Tennessee’s Jaime Nared tries to protect the ball from Auburn’s Brandy Montgomery during an NCAA college basketball game in Knoxville, Tenn., on Sunday, Jan. 10, 2016. Tennessee defeated Auburn 79-52. (Saul Young/Knoxville News Sentinel via AP)KNOXVILLE – The Tennessee women’s basketball team bounced back from adversity by delivering one of its best performances of the season to cap an emotional week that had its coach fighting back tears
Diamond DeShields had 25 points, seven assists and six rebounds Sunday as No. 12 Tennessee regained its shooting touch in a 79-52 blowout of Auburn. The victory came three days after the Lady Volunteers lost at home to Florida.
They did it on a reunion weekend that brought about 50 former Lady Vols and former coach Pat Summitt to Thompson-Boling Arena. Former players Candace Parker, Michelle Marciniak, Glory Johnson and Isabelle Harrison attended practice Saturday and offered the current team words of encouragement.
“It was special, I’ll be honest with you,” Tennessee coach Holly Warlick said as her eyes got watery. “It was special. When you struggle and you’re around people who are positive, they’re incredible. They’re why we do what we do. They’re why I’m here. They’re why I have this opportunity. Coach Summitt was there. I’m sorry I’m emotional.
“I understand it’s a privilege and an honor for me to coach this team. And I think our kids understand it’s a privilege to wear that uniform.”