RANDOLPH, Vt. – The Southern Maine Community College (SMCC) men's basketball team saw its season come to an end on Friday night, falling 61-40 to Vermont State University Randolph in the YSCC Quarterfinals. The Seawolves are now eliminated from playoff contention, while Vermont advances to the YSCC Final Four.

SUMMARY

SMCC struggled offensively throughout the game, shooting 26.4% from the field and 30.0% from three-point range. Charlie Houghton (Dixfield, Maine) led the team with 16 points and nine rebounds, while Thomas Martinotti(Hardwinton, Connecticut) added 13 points on 5-11 shooting.

Turnovers and inside scoring were the difference in this contest, as Vermont capitalized on 19 turnovers, turning them into 18 points. Meanwhile, the Seawolves were outscored 32-4 in the paint, struggling to find consistent offense against Vermont's interior defense.

HOW IT HAPPENED

Vermont set the tone early, opening the game with a 10-2 run. Houghton and Martinotti hit key three-pointers to keep the Seawolves within striking distance, but Vermont's Jaylon Calvin (26 points, 9 rebounds) took control offensively, helping the home team take a 30-20 lead into halftime.

The Seawolves struggled to connect on shots in the second half. Vermont's defense tightened up forcing 10 turnovers in the second half. Tyler Allen (15 points, 7 rebounds) and Calvin continued to lead the way for Vermont, extending the lead to 21 points with six minutes remaining, ultimately leading to a Vermont victory.

LOOKING AHEAD

With the season coming to a close, SMCC finishes the year with a 9-17 overall record and 7-9 mark in YSCC play. The Seawolves will look to build on their experience to make another run at the championship next season.

Vermont advances to the YSCC Final Four (Hosted by SMCC), where they will continue their postseason run.