CASTLETON, VT (January 22, 2025) – Sophomore forward Sabanna Berrios (Providence, R.I.) delivered a career-best performance with 24 points and 13 rebounds, securing her sixth double-double of the season, as UMass Boston (6-11, 3-5 Little East Conference) battled Vermont State University Castleton (6-11, 2-6 LEC) in a hard-fought 70-83 contest.

Sophomore sharpshooter Vanessa Bucha (Aschmutet, Mass.) also achieved a career high, scoring 21 points, including three three-pointers, in her first collegiate start. Junior guard Tatiannah Fevry (Dracut, Mass.) added 12 points and two steals as the Beacons showcased their offensive depth.

Game Highlights

• First Quarter: The Beacons started strong with Berrios' opening basket and three quick steals from junior captain Sibayla Jensen (Portland, Ore.) and Fevry. A late layup by Bucha tied the quarter at 13-13. Fevry opened the game with a team-high six points (3-4 shooting) in the first quarter for the Beacs.
• Second Quarter: Bucha shined with two three-pointers, keeping the Beacons competitive. Fevry's late layup gave UMass Boston a two-point lead, but Castleton closed the half ahead 32-30. Bucha and Fevry each had 10 to lead UMass Boston offensively through the first half.
• Third Quarter: Berrios dominated with 12 points, hitting five field goals and two free throws. Despite her efforts, the Spartans capitalized on eight extra free-throw attempts to outscore UMass Boston 30-22, creating a 10-point gap.
• Fourth Quarter: Bucha's three-pointer at 6:48 cut the deficit to single digits, but a decisive 11-4 run by Castleton extended their lead. Berrios capped the Beacons' scoring with a late putback, bringing the final score to 70-83.

By the Numbers

•  Berrios' 24 points are the highest for a Beacon since Jensen's 26-point game in November against Saint Elizabeth. This marks her fifth double-double in the last six games, and her second consecutive.
• Bucha Scored 21 points in 32 minutes during her first collegiate start, continuing her rise as a key contributor.
• UMass Boston recorded 11 steals, led by Jensen with three and Fevry and first-year Tajeiha Madison (Brockton, Mass.) with two each.
• The Beacons dominated second-chance points 13-9, fueled by 12 offensive rebounds.

Despite the result, UMass Boston continues to showcase individual growth and team resilience as they push through the Little East Conference season.

Who's Next:

• The Beacons continue their stretch of road games on Saturday, January 25, at 3:00 p.m. against the Eastern Connecticut State Warriors for another LEC weekend showcase from Willimantic, CT.