The University of Tennessee men’s basketball team made a triumphant return to the hardwood Saturday night as it routed Vanderbilt, 81-61, in a Southeastern Conference contest at Thompson-Boling Arena.
The No. 10 Volunteers (10-1, 4-1 SEC) converted shots from all parts of the floor. Freshman Keon Johnson paced a potent offensive attack as he scored 16 points.
The Vols also received another solid performance from forward John Fulkerson.
Fulkerson scored 15 points and pulled down eight rebounds to lead the Big Orange past the Commodores (4-6, 0-3). He also dished out an assist in the game.
The Vols, who had a 34-24 lead at halftime, boasted a balanced scoring attack.
Victor Bailey Jr., a junior guard and transfer from Oregon, scored 11 points and knocked down three consecutive 3-pointers at one juncture early in the second half.
Jaden Springer, another freshman scored 10 points, grabbed seven rebounds, dished out five assists and had three steals.
The Vols also continued its stingy trademark defense as this marked the 11th consecutive game that Tennessee has not allowed an opposing player to score 20 points.
Vanderbilt’s Dylan Disu and Scotty Pippen Jr. came close, as Disu had 19 points and Pippen Jr. finished with 18 before fouling out of the game.
The victory was the 719th career win for Tennessee head coach Rick Barnes. He passed Phog Allen on the all-time wins list.
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