John Fulkerson leads Vols past Florida on senior day

Recapping UT’s victory over Florida Sunday.

A regular season of ups and downs ended on a high note for Tennessee.

The Volunteers won its 2020-21 regular-season finale Sunday against Florida.

The Vols overcame a 14-point deficit and used a big second half to notch a 65-54 victory over Florida at Thompson-Boling Arena.

Late in the first half, Tennessee (17-7, 10-7 SEC) was behind Florida (13-8, 9-7), 31-17. Tennessee closed the gap to 33-28 by halftime.

The Vols slowly turned things into its favor as it outscored the Gators, 37-21, after the break.

Tennessee’s victory claims a No. 4 seed in the upcoming SEC Tournament at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville.

The Vols will have a double-bye and return to the court Friday at 2 p.m. EST against an opponent to be determined.

With the win, UT avenged a 75-49 loss to the Gators in Gainesville earlier this season.

Mar 7, 2021; Knoxville, Tennessee; Tennessee Volunteers forward John Fulkerson (10) and guard Yves Pons (35) are recognized on senior day before the game against the Florida Gators at Thompson-Boling Arena. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports

Seniors John Fulkerson and Yves Pons came up big to close things out.

Fulkerson posted one of his best efforts of the campaign as he scored 14 points, pulled down seven rebounds, dished out four assists and recorded a steal.

The Kingsport, Tennessee native slapped the floor as he left the court. The contest was in all likelihood his final game at Thompson-Boling Arena. He choked back tears as he was saluted by fans and teammates while departing.

Pons, meanwhile, scored five points and grabbed eight boards for Tennessee.

Victor Bailey Jr. and Keon Johnson also poured in 14 points for the Big Orange. Josiah-Jordan James finished the contest with eight points for the Vols.

Tyree Appleby led the Gators with 19 points and Colin Castleton had 11.

PHOTOS: Tennessee basketball 2020-21 regular season

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