COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — The Tennessee Volunteers secured their first Southeastern Conference regular-season title in six years with a hard-fought 66-59 victory over the South Carolina Gamecocks on Wednesday night. Dalton Knecht led the charge for the fourth-ranked Vols with 26 points, including a crucial four-point play.
Despite a late surge by South Carolina, cutting a 14-point deficit to just three points in the final minutes, Tennessee managed to hold on and extend their lead in the SEC standings with one game remaining in the regular season.
Knecht's stellar performance was pivotal in the victory, showcasing his scoring prowess with timely shots from beyond the arc. His confidence and fearlessness on the court earned praise from head coach Rick Barnes, who highlighted Knecht's impact on the team's morale and performance.
The win not only secured the SEC regular-season title for Tennessee but also set the stage for upcoming challenges in the SEC Tournament and the NCAA tournament. With Knecht leading the charge, the Vols are poised to make a strong postseason run.
South Carolina, despite the loss, has had a remarkable season under coach Lamont Paris, exceeding expectations and contending for the SEC title. The Gamecocks, led by Meechie Johnson's 18 points, are now focused on securing a spot in the NCAA Tournament after a significant turnaround from last season.
Looking ahead, Tennessee will face off against No. 15 Kentucky in their final regular-season game, while South Carolina will take on Mississippi State on the road. Both teams are gearing up for postseason play, with high stakes and aspirations for success.
Overall, the matchup between Tennessee and South Carolina showcased the competitive spirit and determination of both teams as they navigate the final stretch of the regular season and prepare for the challenges that lie ahead in the postseason.
