Tennessee Volunteers Dominate Rice in 91-66 Victory

Knoxville, TN – The University of Tennessee men’s basketball team took control early and never looked back in a 91-66 win against Rice at Food City Center on November 17. This victory marks their 40th consecutive non-conference home win.

Senior forward led No. 20/17 Tennessee (4-0) with a career-high 20 points and added eight rebounds. The Volunteers started strong, holding Rice (2-3) to just one basket in their first nine attempts within the first six minutes and establishing a 21-9 lead.

Despite a brief comeback by the Owls, who closed the gap to five points mid-first half, Tennessee’s defense took charge again. The Volunteers forced nine straight missed shots, extending their lead to 36-22 before heading into halftime with a 39-26 advantage. The strong performance on both ends saw Tennessee shooting 53.1 percent while limiting Rice to 24.1 percent.

In the second half, Tennessee maintained control and pushed their lead to as much as 26 points. Freshman forward added a three-point play late in the game, bringing the score to 83-57. This victory represents Tennessee’s third straight win by at least 25 points.

Okpara’s efficient night included 8-of-10 shooting and four free throws. Ament also performed admirably, achieving his first collegiate double-double with 19 points and 10 rebounds. He was supported by senior guard who scored 17 points and dished out eight assists.

On the Owls’ side, senior guard Nick Anderson topped Rice’s scoring with 19 points. Graduate guard Tre Broadnax struggled, failing to make a field goal in 16 attempts.

Tennessee dominated inside, outscoring Rice 52-16 in the paint and grabbing 18 offensive rebounds. As they head into their next game against Tennessee State on November 20, the Volunteers look to extend their perfect start to the season.