CASTLETON, Vt. – The Vermont State University Castleton men's basketball team overcame a determined St. John Fisher squad to secure a 69-61 victory on Saturday afternoon at Glenbrook Gymnasium. 

The Basics

Final Score: VTSU Castleton 69, St. John Fisher 61

Location: Glenbrook Gym - Castleton, Vt.

Records: VTSU Castleton 1-3 | St. John Fisher 2-3

How It Happened

Castleton jumped out to an early lead, fueled by aggressive drives to the basket from Will Radcliff and Joe Buxton. They maintained control through strong plays in the paint, going 14-for-24 from the field and converted 11 St. John Fisher turnovers into points, building a 40-30 lead, with the Cardinals keeping pace through Max Michalski's inside scoring. 

The second half saw St. John Fisher rally to cut the deficit to just one point at 47-46, after consecutive baskets from Michalski, keeping the Cardinals within striking distance. Castleton responded with buckets from Radcliff and Buxton, who combined for multiple fast-break points and key points in the paint. Radcliff added crucial assists on baskets by Zach Thompson and Ben Seiler, while Buxton's defense generated five steals that sparked transition scoring. Late baskets from Buxton and Seiler helped the Spartans pull away, finishing with a 69-61 victory. 

By the Numbers

• Radcliff led the Spartans with 16 points, eight rebounds, and five assists. 
• Buxton added 15 points, six rebounds, one block, and five steals. 
• As a team, Castleton shot 45.5% from the field, 35.3% from the arc, and 65% from the free throw line, and had eight second chance points. 
• The Cardinals went 41.1% from the field, 25% from the arc, and 61.5% from the free throw line, adding 12 second chance points. 

What's Next
The Spartans will be on the road for theri next game on Wednesday, November 19 at Russell Sage College for a 7 p.m. tip off.