UMBC started hot and made clutch shots down the stretch, taking down Vermont. Another big game where the Cats struggled to get going in the first half and dug themselves a hole that was too big to overcome. The Retrievers played a great game and have been playing great basketball since their loss to Vermont, especially on the defensive end. The Vermont offense continues to struggle to capitalize on open looks and they were bullied and beat up on the boards. It is too bad that they were down so big in this game early because the defense really got going in the second half during the comeback. The slow starts feel like Vermont not being quite ready for the other team's tenacity, as opponents are seizing an opportunity to take down a more vulnerable Vermont team than in past years (and exorcise some demons from the dominant run a few years ago). Saturday night's game is an absolute must win as any more losses would put them in danger of slipping out of the top three.
TJ Long was a bright spot, scoring 21 points and pulling down 8 rebounds. Getting a healthy Long down the stretch could help the Cats make a playoff run so seeing him have back to back good games is a big positive. Gus Yalden scored 17 points and pulled down 12 rebounds but struggled to finish through UMBC's physical post defense. Momo Nkugwa gave great energy in the second half and was a big part of the comeback. He finished with 7 points, 3 rebounds, and 2 steals. TJ Hurley struggled mightily, making only one shot. He was very good on the defensive end but couldn't get anything going against the Retriever's ball pressure. Sean Blake struggled mightily on both sides of the ball. He struggled to finish at the rim and looked a step slow on the defensive side of the ball. Ben Johnson also struggled defensively and ended up only playing 16 minutes.
Truly a season on the line moment for Vermont. Gotta come out with a strong first half on Saturday night.
