Vols routed by Arkansas, 85-67
Following a signature win at home against Kentucky Tuesday night, Tennessee shot just 35 percent in its worst loss of the season, 85-67, at Arkansas.
Photo by Ryan McGill
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Following a signature win at home against Kentucky Tuesday night, Tennessee shot just 35 percent in its worst loss of the season, 85-67, at Arkansas.
When asked about his team’s performance, Rick Barnes bluntly said, “They outplayed us in about every single way you can be outplayed.”
Trailing by as much as 24, the Vols never held a lead in the game. Their biggest struggle came on the defensive end of the floor, as they allowed the Razorbacks to score at will both in the paint and from the three point line.
The SEC’s best three point shooting team continued its pace at familiar Bud Walton Arena as the Hogs shot 9-of-22 from the three point line. The Hogs had five players in double figures, with Moses Kingsley leading the way with 17.
Although Tennessee shot 37 percent from the three point line, it only hit 2-of-12 from the arc. Barnes was not pleased with the Vols effort either.
“I thought we had too many guys making excuses, too, when they came to the bench,” Barnes said.
“That’s usually a sign of immaturity.”
The Vols are usually carried by their star Kevin Punter and he struggled to get going early. Although Punter had 24 points, he shot a measly 7-of-18 overall.
Robert Hubbs III and Devon Baulkman continued their recent offensive struggle, scoring two points each. Shembari Phillips showed some growth in his game, scoring 12 points and shooting 3-of-6 from the three point line.
Barnes’ squad looks to rebound Tuesday when they host former Tennessee head coach Bruce Pearl and the Auburn Tigers in Thompson-Boling Arena.
The Tigers bested the Vols earlier this year 83-77 behind strong shooting performances from Kareem Canty and Bryce Brown. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. ET on the SEC Network.
Featured image by Ryan McGill
Edited by Cody McClure
Dominic is in his second year writing on staff at TNJN. Along with being a staff writer, he also covers the UT men's basketball beat. He is currently a senior at the University of Tennessee majoring in Journalism and Electronic Media. Follow him @dominiclobianco on Twitter!
