Spearman’s late bucket lifts No. 19 Tennessee over No. 5 UConn 80-76

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – Zee Spearman scored 18 factors, together with a basket with 12 seconds left, to steer No. 19 Tennessee to an 80-76 win over No. 5 UConn on Thursday evening.

The Girl Volunteers (17-5) led 78-76 when Jewel Spear discovered Spearman for the basket. It was Tennessee’s first victory over the Huskies (21-3) since 2007. The Girl Vols had misplaced all 4 conferences because the rivalry was renewed in 2020.

Samara Spencer scored 14, Spear had 12 and Talaysia Cooper added 11.

Sarah Sturdy scored 18 factors for the Huskies. Paige Bueckers collected 14, Kk Arnold had 11 and Azzi Fudd 10.

Sturdy scored 12 factors within the first half as UConn jumped to a 39-37 benefit. Tennessee outrebounded the Huskies, 24-19, however shot simply 18.8% from 3-point (3 of 16). UConn compelled the Girl Vols into 10 turnovers.

Takeaways

UConn: Sturdy has quickly grown into one of many high freshmen within the nation. The 6-foot-2 ahead has the energy to be a put up presence and the agility to shoot 37% from 3-point vary. She’s averaging 17 factors and seven.8 rebounds.

Tennessee: In addition to High-10 battles with SEC foes South Carolina, Texas and LSU, the matchup in opposition to UConn will assist the Girl Vols down the street come match time. Seeing the elite competitors is a plus. Enjoying effectively in these sport might be thought of in seeding.

Key second

UConn led 45-41 early within the third quarter. Tennessee held the Huskies scoreless for the following 4:20 whereas scoring 11 straight factors to take the lead.

Key stat

Tennessee held a 46-34 rebounding benefit.

Up subsequent

UConn will journey to Windfall on Sunday and Tennessee will go to No. 7 LSU Sunday.

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