The Tennessee Volunteers are set to face the UCLA Bruins in a thrilling second-round NCAA Tournament matchup, and all eyes are on this high-stakes showdown. With both teams looking to punch their ticket to the Sweet 16, this game promises to be a battle of grit, skill, and strategy. Here’s everything you need to know before tip-off.
Game Details
- Matchup: (2) Tennessee Volunteers vs. (7) UCLA Bruins
- Date: Saturday, March 22, 2025.
- Time: 9:40 PM Eastern Time (ET)
- Location: Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky.
- TV Coverage: TBS and truTV.
How Tennessee Got Here
The Vols dominated their first-round game, showcasing a balanced attack led by Chaz Lanier’s standout 29-point performance. With elite defensive intensity and a high-powered offense, Rick Barnes’ squad looks like a serious championship contender. Tennessee has relied on its physicality and deep roster throughout the season, and those strengths will be crucial against a tough UCLA team.
UCLA’s Road to Round Two
The Bruins survived a tough first-round battle to set up this clash with Tennessee. While they’ve had an up-and-down season, UCLA has the talent and experience to give the Vols a serious challenge. Led by veteran leadership and strong perimeter shooting, they’ll be looking to exploit any weaknesses in Tennessee’s defense.
Key Players to Watch
Tennessee:
- Chaz Lanier (G) – The breakout star who delivered a scoring masterclass in the first round.
- Dalton Knecht (F) – A dynamic scorer who can take over games when needed.
- Zakai Zeigler (G) – The floor general whose defensive prowess can disrupt UCLA’s backcourt.
UCLA:
- Adem Bona (F) – A dominant force in the paint, crucial for UCLA’s rebounding and interior defense.
- Sebastian Mack (G) – A sharpshooter who can stretch Tennessee’s defense.
- Dylan Andrews (G) – The Bruins’ primary playmaker who will look to control the tempo.
Matchup Breakdown
- Defense vs. Offense: Tennessee boasts one of the best defensive units in the tournament, while UCLA thrives on perimeter shooting and fast-break opportunities.
- Rebounding Battle: Controlling the boards will be key, as second-chance opportunities could tilt the game in favor of the more physical team.
- Coaching Chess Match: Rick Barnes’ experience versus UCLA’s strategic adjustments will play a huge role in determining the winner.
Prediction and Final Thoughts
This game has all the makings of an instant classic. Tennessee enters as the favorite, but UCLA’s underdog mentality and history of stepping up in big moments make them a dangerous opponent. If the Vols can control the pace and limit UCLA’s three-point efficiency, they have a strong chance of advancing. However, if the Bruins get hot from beyond the arc, an upset could be in the making.
