For the first time since 2021, Vermont men’s basketball will not be competing for the America East Conference title. On March 18, 2025, the Catamounts faced the University of Maine, entering the semifinals with considerable momentum after securing ten consecutive conference wins during February, marking the fourth longest win streak across the nation. Though they had not lost for nearly six weeks and managed to secure victory against the University of New Hampshire—even after losing star senior guard Shamir Bogues to injury—Vermont's hopes of reaching their fourth straight championship appearance were dashed.
Fans gathered at Patrick Gym, watching anxiously as the two teams struggled to penetrate each other's defenses right from the starting whistle. Senior forward Ileri Ayo-Faleye sparked some excitement early on with two key blocks. Yet as the game progressed, Maine propelled itself forward, initiating a 7-1 run, prompting Vermont to call for a timeout. Junior guard TJ Hurley briefly resuscitated the Catamounts’ energy by scoring three consecutive free throws, followed by graduate guard Jace Roquemore’s slam dunk, which ignited the crowd and brought Vermont to within three points at 13-10.
Unfortunately for Vermont fans, this brief resurgence was quickly quashed as Maine surged with an 8-0 run, leading to the silencing of the home crowd. While Ayo-Faleye added another three-pointer just as the first half came to its close, Vermont’s offense struggled significantly, shooting only 25.9% from the field overall and just 11.11% from beyond the arc. The score at halftime showed Vermont trailing 27-19.
Some supporters expressed concern over the team’s performance. “It’s nerve-wracking. I’m a little uncomfortable being down. We’re not used to this,” said Sue Messier, season ticket holder from Burlington. Still, other fans retained their confidence, believing their team could rally back. “It’s gonna be a dogfight to the end. It’s going to be tough,” said Milton, Vt. resident Larry Riegert, reflecting the optimism of many.
Yet as the second half unfolded, hopes began to wane. Maine quickly expanded its lead by ten points within five minutes. With just under seven minutes remaining, Vermont lagged behind 45-33, and the crowd, once filled with anticipation, began to empty. Although Ayo-Faleye landed another three-pointer, the downward spiral continued as Vermont struggled to mount any semblance of the late offensive outbursts they had previously relied upon. The discrepancy between Maine’s effectiveness and Vermont’s inability became clear, and the Catamounts succumbed to defeat with the final score resting at 57-42.
Disappointed supporters remained seated for moments longer, quietly processing the loss. “UVM was the pick because they’ve won so many times. It’s not guaranteed, and they had their challenges this year,” reflected Burlington resident Dennis McSorley. The emotional weight of the defeat was evident, particularly for those closely connected to the team. Signe Daly, UVM alumna and mother of student manager Jensen Daly, conveyed the deep sense of loss among families, stating, “[It’s] just sad, always sad to see the last game for the seniors.”
Despite the unsuccessful season ending, Vermont boasted commendable achievements with a 21-12 overall record. Fans are now eager for the future as new recruits prepare to join Catamount Country for the 2025-2026 season.
Meanwhile, the Smith College Pioneers have continued their successful run, proving formidable opponents this season. On March 14, 2025, they defeated Bowdoin College 53-47, eliminating the Polar Bears from the opportunity to secure their first national championship. The Pioneers' victory came largely due to their impressive third quarter performance where they outscored Bowdoin 18-8, pulling away and never losing their edge.
Hannah Martin, the sophomore guard for the Pioneers, stood out as she scored 12 of her team-high 16 points during the pivotal third quarter, enabling Smith to maintain control of the game. Bowdoin, largely reliant on the prowess of New England Small College Athletic Conference Player of the Year, Sydney Jones, encountered difficulties, unable to bridge the gap until late when Jones scored a three-pointer to bring the game to 51-47.
For Bowdoin, this season ended with a notable 29-1 record, another chapter closed against the same rival, Smith, who eliminated them the previous year as well. Completing the quarter, Smith finished off Bowdoin with two final free throws by Martin, solidifying their triumph.
The victory propelled the Pioneers to the Final Four, where they will face Wisconsin-Oshkosh on March 20, 2025. Smith’s ability to withstand the pressure throughout the game, aided by key players like Jane Loo and Virginia Johnson, is being celebrated as the team moves closer to potentially claiming their first national championship.
Smith's success signifies the strength of their team dynamics and proficient play strategy as they prepare to challenge Wisconsin-Oshkosh, who remains formidable themselves, with the eagerly anticipated match-up taking place at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday.
