Tennessee bounced back from its second loss of the season, dominating UNC Greensboro, 76-36, at Thompson-Boling Arena Saturday afternoon.
The Vols defense completely hounded the Spartans holding them 32 points under their season average. Tennessee suffocated UNC Greensboro, forcing 25 turnovers and holding the Spartans to .590 points per possession.
“The fact is, we got a group of guys that understand,” Barnes said. “They are taking pride in the fact that they want to be a really gooddefensive team. We know, to do that we need to be a good offensive team. If you’re not good on offense, it really puts the pressure on the defense. If you turn the ball over a lot … The fact that we didn’t turn it over very much today. It allows us to get our defense set. The biggest thing is the mindset going in. These guys have done a good job of preparation.”
After an abysmal shooting performance in Tuesday’s loss to Texas Tech, the Vols turned in a solid performance. Tennessee shot 37% from beyond the arc while Josiah Jordan James had his best game of the young season, making four triples.
Barnes discussed his team and James better shooting performance, the strong play of Brandon Huntley-Hatfield and whether he’s been surprised by how good the Vols defense has been.
