The Tennessee Volunteers, ranked 20th in the AP Poll and 17th in the Coaches Poll, are gearing up to take on the Rutgers Scarlet Knights in a thrilling matchup. Scheduled for Monday, the game will be held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas as part of the Players Era Tournament.
Tennessee vs. Rutgers Showdown
This contest marks the first meeting between these teams in over three decades. The last face-off occurred 33 years ago, following a 22-season gap between their initial matchups. Tennessee’s first victory against Rutgers took place in New York City on March 14, 1969, during the NIT. Their most recent win was on November 19, 1992, at the NIT Season Tip-Off.
Tennessee’s Strong Start
The Volunteers are currently undefeated at 5-0. They recently dominated Northern Kentucky with a 95-56 win, showcasing their strong start this season. Under Coach Rick Barnes, Tennessee has achieved a remarkable 42-40 record against current Big Ten schools, including a perfect season against them last year.
Player Highlights
- Dylan Grant of Rutgers is a key player, averaging 16.6 points and 7.2 rebounds per game.
- Tennessee boasts ten players averaging over 5.0 points per game, with three scoring at least 14.0 points.
- Nate Ament has emerged as a standout freshman, earning SEC Freshman of the Week honors twice already this season.
Matchup Statistics
| Statistic | Tennessee | Rutgers |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Record | 5-0 | 15-17 last year |
| Ranking | 20/17 | Not Ranked |
| Average Points (Grant) | 16.6 | 16.6 |
| Rebounding Margin | +19.2 | N/A |
Expectations and Broadcast Info
Tennessee’s history, strong roster and impressive start make this matchup a highly anticipated event in the basketball world. The Volunteers aim to secure another win as they continue their pursuit of excellence in the ongoing season.
