Orono, Maine. – The University of Maine basketball team defeated Vermont in Orono for the first time since 2013 as they came away with the victory, 76-70.
 
Both sides were locked in a close contest through the opening half as neither side staked out more than a six-point advantage until 6:40 remaining in the first half as the Black Bears pushed their lead out to seven points.
 
Maine continued to build their lead as they got it up to 14 points heading into halftime at 38-24.
 
TJ Biel led the way with 11 points, three assists and a pair of blocks.
 
Caleb Crawford had a career-high 10 points in just 12 minutes off the bench in the first half.
 
Maine forced seven turnovers and held Vermont to just 34.8% from the field and 18% from three-point range.
 
The Black Bears pushed their lead up to 20 points early in the second half before Vermont slowly chipped into it.
 
Maine was able to hang on down the stretch as they came away with the victory following a stretch of three dunks over the last minute and 15 seconds and some key free throws by a final score of 76-70.
 
Notes:

• Caleb Crawford shattered his career-high as he had 21 points on 85% shooting and six-for-six from the free throw line.
• Mekhi Gray and TJ Biel both had 17 points.
• The Black Bears had 20 assists on 26 made baskets.
• Maine forced 14 turnovers on the night.

The Black Bears (6-18) head to Bryant for their next game on Saturday, Feb. 7. Tip-off is scheduled for 4 PM.
 
-UMaine-
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