Whenever Mike Krzyzewski speaks, it's time to listen up. One of the greatest college coaches, regardless of the sport, of all time has been seeing what the Tennessee Vols have been able to get done thus far this season.
Come Friday night, the Vols will be taking on Kentucky in Indianapolis in a monster Sweet Sixteen showdown. A trip to the Elite Eight to potentially take on No. 1 Houston is on the line. If you ask Krzyzewski, Tennessee has what it takes to take care of business vs. UK. Not only that, but the legendary Duke HC also sees Tennessee making even more magic happen vs. Houston.
Mike Krzyzewski sees the Tennessee Vols pushing for a trip to the Final Four
"Tennessee is a Final Four caliber team," Krzyzewski said on his SiriusXM show Basketball & Beyond with Coach K. "I'll tell you what, Houston-Tennessee in the Elite Eight would be a war. And Kentucky's playing well, I just think Tennessee's defense is better.”
When you have Zakai Zeigler, the SEC Defensive Player of the Year, and Jahmai Mashack, one of the top defenders in the country, it makes sense as to why Coach K is giving the Vols the upper hand on D. Not only that, but going up against Houston won't be easy for anyone, but Krzyzewski likes UT's chances.
First, however, everyone needs to focus on Friday night and the dance with Mark Pope and his players. Thus far this campaign, the Wildcats have owned the Vols, winning both in Lexington and Knoxville. UK has every right to feel confident, which is why Lamont Butler has guaranteed a win.
Those were some choice words from the Kentucky standout, and they are ones that the Tennessee locker room is going to have in mind leading up to tip-off. Soon enough, the wait will be over and the Vols will hope to end Kentucky's season. Coach K thinks that will end up happening.