Lady Vols Dominate Missouri in Kellie Harper’s Return to Knoxville
The No. 22 Tennessee Lady Vols didn’t just win Thursday night-they made a statement.
In a 98-53 rout of Missouri at Food City Center, Tennessee reminded everyone why they’re a force to be reckoned with in the SEC. But beyond the scoreboard, the night carried a deeper meaning: it marked Kellie Harper’s return to Rocky Top, this time on the opposing sideline.
Harper, a Tennessee legend who helped deliver three straight national titles as a player under the iconic Pat Summitt from 1996 to 1998, was back in Knoxville for the first time since her tenure as Lady Vols head coach ended in 2024. She led the program for five seasons, going 108-52 overall and 53-24 in SEC play, with four NCAA Tournament appearances under her belt.
But on this night, the Lady Vols belonged to a new chapter-and they played like a team with something to prove.
Barker Sets the Tone
Janiah Barker was the engine behind Tennessee’s offensive explosion. The forward poured in 22 points on an efficient 9-of-16 from the field, including two triples and a perfect night at the free-throw line. Barker didn’t just score-she set the tone with her energy and versatility, stretching the floor while also doing the dirty work inside.
She was flanked by a balanced supporting cast. Jaida Civil and Deniya Prawl each grabbed 10 rebounds, while Barker added eight of her own, helping Tennessee dominate the glass. Talaysia Cooper dished out a team-high four assists, keeping the offense humming and the tempo high.
Complete Team Effort
This was one of those games where everything clicked for Tennessee. The Lady Vols got 29 points from their bench, a testament to the depth and cohesion of this squad.
They owned the paint with 54 points inside, turned defense into offense with 27 points off turnovers, and kept possessions alive with 23 second-chance points. Even when the game was well in hand, the Lady Vols didn’t let up, pushing the pace and adding seven fast-break points to the mix.
Missouri, now 16-11 overall and 4-8 in SEC play, simply couldn’t keep up with Tennessee’s intensity or execution.
Looking Ahead
Tennessee, now 16-6 overall and 8-2 in the SEC, is peaking at the right time. With postseason play inching closer, this kind of dominant performance-rooted in hustle, depth, and a clear identity-sends a message to the rest of the conference.
Thursday night was about more than just a win. It was a celebration of the program’s past, a nod to one of its most decorated figures, and a glimpse at a future that looks increasingly bright.