Tennessee Women’s Basketball Triumphs Over Memphis

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The No. 18 Tennessee Lady Vols showcased their strength in a decisive 90-75 victory against Memphis, kicking off a challenging three-game road stretch.

A Changing Lineup

Tennessee’s starting five featured Ruby Whitehorn, Zee Spearman, Tess Darby, Talaysia Cooper, and Samara Spencer, continuing a season of lineup fluctuations, with nine different players having taken the court as starters. Remarkably, no player has appeared in every game as a starter.

Strong Start for Memphis

The Tigers seized an early advantage at FedExForum, establishing a 7-3 lead just four minutes into the game. However, Tennessee’s Sara Puckett narrowed the deficit to 7-5 with a timely put-back.

Key Turnaround

As the first quarter wound down, Cooper’s steal led to an and-one layup from Jewel Spear. She converted a free throw to tie the game at 19-19, and Whitehorn hit a pivotal three-pointer, allowing Tennessee to enter the second quarter with a slim lead.

Memorable Runs

Memphis responded robustly, launching an 11-0 run fueled by turnovers from the Lady Vols, which pushed their lead to 34-27 with about 5:45 remaining in the half.

Yet, Spear found her rhythm, nailing two three-pointers that contributed to the Lady Vols regaining the upper hand by halftime, leading 42-41. After missing the previous two games, she emerged as the team’s top scorer at the break with 14 points.

Hot Start to the Second Half

Tennessee came out energized in the second half, initiating a 7-0 run, capped by another three-pointer from Whitehorn, stretching their lead to eight points.

Spencer briefly exited the game after a fall while defending a Memphis layup but made a swift return, showcasing her resilience.

Securing the Victory

With the Lady Vols up by 10 points (77-66) and 5:45 left on the clock, they maintained their advantage and secured the win. Spear and Spearman both contributed 18 points, while five additional players reached double figures, ensuring Tennessee’s undefeated season continued. The Lady Vols now stand as one of only two women’s basketball teams in the nation without a loss, alongside LSU.

Upcoming Challenge

Looking ahead, the Lady Vols will participate in the West Palm Beach Classic, where they are set to face Richmond on Friday, December 20, at 2:15 p.m. in Florida.