CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – The Tennessee Volunteers secured their status as the top-ranked team in the nation with a thrilling 66-64 victory over the Illinois Fighting Illini on Saturday evening. The game was determined by a last-second layup from Jordan Gainey, who capped off his game-high 23-point performance with the decisive shot as time expired.
Playing before a raucous sellout crowd at State Farm Center, the Volunteers (10-0) faced their first significant challenge of the season. Illinois (7-3) jumped out to an early lead, scoring the first eight points of the game and threatening to pull off the upset. Tennessee, which had dominated its previous matchups, quickly found itself trailing — the first time this season they faced such adversity.
Chaz Lanier quickly answered the call for Tennessee, getting on the board with a three-pointer to break their scoring drought. He was pivotal throughout the first half, accumulating 17 points before fouling out late in the game. The Volunteers slowly clawed their way back, with Gainey and Lanier combining effectively to keep Tennessee within reach of the Illini.
The first half was marked by intense back-and-forth action, culminating with Tennessee holding a slim 31-30 lead at halftime. Both teams struggled to find their shooting rhythm, with Tennessee relying heavily on free throws, converting 17 of 24 attempts. Illinois mirrored this success, going 17 of 21 from the charity stripe.
Illinois showcased its competitiveness, successfully countering each advance made by the Volunteers throughout the contest. The Illini exhibited resilience, taking the lead several times, but each time Tennessee managed to fight back. The game featured 14 ties and 13 lead changes, illustrating the evenly matched nature of both teams.
After halftime, both teams continued to trade baskets, but foul trouble became a significant issue for Tennessee. Star guard Zakai Zeigler faced foul limitations, which saw him exit the game with four fouls with 18 minutes remaining. Even with this setback, Tennessee managed to rally, regaining the lead midway through the second half.
Darlinstone Dubar emerged as another key player for Tennessee, contributing timely points and pivotal defensive plays when the Volunteers needed them most. His three-pointer pulled the Volunteers within range during moments when Illinois looked as if they might secure the win.
Illinois freshman Kasparas Jakucionis was exceptional throughout the game, finishing with 22 points. He was instrumental, especially when he tied the game at 64 with just seconds remaining by splitting two free throws. But his missed opportunity left the door open for Tennessee to seal the victory.
With just five seconds left, Gainey took the ball and drove the length of the court, evading defenders to sink the game-winning layup. His incredible composure under pressure not only secured the win for his team but also emphasized the Volunteers' unyielding spirit this season.
The win marked Tennessee's first buzzer-beater victory since November 2019 and solidified their undefeated record. Gainey, who entered the game as the Volunteers’ sixth man, shone brightest when it mattered most, showcasing his versatile scoring ability after overcoming early game struggles.
Postgame, head coach Rick Barnes noted, "We were hemorrhaging right there... He had [the] little floater,” acknowledging how key Gainey’s timely shots were during tense moments of the game. It was clear Tennessee's depth played a significant role as multiple players stepped up to contribute, particularly with the absence of their starters due to fouls.
The Volunteers' victory also illustrated their capacity to adapt and overcome adversity, as they rebounded from foul trouble and executed the final, decisive plays expertly. With this latest win, Tennessee looks forward to their upcoming four-game homestand, beginning on Tuesday against Western Carolina.
Despite their defeat, Illinois displayed tremendous growth and grit, defiantly challenging the top-ranked team. Their scrappy performance indicates potential for the remainder of the season, as they prepare for their next matchup against Missouri.
This contest highlighted the unpredictable nature of college basketball, where even dominant teams can find themselves on the ropes against gritty opponents. For the Volunteers, maintaining their focus and depth will be key as they navigate the next challenges of their season.
