The stage is set for the Tennessee Vols and it's not overly dramatic to say that one of the biggest games in program history is on the way. That's right, UT will be taking on Kentucky in the Sweet Sixteen with a trip to the Elite Eight on the line. Oh, the intrigue.
Last time Tennessee was out on the hardwood, the Vols were able to post a convincing win over UCLA. However, fans were pretty darn upset about that game, as things didn't tip-off until nearly 10 p.m. ET. It was a total joke Tennessee, a No. 2 seed, had to play so late.
Thankfully, the NCAA has gone ahead and made things right for the upcoming showdown with the Wildcats. It has been announced that Tennessee and Kentucky will be facing off on Friday night in Indianapolis with a tip-off time of 7:39 p.m. ET.
Friday night lights#MarchMadness pic.twitter.com/CnpscvVk7t
— Tennessee Basketball (@Vol_Hoops) March 24, 2025
Tennessee and Kentucky will start at 7:39 p.m. ET on Friday night in Indianapolis
This is going to be a battle and it's a contest that people can't wait to arrive. Leading up to Friday, Kentucky's Lamont Butler made things a lot more interesting, as he has guaranteed a win over Tennessee. Yup, that's going to serve as extra motivation for everyone.
Chaz Lanier and Zakai Zeigler are going to be fired up to post a win even more now. Both players have been sensational for Rick Barnes in the NCAA Tournament. Lanier scored 29 points vs. Wofford and then he followed that up with 20 more against UCLA.
Zeigler has been burying shots as well, while also providing his usual fantastic assists. Soon enough, Kentucky and Tennessee will be taking the hardwood and the SEC rivals will be doing everything possible to make sure they end the other's campaign. The pressure is on for Tennessee to keep this magical season going. Will the Vols deliver for Barnes?