AUSTIN, Texas — Zakai Zeigler contributed significantly to No. 1 Tennessee’s victory over Texas, scoring 16 points in a closely contested game that ended with a score of 74-70. This matchup marked the Volunteers’ return to action following a substantial loss by 30 points against No. 8 Florida earlier in the week.
In a critical moment with just under three minutes remaining, Jordan Gainey sunk a crucial three-pointer that propelled Tennessee into a 66-60 lead. Zeigler then took over, adding six straight points for the Volunteers, including a stunning reverse layup with just 59 seconds left to play. Aside from Zeigler, both Gainey and Darlinstone Dubar added to the scoreboard with 12 points each, helping Tennessee rebound from their recent defeat. They had previously boasted an undefeated record before the setback against Florida.
The game was a tight contest against Texas, who is a newcomer to the SEC and now holds a record of 11-5 (0-3 SEC). Dubar’s putback dunk tied the game at 56, and shortly after, he hit a three-pointer to secure a 61-60 lead for the Volunteers. For Texas, freshman Tre Johnson had a standout performance, scoring 26 points on 11-of-17 shooting; however, he struggled to contribute in the final 11 minutes, making only one basket during that period.
Noteworthy aspects include Tennessee’s anticipated drop from the top ranking in the upcoming AP polls on Monday. Chaz Lanier, the SEC’s leading scorer averaging nearly 20 points per game, could only manage 10 points for the second game in a row, far below his norm.
On the Texas side, while Johnson returned to form after a couple of disappointing games, his absence in the closing stretch was felt. Arthur Kaluma, who had an impressive 34 points in his last outing against No. 2 Auburn, was limited to just four points in this game.
A pivotal moment came with Dubar’s high-flying dunk and subsequent three-pointer that completely shifted the momentum in favor of the Volunteers. Statistically, Tennessee excelled in rebounding, controlling the boards with a 41-27 advantage, and dominated the points in the paint with a 28-16 scoring edge.
Looking ahead, both teams are set to play on Wednesday, with Tennessee hosting Georgia while Texas faces off against rival No. 17 Oklahoma, which has also joined the SEC this season.
