3 important takeaways from Tennessee basketball’s dominant win over Gardner-Webb

Dec 21, 2025; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers guard Troy Henderson (24) shoots a three pointer against Gardner-Webb Runnin' Bulldogs guard Curtis Williams (10) during the first half at Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-Imagn Images
Dec 21, 2025; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers guard Troy Henderson (24) shoots a three pointer against Gardner-Webb Runnin' Bulldogs guard Curtis Williams (10) during the first half at Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-Imagn Images | Randy Sartin-Imagn Images
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2. Freshman thrive in extended role

The nice thing about a blowout win is that it gives the bench a chance to get more live reps. The freshman took advantage of the extra minutes on Sunday.

DeWayne Brown II had six points and an insane 14 rebounds. Troy Henderson had a solid nine points, two boards, and two assists. Amari Evans has put together another good game, adding six points and three rebounds. The young guys played exceptionally well in their extra minutes. This is great to see since SEC play is coming and the bench will shorten.

You can’t help but feel like the Vols are in good hands with the young guns.

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