KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – In an intense game against sixth-ranked Alabama, the University of Tennessee men’s basketball team pulled off a thrilling comeback to win 79-76. Senior guard Jahmai Mashack capped it off with a stunning 35-foot shot as time expired.
With just under 10 minutes left, Tennessee trailed by nine points. They rallied, outscoring Alabama by 13 points in the final stretch. This victory marked the first time the Volunteers had hosted a matchup involving two AP top-six teams on their home court.
Chaz Lanier and Jordan Gainey both led the team with 18 points each. Their efforts helped secure the win in front of an excited crowd of 22,392 at Food City Center, the second-largest attendance for a game at the venue.
This victory also put head coach Rick Barnes in the top 10 for all-time wins among Division I coaches, achieving his 830th career win. Under his leadership, Tennessee has remained unbeaten in home games against top-10 teams, now boasting a record of 9-1 against top-10 opponents at home.
The game started with both teams trading baskets. At one point, the Volunteers led 33-29, but Alabama rallied with a quick 10-0 run. Even after falling behind by seven points at halftime, Tennessee persisted. They began the second half strong, closing the gap with a three-pointer from Igor Miličić Jr.
Alabama established a nine-point lead at 62-53, but Tennessee surged back with a 13-4 run, tying the game at 66. Gainey pushed the Volunteers ahead for the first time in the second half, only for Alabama to regain the lead moments later. With 36 seconds remaining, Alabama led by four, but Tennessee wasn’t done yet. Lanier made a clutch shot before Mashack tied the game with two free throws.
With just seconds on the clock, Mashack secured a jump ball and regained possession for the Volunteers. He then dribbled up the court, shooting a three-pointer just as time ran out, sending the crowd into a frenzy as his shot swished through the net.
Overall, Tennessee shot 42.6% from the field and held Alabama to only three field goals on their last 15 attempts, showcasing strong defense when it mattered most. Lanier started strong, scoring 12 of his 18 points in the first half, while Gainey made impactful plays throughout. Zakai Zeigler added 15 points, with multiple assists and three-pointers that contributed to the team’s success.
The Volunteers are set to continue their season with a road game against Ole Miss. The momentum from this dramatic win could be crucial as they aim for a strong finish in the SEC.
Check out this related article: Thrilling Clash Ends in Controversial Draw: Gervonta Davis Clings to Title Against Lamont Roach Jr.
Source link