Women’s basketball looked for a third consecutive win against America East Conference opponent, the University of Maryland, Baltimore County in last Saturday’s senior day game.
A ceremony before tip-off honored five players in the class of 2025 alongside their families, including three who helped the Catamounts win the 2022-2023 America East championship to compete in the NCAA tournament.
“It’s a little bittersweet. I hate to see the seniors go, but I’m proud of their accomplishments,” said fan Laurie Allen, who hasn’t missed a women’s game at Patrick Gym this season.
From the first whistle, UMBC tried to tire out UVM guards with a persistent full-court press.
Senior forward Anna Olsen made the first breakthrough for the Cats, hitting back-to-back midrange jumpers from the high post to give Vermont the momentum they would ride all four quarters.
With UVM yet to attempt a three-pointer, UMBC rearranged their defense to a 2-3 zone, hoping to force shots from the perimeter.
The switch-up temporarily caught the Cats off guard, but Olsen and junior center Nikola Priede refused to be stopped at the basket. Vermont finished the first quarter ahead 19-15.
The Cats consistently raced up the court in transition to score easy baskets in the second quarter. Their up-tempo play gave them a 44-25 lead at halftime, outscoring UMBC by 15 points.
“They’re quick, bringing the ball down quick and passing,” said fan Carloyn Thompson.
The Retrievers found no answer to Vermont’s scoring in the paint, dominated by Priede’s career-high 22 points. The Cats maintained a double-digit lead for the entire second half, running away with a 79-59 victory.
With 36 points between the two players, Olsen and Priede are stars to look out for in the conference tournament.
“[Olsen is] a big asset to the team but I think she’s going to leave behind a good legacy,” said Allen.
Vermont’s standout shotmaking — 70% from the field and 50% from three — set the Cats apart from UMBC, who they face once more at home in the America East quarterfinals this Thursday.
