Williamstown, Mass. – The Vermont State University Castleton men's basketball team dropped a tough contest to Williams College in the opening round of the Williams Purple and Gold Classic on Saturday, 85-36.

VTSU Castleton worked hard to keep it close in the first half, with a trio of layups by Will Radcliff helping to keep them within five. Eventually, seeing them cut it to three off a trey by Crisrael Lithgow at 14:02 (12-9). Despite its best efforts, Castleton trailed 38-20 at the half.

The second half saw the hosts quick to build a 32-point lead (15:47). Fouls by the Ephs helped Leonard Brice post an and-one while Zach Thompson sank a pair of free throws to bring the difference under 30.

Williams took control in the final 10 minutes, growing its advantage to 49 (85-36) in the closing seconds.

It was Radcliff that led the way for the Spartans, as he put up 15 points, four rebounds and two assists. Thompson was next closest offensively with six points.

Strongest off the boards was Brice with his five rebounds.

VTSU Castleton looks to bounce back on the second day of the Purple and Gold Classic, set to faceoff with Thomas College at 1 p.m. on Sunday.