LEE, N.H. (Interstat) — The Vermont Catamounts opened America East Conference play with an 80-61 men’s basketball victory over the New Hampshire Wildcats on Saturday at Lundholm Gym.

Vermont led 39-31 at halftime and maintained control throughout the second half before an announced crowd of 813. The Catamounts improved to 9-7 overall, while New Hampshire fell to 4-10.

Vermont was a pregame favorite and the outcome aligned with statistical projections that heavily favored the visitors. The combined score fell under the betting total. The teams will meet again in Burlington on Feb. 7.