Vermont 75 Delaware 71
Vermont opened the Basketball Hall of Fame Tip-off Tournament with a strong performance against Delaware. The game opened with Vermont locking up the Blue Hens, who didn't make their first shot from the field until 6 minutes into the game. Then both offenses got going for an exciting half of basketball, with each team trading mini runs. In the second half, the Cats defense shut down Delaware as they maintained a solid lead for much of the half. Then the Blue Hens started to press and made things interesting, charging back to within one possession. Vermont executed and made their free throws down the stretch to pull out the victory. The Cats were able to get good dribble penetration and it really opened up their offense. It was great to see more flow and chemistry on that side of the ball. The defense continues to force opposing teams into difficult shots. The press is giving the Cats fits this season but they made plays when they needed to in this one. The rotation really shrunk with only one starter playing less than 30 minutes.
Nick Fiorillo poured in a career high 20 points, including shooting 4-6 from three. He also chipped in 8 rebounds and 3 assists. It was great to see some shots go through for Fiorillo after struggling to start the year. His ability to stretch the floor can really open things up for everyone else. It was also great to see the backdoor passes out of the high post return. That was such a weapon last year with Aaron Deloney in particular and it has taken some time for others to find that chemistry. Shamir Bogues finished with 18 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 steals. He had that relentless energy back and was a disruptive force on both ends of the floor. A healthy Bogues changes everything for Vermont. TJ Hurley had a tough shooting game but finished with 14 points and 4 assists. He did a great job attacking when he had a mismatch. Ileri Ayo-Faleye battled foul trouble and finished with 8 points and 5 rebounds. He knocked down another 2 threes and they always seem to come at crucial moments. Sam Alamutu made big plays around the rim and finished with 6 rebounds. Sean Blake continues to provide short bursts of offense but teams are really targeting him at the defensive end. TJ Long is in a bit of a rut offensively but is working very hard on the defensive side of the ball.
A good win to start the weekend in a fun atmosphere at Mohegan Sun. Can't wait for tomorrow's game!
