Tennessee Volunteers vs Florida Gators – NCAA Basketball Preview – Jan 7, 2025
The undefeated Tennessee Volunteers visit the Florida Gators at Exactech Arena on Tuesday, January 7, 2025. Tennessee holds a perfect 14-0 record, sitting 3rd in the SEC, while Florida is 13-1 and 14th in the conference. Both teams are looking to make a statement in this early-season SEC clash.
In their last meeting, Tennessee dominated Florida with an 85-66 victory in Knoxville. The Volunteers aim to set a new program record for the best start to a season, while the Gators hope to bounce back from their first loss of the year, a high-scoring 106-100 defeat at Kentucky.
Volunteers Preview – Can Tennessee Stay Perfect?
Tennessee enters the game riding high after a dominant 76-52 win over Arkansas. Chaz Lanier continues to shine, leading the team with 29 points in the victory. Lanier, a transfer from North Florida, is averaging 20.3 points and has hit 56 three-pointers this season. Igor Milicic Jr. added a double-double with 13 points and 18 rebounds against Arkansas, showcasing Tennessee’s depth.
The Volunteers’ defense has been key to their success, holding opponents to just 38.4% shooting. Tennessee’s rebounding, led by Milicic’s 8.9 boards per game, ranks among the best in the SEC. With eight wins by more than 20 points this season, Tennessee has demonstrated its ability to dominate both ends of the court.
Coach Rick Barnes has high expectations for his experienced roster. Lanier’s scoring and Milicic’s inside presence make Tennessee a tough matchup for any opponent. Their defense will be critical against Florida’s potent scoring attack.
Gators Preview – Can Florida Rebound from Their First Loss?
Florida looks to recover from a tough loss to Kentucky, where they allowed 106 points despite a 33-point effort from Walter Clayton Jr. Clayton, who averages 18.3 points per game, is the Gators’ top scorer and a threat from deep with 43 made three-pointers. Alijah Martin, another key contributor, adds 15.9 points per game and is coming off a 26-point performance against Kentucky.
Defensively, the Gators struggled against Kentucky but have been solid overall, holding opponents to 66.5 points per game. Florida’s ability to contest shots and control the perimeter will be tested by Tennessee’s offensive firepower.
The Gators have been dominant at home, winning all seven of their games in Gainesville this season. However, they’ll need to improve their defensive execution to contain the Volunteers’ balanced attack.
Betting Prediction
Florida is a slight favorite, laying 3.5 points with a total set at 149.5. Tennessee’s perfect record and defensive strength make them a strong underdog pick in this matchup. Florida’s offense has been explosive, but Tennessee’s ability to control the pace and dominate the boards could neutralize the Gators’ attack.
Expect a close game, but Tennessee’s defensive edge and depth make them likely to cover the spread, if not win outright. The total may stay under, given Tennessee’s tendency to slow games down and limit scoring opportunities.
Pick: Tennessee +3.5, Under 149.5
