In their most complete game of the season, Vermont dominated from start to finish, taking down Siena at home. It really was a complete all around effort form the tip. In the first half the energy was high and the Cats were getting all the 50/50 balls and the hustle plays. Instead of flashy huge runs, it was a methodical effort to build a big lead headed into the locker room. The Cats came out the same way in the second half, stretching it to a 23 point lead. Siena chipped away and made a charge but Vermont never let it get within single digits. The big story over the last few games has been the improvement on the defensive end. The hands are getting more active, the communication a little better, and the energy a little higher. It is great to see the chemistry and buy in start to take shape. The offense has been well balanced and the benefit of having a post game is creating great offensive flow and allowing Vermont to grind out tough buckets.
Gus Yalden was phenomenal in his best game in a Catamount uniform. Particularly in the first half when he scored 19 of his career high 29 points. He finished 10-15 from the floor including 3-5 from distance in only 24 minutes. His efficiency is off the charts and he is such a luxury to have when the Cats need a bucket. Guarding him one on one is a risky proposition for opposing defenses. Speaking of defense, Yalden was much improved on that end in this game as well, getting his hands on the ball and moving more efficiently in rotations. Fun to watch. Sean Blake continued his rapid rise with another dynamic performance. Blake is looking so decisive and confident with his decision making. He finished with 14 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 assists. The rebounding this season has been particularly impressive as he is just pursuing the ball at such a high rate. TJ Hurley chipped in 13 points in a team high 33 minutes. Noah Barnett stayed hot with 9 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 blocks. He is showing improvement on offense and is benefiting form the improved chemistry as teammates are finding him in good spots. TJ Long continues to get the lock-down defensive treatment from opposing teams but he found other ways to contribute with 7 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists and was quite disruptive on the defensive end. Ben Johnson led the bench crew with 5 points and 3 assists in 20 minutes. Lucas Mari had a bit of an uneven showing but finished with 4 points and 3 assists. He flashed his potential once again with some beautiful assists and a big dunk.
This was a huge win over a team that had won 7 in a row and was playing very well to start the season. The Cats have great momentum going into another tough matchup against Iona on Saturday. Can't wait!
