The Vermont Catamounts women’s basketball team lost to the Louisville Cardinals 72-52 on March 21 during the first round of the Women’s NCAA Tournament at the KFC Yum! Center.
The game was significant as it marked Vermont’s third appearance in the NCAA Tournament over the past four seasons. The Catamounts started strong, leading after the first quarter, but Louisville’s performance in the third quarter proved decisive.
Vermont opened scoring early with Priede making a layup and free throw, giving them an initial lead. Louisville responded with a run led by Anaya Hardy, but Vermont regained momentum through key plays from Hanson and Priede. The Catamounts held a narrow 17-16 lead after one quarter. In the second quarter, Louisville went on a seven-point run before Hanson hit her second three-pointer to keep Vermont close. Despite efforts from Priede and Hanson, Louisville led 32-28 at halftime.
In the third quarter, Lenz scored for Vermont to cut into Louisville’s lead, but a subsequent run by four different Cardinals players extended their advantage. Randolph helped push Louisville ahead by double digits late in the third frame. By the end of that period, Louisville led 55-38.
Hanson finished with a game-high 22 points on 8-for-17 shooting and added five rebounds and two steals. She became only the second player in program history to score at least 20 points in two NCAA Tournament games. Priede contributed 16 points along with two rebounds and two assists, while Weltz scored 11 points in her first career NCAA Tournament appearance. Lenz recorded a game-high 13 rebounds.
Louisville maintained its double-digit lead throughout the fourth quarter and advanced to the tournament’s second round.
