Vital will always be one of my favorites. He came in my sophomore year and everyone thought he wouldn't do too much as he was the lowest rated recruit out of the 2016 class that seemed to be poised for greatness, being a top 10 class in the nation that year.
Not only did he outplay everyone in that class, but he made the 3-star label laughable by becoming a defensive pest who always tried his hardest with smart plays and incredible effort. I don't recall a single game over his four years where I was like "Vital hurt us that game". Really wish he had some post season success as he only was able to play in 3 total conference tourney wins, and 0 NCAA/NIT tourney games. He may be the greatest Husky with those qualifiers.
Also, off the court, he always seemed like a great guy. Of course I don't know for 100% certainty, but never heard a single bad thing about him. My friend was his RA and said he was always a great guy. Also got the privilege to play pickup with CV one time (and had to guard Kwint on the other end) and he was great guy to play with. Didn't try to show off and acted normal, which is sometimes the best way to be.
Wish him the best in his future. Do I see him getting drafted? Realistically, no. But do I see him having immense success for 15+ years in leagues across the world? Absolutely. I would not be surprised if down the road an NBA team gets him to be a bench 3-and-D guy, but regardless, he will always be remembered as a bright spot in a dark time for UConn.
theathletic.com
