Watching this team on TV this year, I have been hoping for signs of improvement as the year went on. It is clear to me that we are seeing it. A wishful part of me had imagined a total turnaround and competing for the championship but a realistic part felt that likely we would be at the bottom. Coach Boals inherited 3 returning regulars (actually 2 and Dartis) from last year’s losing team and lost the top 2 scorers, yet we are competitive and have a reasonable chance to beat any team on any given night. It’s great that he’s an alum but it’s even better that he looks like he’s going to be a success.

I am thrilled at the progress of this team this year. They had injuries, youth and depth issues early and are overcoming that to have a pretty decent season.

This year's team is playing harder and with more passion than any since OUr
Sweet 16 team.

And something else, totally from a distance so maybe it's different behind closed doors...this group seems to really get along. They appear to be a tight group.

I'm really optimistic for where this thing could go in the very near future. Personally, I like building the team this way, more from freshmen than by recruiting short-term transfers. It's not the quick fix mentality, but I like the feeling of continuity and sustainability once this thing gets rolling.

Agreed with all comments. Knowing what Coach Boals was going to have to work with this year, I just wanted to see growth and progress from November to March. Wins were going to be gravy. More than happy that a chance to finish the season with an overall winning record is on the table. Dartis will be missed but also excited about next year and especially 21-22.

Something else that has caught my eye is that Stony Brook is still doing well after his absence. While Vermont will win their conference, they are still in second with a victory over the Catamounts. Seems like they had trouble with Hartford, though-dropping both games. It's good to see what he built didn't crumble the year after he left. Definitely could win the America East tournament.

The key will be upgrading the recruiting classes from previous staff (seems to be the case so far) and keeping BVP a Bobcat for 2 more years.