The University of Tennessee men’s basketball team secured a dominant 83-49 victory over Saint Peter’s in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. Led by guard Dalton Knecht’s 23 points, the Volunteers led wire-to-wire in the game. Head coach Rick Barnes achieved his 200th victory at Tennessee, becoming just the 19th coach to reach this milestone at two Division I schools.
Tennessee started the game strong, scoring the first seven points and later going on a 19-2 run to establish a commanding lead. They maintained their lead throughout the game, stretching it to as much as 36 points. Knecht’s scoring performance, combined with Jonas Aidoo’s 15 points and solid defense, propelled the Volunteers to the second-largest margin of victory in NCAA Tournament history for an SEC team.
The Volunteers’ efficient shooting, especially from beyond the arc, along with their dominance on the boards and in defensive rebounds, set them up for success. Junior guard Zakai Zeigler also stood out with a points/assists double-double. Tennessee’s performance showcased their depth and skill in all aspects of the game.
With this win, Tennessee advances to the Round of 32 to face Texas on Saturday. The team’s success in the NCAA Tournament, coupled with milestones reached by Coach Barnes and standout performances from players like Knecht and Aidoo, highlights the strength and potential of the Volunteers this postseason. Fans can follow the team on social media for updates and support as they continue their tournament journey.
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Photo credit utsports.com