On Thursday night, the mission was accomplished for the Tennessee basketball team. While Wofford sure made things interesting in the second half, the Vols were able to pull away late to post a 77-62 victory. Next up is a dance with UCLA on Saturday night.
Shortly after the win, Jay Wright, with Tennessee legend Candace Parker right next to him, couldn't hold back by providing UT with a ton of praise. In particular, Wright sang the praises of All-American point guard Zakai Zeigler, who finished with 12 points, 12 assists and zero turnovers.
With Zeigler playing so well and being a floor general for Rick Barnes, Wright likes the potential this team has to go on a deep run. Matter of fact, the legendary head coach didn't hesitate in saying the offense might make the difference in this team putting itself in a spot to make program history.
Jay Wright is loving what he's seeing out of Tennessee and Zakai Zeigler
“This might be the best offensive team Tennessee has had in a while,” Wright said. “They’ve always been solid defensively, but they’re starting to execute some things where Zakai Zeigler’s playing at a really high level attacking and getting shots for teammates like that, but also going and getting his own. Chaz Lanier doesn’t get those shots (off) if Zakai Zeigler doesn’t find him at the perfect time off of the screen.”
Wright also was impressed with Lanier, which was the case for everyone in the country. The veteran sharpshooter was on fire from start to finish, leading the way with a game-high 29 points. It seemed like whenever Lanier let the ball fly, it was going to hit the bottom of the cotton.
If both Lanier and Zeigler can keep playing so well, there's no reason to believe that Tennessee can't make the Final Four for the first time ever. It would be a dream end to the campaign for this group if they can push for a natty. Wright will be following the team closely, especially against the Bruins on Saturday night. A trip to the Sweet Sixteen will be on the line in this one.