Tennessee dominates Miami in Jimmy V Classic showdown
- Chaz Lanier led the Volunteers with 22 points, marking a key performance in the game.
- Tennessee maintained their unbeaten record, improving to 9-0 after the victory.
- The win demonstrates Tennessee's capabilities and positions them favorably as the top-ranked team.
On December 10, 2024, in New York City, the top-ranked Tennessee Volunteers faced off against the Miami Hurricanes at Madison Square Garden during the Jimmy V Classic. This matchup marked a significant event for Tennessee, as it was their first game ranked No. 1 since February 2019, and they entered the game with a perfect record of 8-0. The Volunteers built on their strong momentum from the season, as they were eager to maintain their winning streak. In contrast, Miami struggled with a disappointing record of 3-8, having lost their last six games leading up to this matchup. The game saw Tennessee take control late in the first half after a back-and-forth opening period. Miami briefly held a two-point lead, but after Zakai Zeigler hit three free throws, Tennessee went on a 14-0 run, effectively changing the game's momentum. Chaz Lanier was a standout player for Tennessee, scoring 22 points and ensuring the Volunteers' dominance with his offensive performance. Teammate Igor Milicic Jr. contributed significantly as well, adding 16 points and grabbing nine rebounds, which further solidified Tennessee's commanding presence in the contest. Despite Miami's efforts to claw back into the game, they faced shooting struggles, particularly from beyond the arc. The Hurricanes had a strong start, making four of their first seven three-point attempts but ultimately finished the game shooting only 39.3% overall and 24.2% from three-point territory. Lynn Kidd led Miami's scoring with 14 points, while Nyjel Pack and AJ Station-McCray added 12 and 11 points respectively. Nevertheless, the Hurricanes faced their seventh consecutive loss, highlighting their ongoing struggles in the season. Tennessee's victory showcased their ability to perform under pressure, with strong contributions from their key players, ultimately reflecting their status as the top-ranked team in the nation. This win marked Tennessee's ninth straight victory by double digits, showcasing their strength and consistency. Looking ahead, the Volunteers are set to face Illinois next, while Miami will look to turn their fortunes around against Presbyterian. This match served as a clear indication of Tennessee's potential this season, along with the need for Miami to regroup and find their footing.