Vermont 68 Maine 57
Vermont beat Maine in a workmanlike performance on the road with Coach Becker watching from the hotel, out with a sickness. Coach Schneider manned the sidelines for his first career win that saw the Cats continue their strong defensive performances. The game went like most of the Vermont/Maine matchups do, a physical, slow paced game that remains close throughout. In the first half the Cats finally came out and made some perimeter shots, taking an early lead. Maine was able to bounce back and take the lead thanks to beating the Cats on the boards. Vermont closed the half on an 11-1 run to regain the lead. Both teams came out cold in the second half as each team felt out the defensive adjustments. Ultimately, Vermont bounced back on the boards and had a response for every Maine run. The Cats shot the ball better and got to the free throw line where they took advantage with an 18-21 effort. The defense continues to shine, forcing Maine into tough shots and challenging everything at the rim. Maine helped the Cats out with an 11-21 performance from the line. Another game where the depth and defensive pressure of Vermont wore down their opponent in the second half.
Shamir Bogues was great in the second half running the Robin Duncan/Dylan Penn post up and initiate the offense role, making big buckets to keep the Black Bears at bay and finishing with 21 points and 7 rebounds. He also led the Cats with 3 assists and zero turnovers, finding the right balance between attacking and playmaking. Ileri Ayo-Faleye came off the bench for the first time this season and responded with a big game. He finished with 14 points and did a nice job of getting out in transition. Nick Fiorillo got the Cats off to a hot start with two early threes and finished with 12 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 blocks. A strong performance in a return to his home state. Jace Roquemore came off the bench for 3 points and 5 rebounds. It was a great team win where seven different players hit a three pointer.
Onto Albany on Thursday in a game where it will test the Cats "one game at a time" mentality. With a big week of Bryant/Lowell (including senior night) at home looming, Vermont will have to be extra focused on the road against an explosive Albany offense.
