Losing is never easy, but it’s especially tough when the loss ends your season.
Tennessee (31-6) stormed back after trailing by 18 points in the second half to take a lead late against Purdue (26-9) in the Sweet Sixteen. The Vols were down 51-33 in the first four minutes of the second half, but they roared back to life and grabbed a 70-67 lead with 5:25 to go in the game.
The two teams exchanged blows for the remaining five minutes and change, and thanks to a controversial foul call on Lamonte Turner with 1.7 seconds left in the second half, the game ended up going to overtime.
In the extra period, Tennessee just didn’t have enough left in the tank after their comeback.
Purdue gutted out a 99-94 victory in overtime, squashing the Vols’ great second half effort. The loss ends Tennessee’s season earlier than the team and fans wanted it to, and the scene in UT’s locker room was understandably very emotional after the game.
Tennessee head coach Rick Barnes spoke with the team, telling them how proud he was of them for what they accomplished not only this season, but over the last three and four years. He specifically mentioned Admiral Schofield and Kyle Alexander, the Vols’ two scholarship seniors, and pointed out junior Grant Williams as well.
After a pause, Barnes himself got teared up and called for his team to do one last group prayer. He then embraced all four of Tennessee’s seniors one-by-one, including walk-ons Lucas Campbell and Brad Woodson.
You can watch the entire emotional scene here:
@Mr_Rutherford This is family. pic.twitter.com/mIPRWsbtxa
— Tennessee Basketball (@Vol_Hoops) March 29, 2019
6 Responses
This is a wonderful article. Thank you.
Yes, that controversial call and most others that the refs made last night were BS. Purdue was a great team, as are our guys, but what does it say about a team if the refs have to win it for you? They cheat in sports starting in peewee league. Referees are apparently untouchable, kind of like the IRS. There’s probably 10 refs nationwide that aren’t going to hell.
I am very proud of this team..I am very proud to be a Tennessee Volunteers..
This just breaks my heart knowing how hard they worked and strived and gave their heart and soul to every game. I have been a boss fan for 60 years and will continue being a boss fan until I take my last breath. This team has made me very proud and I wish nothing but the best for the seniors they’re leaving thank you vase for an awesome season VFL
Brad Woodson is my great nephew; that is how I have come to know and love this team!!! God Bless you all!
You make Tennessee proud!!!
Love this team! These young men are
amazing! They deserve all the credit; and hats
off to an incredible coach!!