KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — In an impressive performance, reserve player Jordan Gainey contributed 19 points as No. 6 Tennessee overcame a slow beginning to emerge victorious against No. 23 Georgia, finishing the game 74-56 on Wednesday night.
The Volunteers, now holding a record of 16-1 and 3-1 in the Southeastern Conference, ignited the match with a remarkable 26-4 run at the start of the second half. Zakai Zeigler made significant contributions with 16 points and seven assists, while Jahmai Mashack and Cade Phillips added 12 and 10 points, respectively.
For the Bulldogs (14-3, 2-2), Asa Newell was a standout with 13 points, and Silas Demary followed closely with 12 points. Despite heading to halftime with a one-point lead, Georgia struggled in the second half, missing their first five shots while committing multiple turnovers. This allowed Tennessee to surge ahead, establishing a commanding 51-30 lead.
Tennessee’s shooting was a point of concern as they recorded only 27.3% (9 of 33) in the first half and trailed 26-25 at halftime. The Vols’ backcourt trio of Chaz Lanier (1 of 9), Zakai Zeigler (1 of 7), and Gainey (1 of 5) combined for a disappointing shooting display, connecting on just 3 of 21 attempts (14%).
Key observations from the matchup revealed Georgia’s structured play earlier in the season with significant victories against ranked teams, including No. 23 Mississippi, No. 6 Kentucky, and No. 17 Oklahoma, showcasing their legitimacy in the SEC race. Silas Demary has stepped up as a leader for the Bulldogs, adding depth to their game plan.
On the Tennessee side, the team is coping with the absence of several players, including freshman Bishop Boswell, who is recovering from a shoulder injury. The Volunteers have been relying heavily on contributions from all roster members, with transfer player Darlinstone Dubar being a vital asset off the bench.
A pivotal moment in the game occurred when Tennessee started the second half with three straight defensive stops, quickly scoring the first seven points, which gave them a 32-26 advantage. Jahmai Mashack was instrumental during this stretch, scoring five of the seven points.
In key statistics, Tennessee struggled initially but bounced back; despite shooting just 27.3% in the first half, they hit 9 of their first 13 shots during their 26-4 outburst in the second half.
Looking ahead, both teams are set to play on Saturday. Georgia will take on No. 1 Auburn at home, while Tennessee travels to face in-state rival Vanderbilt.
