CHICAGO - In a thrilling Elite Eight showdown against Michigan, Tennessee's point guard Ja’Kobi Gillespie etched his name into the Vols' history books. Gillespie became just the fourth player in the program's storied history to drain 100 three-pointers in a single season, a milestone that speaks volumes about his sharpshooting prowess.
**The Greeneville, Tennessee native didn't have the smoothest start, missing his first three attempts from beyond the arc. But on his fourth try, Gillespie found his rhythm, nailing a crucial three-pointer that put Tennessee ahead 14-12 midway through the first half.
This shot not only gave the Vols an early lead but also secured Gillespie's place among Tennessee legends like Chris Lofton, Chaz Lanier, and Santiago Vescovi, who have all reached triple-digit threes in a season. **
**Chaz Lanier set the bar high last year with a record-breaking 123 threes. Chris Lofton was a consistent threat from deep, hitting over 100 threes in three different seasons, with his senior year tally at an impressive 118.
Santiago Vescovi joined this elite club in the 2021-22 season with 102 triples, sharing the court with Kennedy Chandler and Zakai Zeigler. **
**With his milestone shot against Michigan, Gillespie also surpassed Allan Houston, moving into sixth place for the most three-pointers made in a single season for the Vols. This achievement comes even as Gillespie's shooting percentage from deep stands at 33.9% this season-lower than his previous stints at Maryland and Belmont.
The dip in percentage is a testament to the defensive pressure he faces, yet he continues to deliver when it matters most. **
**Gillespie’s contributions extend well beyond the arc. Averaging 18.3 points, 5.5 assists, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 steals per game, his impact is felt all over the court.
Tennessee relies heavily on their senior point guard, especially given the team's need for ball handlers and perimeter scorers. His presence on the court often dictates the Vols' success, as his absence is keenly felt when he's on the bench.
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**His performance last weekend in Philadelphia was nothing short of spectacular. In victories over Miami (Ohio) and Virginia, Gillespie racked up 50 points, 15 assists, nine rebounds, and four steals, joining an exclusive group of NCAA Tournament players.
He became just the third player in the modern era to achieve 50 points and 15 assists in the first two games, joining the ranks of UConn’s Kemba Walker and Providence’s Billy Donovan. **
For Tennessee, Gillespie is more than just a shooter-he's the heartbeat of their tournament run, and his journey this season has been nothing short of remarkable.