Sports Briefs

After a month-long preseason, Vassar’s men’s and women’s basketball teams are seeing the benefits of their hard work. The Liberty League has recognized their achievements as well, by naming four players for their performances over the last three weeks.

On the women’s side, Ashley Sherman ’10 was named Co-Guard of the Week on Nov. 19, and Carolyn Crampton ’11 was awarded Co-Rookie of the Week on Nov. 26. Sherman scored a career-high 27 points against St. Joseph’s College in the Coaches vs. Cancer Tournment on Nov. 17. Crampton lead the Brewers with 12 points in their loss to SUNY New Paltz on Nov. 20, making four of six shots from the floor.

For the men, Lawrence Avitabile ’08 was recognized as Co-Forward of the Week for the weeks of Nov. 19 and 26 after overwhelming opponents with his .737 shooting percentage and rebounding skills. Brian Butterworth ’09 was honored as Co-Guard of the Week for Nov. 26 after making a career-high of 27 points.

—Elizabeth Pacheco, Senior Editor

Men's basketball starts season strongly with series of wins

While men’s basketball fell just short of Vassar’s Tip-Off Tournament title in a close championship game loss to Emerson College on Nov. 17, the team has not been discouraged, recording wins against all other opponents. Currently posting a 4-1 record, the Brewers have yet to start Liberty League play. It will begin on Jan. 18 and 19 when they face off against Hamilton College and Hobart College.

The team’s success has come on the backs of a variety of players. While Tyson Brazell ’08 and captain Lawrence Avitabile ’08 have returned as consistent shooters and rebounders, and Brian Butterworth ’09 has proved his abilities at the guard position.

Last season the team qualified for the Liberty League Tournament for the first time, but lost in the first round. The team will look to be competitive in league play and again qualify for the tournament.

—E.P.