This season for the Tennessee Volunteers has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows. They've pulled off impressive victories like the 79-73 win over then-No.
17 Alabama, but also suffered tough losses, such as the 91-67 defeat by the unranked Florida Gators. Consistency has been elusive for the Vols, and with just six regular-season games left, they're facing a pivotal moment.
Here's a look at Tennessee's remaining schedule:
- vs. Oklahoma Sooners - Feb.
18
- at No.
19 Vanderbilt Commodores - Feb. 21
- at Missouri Tigers - Feb. 24
- vs. No.
25 Alabama Crimson Tide - Feb. 28
- at South Carolina Gamecocks - March 3
- vs.
No. 19 Vanderbilt Commodores - March 7
Each matchup poses a significant challenge, especially with Alabama seeking redemption and Vanderbilt aiming to dominate their in-state rivalry. The SEC's reputation as a powerhouse basketball conference means that every game is a battle, even if the conference hasn't been as dominant as last year.
If the Vols falter in these final games and don't make a splash in the SEC Tournament, they risk missing the NCAA Tournament entirely. This year's team hasn't shown the same spark that might suggest a deep tournament run, and head coach Rick Barnes has openly critiqued the team's effort.
Yet, it's not time to panic just yet. ESPN's Joe Lunardi currently projects Tennessee as a No. 6 seed in the NCAA Tournament. So, while there's still hope, the Vols need to take a hard look at themselves and elevate their game to avoid a March filled with disappointment.
The journey begins tonight against the Oklahoma Sooners, a crucial game that could set the tone for the rest of the season. Tip-off is at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN2, and it's an opportunity for Tennessee to start solidifying their tournament credentials.