Tennessee Advances to Elite Eight, Defeats Kentucky 78-65

Tennessee Volunteers secured their spot in the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament with a commanding 78-65 victory over the Kentucky Wildcats, marking their second consecutive appearance in this round. Zakai Zeigler led the Volunteers with 18 points and 10 assists, while Chaz Lanier and Jordan Gainey contributed 33 points collectively. The Vols demonstrated strong defense, limiting Kentucky to just 65 points, which was 20 points below their season average, and maintained a double-digit lead throughout the game. Tennessee's relentless rebounding and offensive pressure were evident, generating significant second-chance points and dominating the glass. The victory was particularly sweet for Tennessee, as they avenged two regular-season losses to Kentucky. Next, the Volunteers will face either Houston or Purdue in the Midwest Region final.