Vermont got back into the win column thanks to big games from Kam Gibson and Aaron Deloney in the first game of the Baha Mar Hoops Nassau Championship Tournament. The Cats found some space to operate on offense and knocked down shots. The lift in energy from finally seeing some shots go through the net was noticeable. The Cats had much more pep in their step and as a result got more loose balls and were more engaged and energetic. Vermont shot 53 percent from the field and outrebounded Ball State 34-30. It also finally felt like they got some bounces to go their way as Ball State missed 13 free throws. This was a huge win for Vermont's confidence and the first step in getting some positive momentum. Outside of a tough stretch of 6 consecutive turnovers at the end of the first half, Vermont took better care of the ball and you could see flashes of chemistry coming together. When they needed big plays and big shots in this game guys came through, When Ball State tied the game at 41 in the second half and then the Cats made three consecutive three pointers to retake the lead, that was the type of gritty, "rise to the moment" play that Vermont has been searching for.
Kam Gibson took advantage of his second consecutive start and really set the tone for Vermont. Gibson finished with 19 points, his highest total in a Catamount uniform and his most in a game since his freshman season at Western Carolina. Really happy for Kam as he has worked very hard to integrate himself in to the Vermont system and there have been little glimpses of the progress before finally putting it all together today. He knocked down 3/6 from three and had some beautiful drives to the rim. Aaron Deloney, back in his 6th man role, rediscovered his stroke and led the Cats with 20 points. He scrapped and battled for every bucket and had some highlight reel finishes at the rim. Deloney was also very engaged on the defensive end and actually led Vermont with 7 rebounds. Dylan Penn also reached double figures with 14 points and was finally able to showcase his go to righty hook in the lane move. Matt Veretto also added a nice scoring punch off the bench with 9 points and 4 rebounds. His perimeter shooting is going to be a real asset for Vermont this season. Robin Duncan struggled passing the ball but once again hit the boards hard and had two big offensive rebound putbacks. He hasn't been as effective in his new role so far this season but battle hard in today's game.
Vermont stepped up and won a game they had to have and set themselves up with a chance to advance to the championship game with a win against the winner of UNCW/Missouri State. Great way to end the losing streak and give themselves a chance to make noise in this tournament.
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