Holy crap, that game just took years off of every person's life in Knoxville with how the final five minutes went. It was stressful, and that may be an understatement, but my gosh, Tennessee did it and pulled off the upset on No. 3 Virginia 79-72.
This could not have been done without Tennessee’s two-star players, Ja’Kobi Gillespie and Nate Ament. Having the freshman forward Ament proved to be absolutely massive during the game. He added 16 points and four rebounds. His absence wasn't noticed much last game against Miami (OH), but today he was needed badly.
Not to mention, elite guard play wins games in March Madness and Ja’Kobi Gillespie was an absolute machine once again. He added 21 points and six assists, and the star guard was once again a force in the biggest moments for Tennessee. His presence and confidence make everyone in Tennessee better.
Rick Barnes made two huge additions this offseason
In the biggest moments, Tennessee’s two best players made the most out of their opportunities. Both players are in their first year at Tennessee. It cannot be stated how big the portal add of Gillespie was, and how amazing Ament has been as a five-star freshman. Yes, did Gillespie and Ament make a few silly plays down the stretch? They did, but they also were able to show up in the second half when Tennessee needed a bucket.
Gillespie was a workhouse tonight, playing 38 minutes. The Vols are much less efficient with him not knowing the floor, so having him out for as much as possible is huge. Another key stat is that Gillespie made all six of his free throw attempts. Overall, the Vols were 19-25 from the line which is solid. A little bit better would be nice especially in the clutch moments but they did pretty good tonight.
Tennessee will now play Iowa State, which could have a missing star player, Joshua Jefferson. Despite no Jefferson against Kentucky, the Cyclones still beat Kentucky to move on to the Sweet 16. Tennessee has lived to fight another week, and they have a chance to make a Final Four, something Barnes has been trying to reach forever. This could get interesting.