Tennessee Secures Elite Eight Spot with Dominant Win Over Kentucky
The Volunteers' stifling defense and Zakai Zeigler's leadership powered a decisive 78-65 victory, setting up a Midwest Region final against Houston or Purdue.
- Tennessee triumphed over Kentucky 78-65 in the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16, avenging two regular-season losses to their SEC rival.
- Zakai Zeigler led the Volunteers with 18 points and 10 assists, showcasing his pivotal role in the team's offense.
- Tennessee's defense held Kentucky to 65 points, 20 below their season average, and limited their three-point shooting to just 6 of 15.
- Coach Rick Barnes remains undefeated in NCAA Tournament games when leading by 10 or more points at halftime, a feat achieved with a 19-point halftime lead.
- The Volunteers advance to the Elite Eight for the second consecutive year and will face Houston or Purdue on March 30 for a chance to reach the Final Four.