The Lady Vols closed out their 2025 slate in emphatic fashion, steamrolling Southern Indiana 89-44 at Food City Center. It was a wire-to-wire win that showcased Tennessee’s depth, defensive intensity, and the kind of offensive balance that can make this team dangerous heading into SEC play.
Tennessee, ranked No. 18, didn’t waste time asserting control. By halftime, they’d built a 37-23 lead, and they never looked back.
What stood out wasn’t just the margin of victory-it was how many players contributed to it. Twelve different Lady Vols got on the scoreboard, a clear sign of both depth and unselfish play.
Leading the way was Nya Robertson, who poured in 20 points while adding five rebounds, three assists, and a pair of steals. She was efficient, aggressive, and set the tone on both ends. Mia Pauldo wasn’t far behind with 19 points of her own, and Alyssa Latham chipped in with a well-rounded effort-10 points, six boards, two steals, and an assist.
But it wasn’t just the scoring that told the story. Tennessee’s defense was suffocating.
The Lady Vols forced 29 turnovers and turned those into 36 points-a backbreaker for any opponent. Zee Spearman was a defensive force, stuffing the stat sheet with seven points, seven rebounds, six blocks, three steals, and two assists.
Her presence in the paint made life miserable for Southern Indiana, who simply couldn’t find any rhythm offensively.
Janiah Barker also made her presence felt with eight points, seven rebounds, two blocks, and two steals. She brought energy and toughness, helping control the glass and disrupt passing lanes.
Offensively, Tennessee was lights out from deep, knocking down 18 three-pointers. That kind of perimeter shooting, combined with their ability to pressure the ball and dominate in transition, makes them a tough matchup for anyone. It wasn’t just a win-it was a statement.
Southern Indiana, who came into the matchup with the same 8-3 record as Tennessee, couldn’t keep pace. Ali Saunders led the Screaming Eagles with 14 points, but the team struggled to generate consistent offense against Tennessee’s relentless pressure.
Now, the Lady Vols turn their attention to conference play. They’ll open SEC action on New Year’s Day against Florida, right back at Food City Center.
Tipoff is set for 2 p.m. ET, and if this performance was any indication, Tennessee looks ready to hit the ground running in 2026.