The Tennessee Volunteers clinched their spot in the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament by defeating the UCLA Bruins 67-58 in a second-round clash at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky. The matchup on Saturday, March 22, 2025, marked a significant moment for the Vols, who showcased their defensive prowess to get past the seventh-seeded Bruins.
Tennessee's victory reflects their steady consistency on the first weekend of March Madness, as they continue a historic journey in the tournament. With this win, Tennessee improved its season record to 29-7 while ending UCLA's campaign, which now stands at 23-11.
The game started with a stark contrast in energy; Tennessee faced considerable pressure from UCLA's defense, not managing to score their first field goal until almost five minutes into the game. This slow start required the Vols to rely on off-balance shots, leading to an alarming time for the coaching staff. Tennessee Head Coach Rick Barnes knew adjustments were necessary. “Tennessee used a gutsy defensive effort on the way to a second round triumph,” reported USA Today, capturing the essence of their turnaround.
As UCLA's 7-foot-3 center, Aday Mara, wreaked havoc with two impressive blocks while scoring seven points, it initially seemed like a tough assignment for Tennessee’s Felix Okpara and Cade Phillips. The Bruins took the lead with a 6-0 run, but the Vols refocused thanks to a critical adjustment. Coach Barnes implemented a series of hard traps near half-court, disrupting UCLA’s rhythm and causing confusion among their ball handlers. This tactical shift provided a much-needed momentum change.
By the end of the first half, Tennessee was able to regain control, culminating in a 15-5 run and a six-point lead as teams headed into the locker room. “The Vols ended the half on a 15-5 run, sparked mainly by their work ethic on defense,” USA Today noted, reflecting the tenacious spirit that defined the Vols' approach.
The second half saw Tennessee carry forward this momentum. Zakai Zeigler was quick off the mark, converting an early three-point play that energized the team and their supporters. His contributions were essential, finishing the game with 15 points, six assists, and three steals. In a remarkable display of shooting, Chaz Lanier broke Tennessee's all-time single-season three-point record with his precise long-range shooting. Lanier led the scoring effort with 20 points, ensuring his team maintained their grip on the game.
Although UCLA managed to cut the deficit to single digits at times, it proved to be little more than a fleeting moment of hope. The Vols' defensive mindset combined with their offensive execution were too much for the Bruins to handle over the course of the game. By the final whistle, Tennessee had secured their third consecutive appearance in the Sweet 16 for the first time in program history, a testament to their relentless work ethic throughout the season. “The Vols journey in the Big Dance will stay rolling into the Sweet 16,” confirmed USA Today.
Looking ahead, Tennessee is set to face the winner of the matchup between No. 3 seed Kentucky and No. 6 seed Illinois in the next round, with that game scheduled for March 28, 2025, in Indianapolis. As the excitement builds for the next stage of the tournament, fans reflect on the Vols’ tenacity and the impressive progress they've made this year.
