Tennessee defeated Kansas, 80-61, Saturday at Thompson-Boling Arena.
The contest was part of the SEC/Big 12 Challenge.
Tennessee senior forward Yves Pons finished with 17 points and rebounds in 23 minutes. Following the win, Pons discussed the Vols’ performance.
On what playing Kansas does to bring out the best in him:
“Kansas is a special team for me and I think for Fulky too. This is our third time playing against them. They kicked our butt the first two times, so it’s a great challenge to play them and they’re a great team. I was really excited about getting my revenge and that’s what we did tonight.”
On how he’s feeling physically:
“I feel great. It’s a game, so you’re going to get hit. I just need to get in the training room tomorrow and work on my body and I’ll be ready for our next game.”
On why the talk coach Barnes had with everyone regarding their roles was so effective:
“We needed a big change. We haven’t been the Tennessee team we’ve been from the beginning. Tonight, we got back to our standard. The talk we had yesterday was really effective and efficient. We freed our minds and focused on what we have to do personally and what our jobs our on the team and today I think everyone showed what they have to do.”
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