WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WCAX) – The UVM Women’s Basketball Team is moving on in the WNIT following a thrilling 67-59 win over Purdue Monday night at Mackey Arena. It was Vermont’s first win over a power conference team since 2010 and sends the Cats into the semifinal round of a postseason national tournament for the first time ever.
Vermont got off to a solid start, taking an early two-possession lead, but Purdue rallied to head into the locker room with a 29-23 edge. However, Vermont dominated the second half, with Emma Utterback, Anna Olson, Bella Vito, and Keira Hanson all scoring in double figures.
The Cats led by as many as seven late before the Boilermakers got back within two with about two minutes to play. However, Utterback hit a clutch jumped on the ensuing trip down the floor, and UVM was a perfect 8 for 8 at the free throw line down the stretch to claim the 67-59 win.
UVM moves on to the WNIT “Fab 4″ semifinals. The Cats will host St. Louis Wednesday night at 6 p.m. at Patrick Gym with the winner moving on to face Minnesota or Troy (AL) for the championship this weekend.
