The Lady Vols are eager to shake off a tough three-game skid, but the road ahead doesn't get any easier. They're set to face the formidable No.
11 Oklahoma Sooners in Norman on Sunday. This matchup comes with an added challenge as Tennessee will be without one of their standout players, Janiah Barker, who has been sidelined due to injury.
Barker's absence is a significant blow for Tennessee. She's been a key contributor, averaging 14.4 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game, shooting 46.9% from the field and 36.6% from beyond the arc. Her presence has been felt in 24 games this season, starting in 18, and she typically logs 24.1 minutes per game.
Her recent performance against Texas A&M was nothing short of spectacular, posting 29 points, 10 rebounds, and adding defensive stats with two steals and two blocks. Despite her efforts, the Lady Vols fell short, losing 82-74 at home.
As they prepare to take on Oklahoma, head coach Kim Caldwell emphasizes the challenges ahead. "They play incredibly fast," Caldwell noted.
"We need to defend the 3-point line and the post, areas where we've struggled recently. Transition defense will be crucial, and with limited prep time, we'll need to rely on quick film study and practice."
Following Oklahoma, Tennessee faces a daunting schedule with No. 7 LSU on the road and No.
5 Vanderbilt at home. These games are crucial as the Lady Vols look to bolster their NCAA Tournament resume before the SEC Tournament begins.
Tip-off against Oklahoma is set for 2 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on ESPN. Fans will be watching closely to see how Tennessee responds to these challenges and whether they can regain their footing in time for the postseason.