Vermont finished up their exhibition slate with another solid performance against St. Michael's. It was a back and forth first half where the Cats struggled to find the bottom of the net for an extended period of time. They came out swinging in the second half and built a nice lead before grinding out the end of the game. The shooting really shined through as Vermont finished 11/20 (55%) from three. The Cats definitely answered the questions about their shooting over the exhibition games. The defense had some nice moments but still has some room to grow. It was interesting tonight to see the coaching staff go with a different starting lineup and then in the second half play long stretches with essentially a five guard lineup. Definitely some tinkering and experimenting with matchups. One of the challenges for the coaching staff, and particularly Becker, will be finding a balance between order and chaos. Vermont teams have always played structured, organized, contained basketball. Lots of players in this group create and thrive on chaos. There is more room with this group for getting out and running, improvising, and taking chances. Striking the balance between that and the defensive discipline, best shot mentality will be an interesting storyline to follow.
Momo Nkugwa led the way with 19 points on 7/8 shooting from the field, including 3/4 from three. He also chipped in 3 steals. He looks transformed since last season. Stronger, smoother, more confident. All of the preseason talk about his improved shooting looks like the real deal. He looks ready for a big year. Will Davies continues to impress. He did not start in this game and the offense struggled. As soon as he entered the game, the pace picked up and he took over offensively. Davies finished with 18 points on 7/9 shooting, including 3/4 from three. He finished with 5 assists and just ramps up the energy and excitement when he is on he court. He did get a little wild and sloppy in the second half but has demonstrated an incredible command of the offense over the three exhibition games. Gus Yalden struggled mightily in the first half but bounced back nicely in the second. He had quite a flurry early in the second half, finishing with 15 points. He still has room to grow defensively and is figuring out his fit with the new and more balanced offense. Khalil Badru finished with 8 points and 9 rebounds and played some center in the five guard lineup. He is an elite rebounder and has great potential as a versatile defender. John Broom was right there with him, finishing with 7 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 blocks. Broom just makes plays on both ends of the court. Ultimate glue guy. He and Davies entered the game together in the first half and there was a noticeable difference in Vermont's energy. Darrel Yepdo knocked down a couple threes and his shooting is going to be huge for the Cats. Daniil Glazkov also played some center in the five guard lineups and pulled down 5 rebounds. He continues to flash potential.
Now on to the real thing at Iona on Monday. I will post my season preview this weekend. Can't wait for next week!!
