Tennessee Basketball head coach Rick Barnes and players Josiah-Jordan James and Santiago Vescovi met with the media following the Vols’ 46-43 win over Auburn in Thompson-Boling Arena on Saturday afternoon.
The Vols defeated Auburn backed by a strong defensive effort and a Josiah-Jordan James double-double. James was one of Tennessee’s lone bright spots offensively, posting 15 points. Additionally, James recorded 14 rebounds, delivering time and time again for Tennessee on both ends of the court.
Barnes emphasized Jahmai Mashack, Jonas Aidoo, and, most specifically, Tobe Awaka’s physicality in reasons Tennessee was able to walk out with a win. Additionally, Barnes credited all of Tennessee’s post players for being able to put together a bounce back performance after a lackluster night against Florida on Wednesday.
James and Vescovi kept emphasizing ‘character’ for the reason Tennessee was able to pull away with a victory. James also continued to praise Tobe Awaka for his performance, even comparing him to a football player.
Barnes’ entire postgame press conference is below, followed by Vescovi and James.
One Response
Tennessse must find a big man that can score. Defense is great but opponants with the Super Stars can score enough to win against an average scoring offense like the Vols. Wehn we are bad we arfe really bad, especially when you rely on three point shots. Also scrappy teams really give UT a problem. We seem to be a very slow team! If Barnes can motivate Nkamhoua to get tough like Plavsic they could go a long way. He plays like he is scared..my gosh Auburn made him look lie a highschooler,