Tennessee aims for 12 straight wins against Winthrop
- Tennessee women's basketball team has achieved a 12-0 record after a victory against Winthrop.
- Sara Puckett and Ruby Whitehorn were key players in the game, scoring 17 and 16 points respectively.
- The Lady Volunteers are now preparing for their upcoming Southeastern Conference opener.
In Knoxville, Tennessee, on December 28, 2024, the No. 15 ranked Tennessee women's basketball team achieved a commanding victory over Winthrop, defeating them 112-50. This win marked the seventh time in program history that the Lady Volunteers have started a season with a 12-0 record. Under the guidance of first-year head coach Kim Caldwell, the team remains unbeaten with their strong offensive strategy. Sara Puckett was a standout player, contributing 17 points and grabbing eight rebounds, while Ruby Whitehorn added 16 points to the scoreboard. The Lady Vols displayed their offensive prowess, scoring more than 100 points for the sixth time this season, showcasing their leading national ranking in scoring average and 3-pointers made per game. The game reflected Tennessee's dominance, as they established a significant lead early, outscoring Winthrop 35-13 in the first quarter. By halftime, the Volunteers had expanded their lead to 61-32, and they continued to increase it throughout the game, eventually outscoring Winthrop 31-4 in the final quarter. The wide margin illustrated the disparity between the two teams, with Tennessee's effective shooting percentage significantly higher than that of Winthrop. As they prepare to open Southeastern Conference play on Thursday against Texas A&M, the Lady Vols are positioned strongly in their season. Meanwhile, Winthrop, falling to 1-5 on the road, will face South Carolina Upstate in their upcoming Big South Conference opener. This game serves as a crucial reminder of the competitive edge in college women's basketball and sets the stage for the forthcoming matchups in the season.