Tennessee emerged victorious in their first game in NASSAU, defeating Virginia. This win sets them on a path to the Championship on Friday night. The Baha Mar Hoops tournament in NASSAU, The Bahamas, witnessed an intense battle between the two teams. Tennessee's defense, with Felix Okpara as the key focus, showed early dominance with three blocks in the first half, keeping them ahead despite a slow offensive start. Entering the half, they were only one point ahead of the tough ACC competition.

Chaz Lanier's Impact

Transfer guard Chaz Lanier was a game-changer for Tennessee. He found his momentum in the first half, putting up 18 points and finishing with a season-high 26 points. This performance not only led Tennessee to victory but also helped him reach the 1k career points mark in his college career. His contribution was crucial in keeping Tennessee in the lead.

Igor Milicic Jr.'s Performance

Igor Milicic Jr. was another standout for Tennessee, going over double-digit points with 14 on the board. His presence added to the team's offensive firepower and helped them maintain their lead.

Quick Turnaround and Next Challenge

Tennessee will now have a quick turnaround as they prepare to take on the Baylor Bears in the Baha Mar Hoops Championship game. This game follows a buzzer-beater win in second overtime. Both teams are ranked inside the top 15, making it an exciting match-up. Make sure to follow our website Tennessee on SI for all the latest updates.