UConn started strong last Friday, easily dispatching Stony Brook. Tonight, they'll try to keep the momentum going in their last tune-up game before heading to the Maui Invitational next week.
The Huskies did everything they needed to on Friday. Kemba Walker was the team-leading star we all know he can be. The freshmen, especially Jeremy Lamb and Shabazz Napier showed that they have the potential to be serious contributors, especially on the offensive end of the ball. Most importantly, Alex Oriakhi looked like the player UConn needs him to be. He dominated the paint and grabbed an eye-popping 17 rebounds and putting up 11 points. As the season progresses and opponents get bigger, it'll be hard for him to get quite as many boards, but the more active he is the better. If Oriakhi is averaging a double-double come March, UConn should be a lock for the tournament.
Tonight's opponent is Vermont, who returns just one starter from the team that got bounced by Syracuse in last year's NCAA tournament. They edged by Siena to win their opener, and while they have some size on their roster, it doesn't look like anyone over 6'6" had much of an impact against the Saints.
The game tips off at 7 from the XL center. I'll be here, feel free to join in. Go Huskies.