Lyndonville, VT - The Northern Vermont University-Lyndon women's basketball team opened the 2022-23 campaign with a resounding 87-33 victory over Vermont Technical College in the opening round of the Northern Vermont University Tip-Off Classic on Friday evening. The contest was also the season opener for Vermont Tech.
Lyndon took control of the game from the onset, as they held Vermont Tech without a field goal in the opening quarter and built a 21-4 lead. The Knights were never able to get back in the game, as Lyndon steadily increased their lead throughout. The Hornet defense forced a staggering 52 Knight turnovers in the contest, and limited Vermont Tech to 7/41 shooting from the floor. The Knights also struggled from the free throw line, as they only cashed in on 16 of 41 opportunities. Meanwhile, the Hornets converted 34 of 90 shots, including 9/30 from behind the arc. Lyndon recorded 26 steals but committed 35 fouls.
Freshman Kadienne Whitcomb (West Burke, VT) had a big night in her collegiate debut. She was a very efficient 6/9 from the floor, including 5/8 from distance, to finish with a game high 17 points. Another freshman, Makayla Phoenix (Houston, TX) added 13 points and Riann Fortin (Derby, VT) chipped in 11 points. Saleena Porter (St. Johnsbury, VT) finished with eight points and 11 rebounds. Kerigan Disorda (Benson, VT) dished out six assista and Ariez Pimentel (San Leandro, CA) recorded seven steals.
Ella Buckingham was the only Knight in double figures, finishing with 11 points. Lily Kalakay pulled down a game high 12 rebounds and Samantha Barcomb had three assists.
The Hornets will move on to face Northern Vermont University-Johnson in the Classic championship game on Saturday afternoon at 2:00 pm. Johnson was a 73-57 winner over Fisher College in Friday's other opener. Vermont Tech and Fisher will square off in a 12:00 noon consolation game on Saturday.
