Game Breakdown: #9 Tennessee vs. #8 Vanderbilt
Date: March 6, 2025 | Time: 11:00 AM EST | Tournament: SEC Tournament – 2nd Round
Location: Bridgestone Arena – Nashville, TN
Recent Matchup & Series History
- Last Meeting (Jan. 19, 2025): Vanderbilt 71, Tennessee 70
- Tennessee had won nine straight against Vanderbilt before the January loss.
- This was Vanderbilt’s first win over Tennessee since the 2013-2014 season.
Statistical Comparison
| Category | Tennessee | Vanderbilt |
|---|---|---|
| PPG (Points Per Game) | 95.8 (1st in NCAA) | 89.3 (11th in NCAA) |
| PAPG (Points Allowed Per Game) | 68.7 | 48.7 (12th in NCAA) |
| Field Goal % | 45.3% | 44.8% |
| 3PT % | 31.6% | 35.2% |
| Turnovers Per Game | 14.1 | 12.5 |
| Rebounds Per Game | 42.8 | 39.2 |
Key Factors & Matchup Analysis
Tennessee’s Keys to Victory
- Play with Pace – Tennessee thrives in transition, averaging nearly 96 PPG. Vanderbilt slowed them down last time, so pushing the tempo will be crucial.
- Better Perimeter Defense – In their last meeting, Vanderbilt shot well from deep and controlled possessions. Tennessee needs to close out on shooters.
- Convert in the Paint – Tennessee shot just 38.2% in the last matchup. More efficient scoring inside is a must.
Vanderbilt’s Keys to Victory
- Defensive Discipline – Holding Tennessee to 38.2% FG last time was key. Replicating that effort will give them a chance.
- Win the Turnover Battle – With just 12 turnovers in the last meeting, Vanderbilt controlled the tempo. Limiting giveaways is crucial again.
- Balance & Three-Point Shooting – Vanderbilt spreads the floor well and shoots efficiently. If they stay hot from deep, they can pull off another win.
Players to Watch
Tennessee Lady Vols:
- Talaysia Cooper (Guard) – Scoring leader, key playmaker.
- Zee Spearman (Forward) – Strong rebounder, vital for inside presence.
- Sahara Jones (Forward) – Hustle player, big rebounding factor.
- Jewel Spear (Guard) – Sharpshooter, key offensive weapon.
Vanderbilt Commodores:
- Sia Clarke (Guard) – Primary scorer, shot creator.
- Kirsten Johnson (Center) – Defensive anchor, key shot-blocker.
- Ella Akin (Guard) – Floor general, controls tempo and assists.
- Lexie Dunniway (Guard) – Perimeter shooting threat.
Betting & Predictions
- Spread: TBD (Tennessee likely favored)
- Moneyline Lean: Tennessee ML (Revenge factor after 1-point loss)
- Over/Under: Expected total 145-150 range – Lean Under based on past matchups.
- Predicted Score: Tennessee 75, Vanderbilt 68
Final Thoughts
Tennessee comes in hungry for revenge after their January loss, and with their high-powered offense, they’ll look to push the pace. Vanderbilt, on the other hand, will try to replicate their defensive performance and limit Tennessee’s fast-break chances. Expect a competitive game, but the Volunteers should come out on top in a close battle.
