Tennessee Advances to Sweet 16, Defeats Virginia 79-72
PHILADELPHIA, PA — The sixth-seeded University of Tennessee men’s basketball team secured its fourth consecutive trip to the Sweet 16, defeating third-seeded Virginia 79-72 in the second round of the NCAA Tournament on Sunday. The Volunteers will face second-seeded Iowa State in Chicago next week.
Game Recap
Tennessee closed the game on a 9-1 run, all from the free-throw line, despite not making a field goal in the final 3:37 of the game. Ja’Kobi Gillespie contributed key free throws, extending Tennessee’s lead to four at 75-71.
Key Moments
- Controversial Call: Tennessee benefited from a controversial out-of-bounds call with 27.6 seconds remaining, maintaining possession.
- Boswell Fouled: Bishop Boswell was fouled and made both free throws with 46.8 seconds left, increasing Tennessee’s lead to 73-71.
- De Ridder’s Late Push: Thijs De Ridder tied the game at 66-66 with free throws for Virginia, but Tennessee responded.
- Gillespie’s Clutch Shot: Ja’Kobi Gillespie hit a 3-pointer as the shot clock expired, giving Tennessee a 62-55 lead.
Second Half Action
Virginia began the second half with a strong offensive push, cutting into Tennessee’s lead with several 3-pointers. Johann Grunloh’s dunk energized the Cavaliers, bringing the deficit down to two points. However, Tennessee maintained its composure and responded with key baskets.
First Half Summary
Tennessee established a lead in the first half, fueled by its size, physicality, and length. The Volunteers led 36-31 at halftime, outscoring Virginia 18-8 in the paint. Bishop Boswell led Tennessee with nine points in the first half, while Jacari White paced Virginia with 10.
Player Performances
- Ja’Kobi Gillespie (Tennessee): Continued his strong tournament performance with key points and free throws.
- Thijs De Ridder (Virginia): Led Virginia with a strong scoring performance, including multiple 3-pointers.
- Bishop Boswell (Tennessee): Contributed significantly to Tennessee’s first-half lead.
- Jacari White (Virginia): Led Virginia in scoring in the first half.
Looking Ahead
Tennessee will now face Iowa State in the Sweet 16 in Chicago. The Volunteers will aim to continue their impressive tournament run and reach the Elite Eight.