Vermont put together another strong performance in their second exhibition, dominating Stonehill from start to finish. After an offensive explosion guided the Cats to a win last weekend, today was all about the defense. It was a great showcase for the defensive potential of this team. This Vermont group is made up of guys who really get after it on every play. It really showed up on the boards where Vermont absolutely manhandled the Skyhawks. Vermont finished over +20 on the boards and six Cats pulled down 4 or more boards. Vermont is always a good rebounding team, and they have often done it in maybe a more nontraditional way, using position and limiting opportunities. This group has that foundation AND a bunch of junkyard dogs. Rebounding could be a tremendous strength this year. Vermont was physical, getting in passing lanes, and challenging every shot at the rim. Offensively, there was some great movement and the attacks came from all over the court. As roles, comfort, and chemistry develop, the offense has a strong chance to be significantly more efficient than the last few seasons. There were lots of turnovers today, but the quick ball movement is looking like a major plus for this group. Lots of guys with good court vision, instincts, and passing ability.
Gus Yalden led the way with 23 points on 10/16 shooting from the field. He was patient and got to his spots very efficiently. Yalden chipped in 4 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 blocks to round out his afternoon. Teams are going to try and put him in every action to attack him on defense, but he has done a nice job challenging shots through the first two games. Darrel Yepdo finished with 14 points and 4 rebounds. He has great acceleration to the rim and can ignite a possession with his driving ability. Momo Nkugwa picked up where he left off last season, finishing with 12 points and 5 rebounds in his season debut. He shot 5/6 from the field and was flying all over the court. John Broom once again displayed his two-way prowess, finishing with 8 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists, and 4 steals. He is relentless and always around the ball. What a disruptive force. He also does a great job moving the ball on offense. Gets the ball out quickly in the open court and is always looking to pass. Will Davies finished with a stat stuffing line of his own: 8 points, 5 rebounds, 7 assists, and 2 blocks. Both blocks were when he was switched onto a big where he held his own and then some. His command of the ball on offense is really impressive. Khalil Badru struggled offensively but pulled down 9 rebounds. Between Momo, Broom, and Badru, Vermont has three guys who can outjump just about anyone. They create havoc on the glass. Daniil Glazkov continues to look like an unsung but versatile player. He walled up on defense, deflected passes, and knocked down a three on offense. Another guy that does the little things well. Noah Barnett struggled from the line, but his energy and boxing out creates opportunities for the highflyers to get to the boards.
Another strong exhibition with one more to go. I will be writing my season preview this week and can't wait for the season opener.
