AP Women’s Basketball Preseason Top 25: Analysis & Rankings

The university of Vermont ‌Catamounts women’s basketball team is poised for another exciting season,building on‌ a strong 2023-24 campaign. They ‍finished with a 28-7 record, reaching​ the second round of the NCAA Tournament ​before falling ‌to UCLA. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect from the Catamounts as they head into 2024-25.

Key Players Returning &​ New Additions

Vermont boasts a roster blending experienced talent with promising⁤ newcomers. Several key players will be instrumental in their success.

* Maggie Doogan ⁢(17.0 PPG) is a proven scorer and will likely lead the offense.
* Rachel Ullstrom (15.3⁢ PPG) provides another important scoring threat.
* ​ Tierra Simon (8.8 PPG at St. ‍Louis) brings ​valuable experience after transferring from St. Louis.
* Ally Sweeney (7.9 PPG) offers consistent contributions.
* Skylah Travis (5.6 ​PPG at Louisiana) adds depth‌ and versatility following her transfer.⁤

Beyond these ​core players, keep an eye on these additions:

* Tonie‍ Morgan (13.7 ⁤PPG at Georgia Tech) is a dynamic guard who can immediately impact the team.
* teonni Key (11.4 PPG) provides size and skill in the frontcourt.
* Clara Strack (9.7 PPG) offers a‍ scoring punch off the bench.
*⁢ Amelia hassett (8.6 PPG)⁢ is a reliable‍ role player.
* Asia Boone (10.3 PPG at Liberty) adds another dimension to the‌ team’s attack.

Season Outlook ⁢& Key Dates

The Catamounts kick ⁢off their season⁤ on ‌November 4th against⁣ Mount St. Mary’s. I’ve found that starting with a strong non-conference schedule is crucial for building momentum. Their⁣ early-season schedule features a‍ significant test on November 7th with‍ a road game against Texas​ on⁢ the SEC Network+.

Projected Starting Lineup

Here’s a⁣ likely look at the starting five:

1. Maggie ‌Doogan
2. Tierra Simon
3. Rachel Ullstrom
4. Ally Sweeney
5. Skylah Travis

What to Watch For

Vermont’s success will hinge on ⁤several‌ factors. First,​ integrating the transfers – Morgan, Key, Boone,‌ Simon, and Travis – will be key. Second, maintaining their strong team chemistry, which was‍ evident last season, is vital.their ability⁢ to defend and rebound consistently will ​be crucial⁢ in​ a competitive America East⁣ Conference.

Here’s what works best‍ for teams aiming for postseason success: a⁣ commitment to fundamentals and a willingness to adapt. I anticipate the Catamounts will be a force to be reckoned with throughout the season, and you should‌ expect an exciting brand of basketball from Burlington.