KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – The Tennessee women’s basketball team jumped out to a 21-2 lead and cruised to a 128-59 win over Carson-Newman in an exhibition game at Thompson-Boling Arena.
The Lady Vols start their season officially on Sunday at home against Presbyterian.
Here are three observations from the game:
Defensive dominance: The 19-point lead early (Carson-Newman didn’t score a basketball until 3:25 remained in the first quarter) was predicated by a full-court, ball-hawking defense that created turnovers and quickly turned them into points. The Vols finished with 49 points off of 25 Eagle turnovers with 17 steals, while dominating the boards (72-31).
Sharing the ball: The Lady Vols showed unselfishness in the win, with 27 assists on 52 made baskets. It wasn’t any one player in particular, either: Seven of the 10 players had at least two helpers, led by Evina Westbrook’s eight.
Zaay Green effect: The 6-foot freshman guard was everywhere Monday, finishing with team highs in scoring (28) and tying with Mimi Collins with 10 rebounds. She also had three assists and three steals and was a terror defensively.
For a full story, read Tuesday’s Times Free Press.
Contact Gene Henley atghenley@timesfreepress.com. Follow him on Twitter @genehenley3.