 12/7/21

Providence 68 Vermont 58

Nate Watson and AJ Reeves scorched the nets and led Providence to the victory over Vermont. Watson set the tone early on the inside and Reeves took care of everything from the perimeter for the Friars. Reeves made 6 threes was the only player on Providence to hit a three. Becker talked about Providence being the toughest test in the non-conference schedule prior to the game and the Friars played like it. Vermont was uncaraisticaly sloppy at the start of the game and dug themselves into a 10-0 hole. The Cats were rushing shots and passes and didn't show the poise that had been their trademark thus far this season. Then the defense dug in and kept them in the game well into the second half. Vermont did an excellent job limiting the offensive impact of the rest of the Friars but Reeves hit a couple big threes as the Cats were making a second half run. The 16 turnovers were easily a season high and many of them were unforced. Too many lackadaisical passes and letting Providence dictate the pace of play. The Friars defense was energized and they were attacking every passing lane. Despite the turnovers and some tough offensive stretches, overall Vermont battled hard. They held their own on the boards and were able to make runs each time it seemed like the Friars were going to blow it wide open. The defense continues to impress and I think the experience of the players on this years roster has the defense getting locked in ahead of schedule. 

In what has become a pattern this season Ben Shungu shook off a tough first half and finished with 20 points. It was another uneven effort from Shungu that included some point blank misses, but his ability to power through his difficulties, dig deep, and keep fighting has been impressive. Ryan Davis finished with 18 points for the Cats in what was a return to form. Davis was hyper efficient going 6-8 from the field, 2-2 from three, and 5-6 from the line. He looked like last years Davis and had a great drive and dunk. Isaiah Powell did not have a great shooting night but finished with 9 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 assists. His consistency on the glass has been huge for the Cats. Justin Mazzulla battled hard right until the last whistle and had one of those games where the box score doesn't do him justice. He finished with 7 rebounds and 3 assists but played great defense and had several key hustle plays. Finn Sullivan struggled mightily, particularly in the first few minutes of the game. He seemed too hyped up and was playing too fast. The bench struggled to make an impact as Becker tried to find the most effective lineup. 

A tough fight in a game where Vermont was not a their best. There were times where the Cats could have thrown in the towel but each time they battled back and there were some positives to take away. Up next is another game in the great state of Rhode Island against Brown on Friday night. I will be travelling for a family event and will not be able to watch the game. I might comment on the outcome after catching up on the game but otherwise I will be back in action for the Northeastern game on December 19th.