In a gritty SEC showdown that lived up to the hype, No. 17 Tennessee edged out No.
12 Kentucky, 60-58, in a back-and-forth battle at Food City Center on Thursday night. This one had all the ingredients of a classic - six lead changes, three ties, and a finish that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final buzzer.
For the Lady Vols, it wasn’t just another win - it was their seventh straight and a statement that they’re very much in control of the SEC at 6-0. They led for nearly 35 minutes of game time, showing poise and resilience even as Kentucky kept clawing back.
What stood out was Tennessee’s ability to win the hustle categories. They racked up 21 points off turnovers, turning defensive pressure into offense with impressive efficiency. Add in 13 second-chance points and 11 fast break points, and you get a team that’s not just playing hard - they’re playing smart.
Mia Pauldo was the engine that kept Tennessee running. The sophomore guard poured in 21 points on 9-of-22 shooting.
While her 2-for-11 mark from deep wasn’t ideal, she found ways to impact the game beyond the arc. She added four rebounds, two assists, and a steal - a performance that showcased her ability to lead even when the shots aren’t falling consistently.
Jaida Civil did the dirty work on the glass, leading the team with six rebounds. It wasn’t a flashy stat line, but her physicality inside helped Tennessee control the paint, where they outscored Kentucky 20-12.
Another key factor? The bench.
Tennessee got 13 points from their reserves - a subtle but important edge in a tight game like this. Every contribution mattered in a contest where neither team could afford to waste possessions.
With the win, Tennessee keeps its SEC record spotless and gains serious momentum heading into their next matchup. They’ll be back in action on Jan. 26, hitting the road to face Ole Miss in a primetime clash on ESPNU. If they keep playing with this kind of grit and balance, the Lady Vols are going to be a tough out for anyone in the conference.