Exhibition: Vermont vs St. Michael's

Vermont 65 St Michael's 47

Vermont closed out exhibition season with a dominant defensive effort. This game was the perfect tune up for the season opener next week against Merrimack. The Purple Knights played a tough, physical zone from start to finish. Merrimack is one of the few division one teams that employs zone as their main defensive scheme. Getting an early game against a rare style of play and an early rock fight against a very motivated and physical team is a great way to be challenged. Initially in the first half, the Cats were a little back on their heels. Too many turnovers and missed shots. The offense settled in in the second half and Vermont was able to pull away. The most encouraging takeaway was that the Cats defense was there from the tip. Guys were really walling up drivers and forced St. Mike's into tough shots all night. TJ Hurley and TJ Long were particularly tough, locking guys up on drives and staying strong without fouling. Aaron Deloney also played tough physical defense. Ileri Ayo-Faleye had a strong all around game, leading the Cats in scoring. Jace Rocquemore, Brenton Mills, and Sam Alamutu also came off the bench with a strong defensive mindset. Seth Joba got extended minutes and showed flashes of his potential. As I said after the last exhibition, Long is the guy who can get a bucket when the team needs it. When the Cats finally started to pull away in the second half, it was due to Long getting a tough layup and a three on back to back possessions. He looks like a perfect fit in the Vermont system. This Cats team really needs a healthy Shamir Bogues as Vermont really misses his speed on both ends of the floor. Bogues is already proving his value as a leader by picking up the balls after shootaround and pulling guys aside and talking to them during the game. Those little things go a long way. That type of camaraderie is apparent with this group and it bodes well for how this team will grow and progress throughout the season. Can't wait for the season opener and will post my Vermont season preview this weekend!