This was the kind of game that players dream about. With No. 1 Tennessee hoops on the ropes on the road against Illinois, it was Jordan Gainey who stepped up and delivered for Rick Barnes. Who had a Gainey breakout game on their bingo card? We sure didn't.
The Vols were able to escape with a 66-64 victory over Illinois thanks to Gainey's incredible bucket as time expired. UT is now 10-0 on the year and Gainey is a big reason for that. Thanks to reporter Kevin Sweeney, we have a new look at Gainey's game-winner. Spoiler alert, it's absolutely awesome:
Jordan Gainey for the WIN!!! pic.twitter.com/pwrpmRtMPi
— Kevin Sweeney (@CBB_Central) December 15, 2024
Jordan Gainey was the hero for Tennessee in the 66-64 win over Illinois
Coast to coast! Gainey was not going to be denied on that play, which was so great to see. It was a career night for him, posting 23 points. No points were bigger than the ones that gave the Vols their win in dramatic style.
What made things even better here too was the priceless reaction from Barnes. He didn't hesitate in putting his arms high into the sky to celebrate what Gainey and his teammates were able to get done against Illinois. It was a big-time test for the team, but they were able to find a way late to get the job done. Next up for UT is a home game vs. Western Carolina on Tuesday night.