KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — In an impressive display of skill, Igor Milicic led the No. 11 Tennessee Volunteers to a resounding 103-68 win over Austin Peay on Sunday afternoon, scoring 23 points and securing nine rebounds. Zakai Zeigler contributed significantly to the victory with 19 points and eight assists, showcasing the strength of the Volunteers as they improved their record to 4-0 for the season.

Additional support came from Jordan Gainey, who added 15 points, Cade Phillips with 13, and Felix Okpara, who chipped in 12 points. Jahmai Mashack also made his presence felt, adding 10 points to the scoreboard for Tennessee.

The Governors, now standing at 3-1, were led by Isaac Haney, who scored 22 points, while LJ Thomas supported with 20 points in a valiant effort.

Takeaways from the game highlight Austin Peay’s potential, as they were projected to finish second in the Atlantic Sun Conference. The addition of Thomas, a transfer from NC State, has strengthened the team’s lineup. Furthermore, one-armed player Hansel Emmanuel has become an inspiring figure for the squad, providing motivation.

Tennessee’s strategy included a trapping defense that proved effective against Montana in the previous week, and they continued to apply this tactic against the Governors. The effectiveness of this approach could become a reliable asset moving forward for the Volunteers.

A pivotal moment in the game occurred when Tennessee established an early 21-2 lead in the first half, setting the tone for the remainder of the match. Milicic, Phillips, and Okpara collectively scored 12 of those initial points, showcasing their offensive prowess.

Tennessee dominated in several key statistical areas, outscoring Austin Peay 64-22 in points situated in the paint and securing 43 rebounds compared to the Governors’ 25.

Looking ahead, Austin Peay is set to face Morehead State on Wednesday, while Tennessee will take on Virginia in the semifinals of the Continental Tire Baha Mar Championship in Nassau, Bahamas, scheduled for Thursday.