Chaz Lanier led shorthanded No. 8 Tennessee to a decisive 64-44 victory over No. 5 Florida on Saturday, scoring 19 points in a standout performance.
The Volunteers (18-4, 5-4 SEC) faced a tough challenge, competing without key starters Zakai Zeigler (knee) and Igor Milicic Jr. (illness).
Jordan Gainey contributed significantly with 16 points, while Felix Okpara added 10 points and eight rebounds, showcasing the depth of the Tennessee roster.
For the Gators (18-3, 5-3), Walter Clayton Jr. scored 10 points in the first half but suffered a left ankle injury that hampered his performance. The Gators struggled in the second half, shooting just 6 of 26.
Tennessee gained momentum at the end of the first half, highlighted by back-to-back blocks from Cade Phillips and Darlinstone Dubar, followed by Lanier’s three-pointer. Clayton’s injury with 1:07 remaining in the half marked a turning point.
Takeaways
For Florida, Thomas Haugh, a 6-foot-9 power forward, has emerged as one of the premier sixth men in college basketball, making significant contributions off the bench. Meanwhile, center Micah Handlogten, who suffered a severe ankle injury during last year’s SEC Tournament, has opted to sit out the season despite considering a comeback.
On the Tennessee side, the health of senior point guard Zeigler is paramount for the Volunteers’ aspirations of a strong season finish and postseason success. He sustained a knee injury in a recent game against Kentucky.
Key moment
A pivotal stretch occurred from the end of the first half into the early moments of the second, during which Tennessee executed a 14-2 run, pushing their lead to 30-21. Gainey was instrumental during this stretch, scoring six points.
Key stat
Tennessee’s efficiency was evident as they converted their first six shots of the second half, extending their lead into double digits.
Up next
Florida will face No. 24 Vanderbilt on Tuesday night, while Tennessee is set to host No. 20 Missouri on Wednesday night.
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