KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – The good news for Tennessee was that it was probably the most complete game the Volunteers have played all season.
In a dominating 77-56 win over Vanderbilt, the Vols showed flashes of brilliance on both ends of the floor, with a stifling defense and a potent offense that seemed to click on all cylinders.
“It was a great team effort,” said Tennessee head coach Rick Barnes. “We played with a lot of energy and passion, and I thought our defense was outstanding. We were able to disrupt Vanderbilt’s offense and create some turnovers, which was big for us.”
The Vols’ defense was indeed the story of the game, holding Vanderbilt to just 31.7% shooting from the field and forcing 16 turnovers. Tennessee also outrebounded the Commodores 43-31, with senior forward Olivier Nkamhoua pulling down a game-high 11 boards.
On the other end of the floor, the Vols’ offense was clicking, with five players scoring in double figures. Senior guard Santiago Vescovi led the way with 18 points, including 4 three-pointers, while junior forward Julian Phillips added 16 points and 7 rebounds.
“I thought we moved the ball really well and got some great looks,” said Barnes. “We were able to get some easy baskets in transition, which was big for us. And our bench was outstanding, giving us a big boost when we needed it.”
The win was Tennessee’s 18th of the season, and it marked the Vols’ fifth straight victory over Vanderbilt. It was also a crucial win for Tennessee’s NCAA Tournament hopes, as the Vols look to solidify their resume with just a few weeks left in the regular season.
“We know we’ve got a tough stretch ahead of us, but we’re feeling good about ourselves right now,” said Vescovi. “We’re playing with a lot of confidence, and we’re just taking it one game at a time. We know we’ve got to keep getting better if we want to make a run in the tournament.”
The Vols will look to keep their momentum going on Saturday, when they host Kentucky at Thompson-Boling Arena. It will be a big test for Tennessee, as the Wildcats are one of the top teams in the SEC.
“We know it’s going to be a tough game, but we’re looking forward to it,” said Barnes. “We’re going to have to be at our best if we want to come out on top.”
_Tennessee’s Remaining Schedule:_
– Feb. 24: vs. Kentucky
– Feb. 28: at Mississippi State
– March 3: vs. Arkansas
– March 9: at Auburn
_Tennessee’s NCAA Tournament Resume:_
– 18-6 overall record
– 9-3 record in the SEC
– 5-2 record against top-25 teams
– 10-2 record at home
_Vanderbilt’s Remaining Schedule:_
– Feb. 25: at LSU
– Feb. 28: vs. Ole Miss
– March 3: at Texas A&M
– March 9: vs. Georgia
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