Tennessee basketball's highly anticipated exhibition matchup against Indiana ended in a disappointing 66-62 loss for the Volunteers. Despite high expectations, the 12th-ranked Vols struggled to find their rhythm offensively, shooting just 22.9% from beyond the arc. Zakai Zeigler led Tennessee with 13 points, but the team's overall performance left much to be desired as they head into the regular season.

A Missed Opportunity to Make a Statement

Tennessee Basketball Struggles to Find Offensive RhythmThe Volunteers' offense sputtered out of the gate, as they settled for a barrage of 3-point attempts in the first half. Tennessee finished the opening period just 3-for-20 from beyond the arc, struggling to establish a consistent scoring attack. While the team found more success in the second half, connecting on 4 of their first 7 attempts from deep, they ultimately finished the game a dismal 8-for-35 from 3-point range.Zakai Zeigler Leads the Way, but Lacks SupportZakai Zeigler was the lone bright spot for the Volunteers, leading the team with 13 points. However, the junior guard's efforts were not enough to overcome the team's collective offensive woes. With the Vols' other key contributors, such as Chaz Lanier and the frontcourt rotation, failing to make a significant impact, Tennessee struggled to find the scoring punch needed to overcome Indiana's late surge.Unsettled Frontcourt Rotation Raises ConcernsTennessee's frontcourt rotation remains a work in progress, with Igor Milicic Jr. starting at the four spot and Cade Phillips and Darlinstone Dubar providing support off the bench. Milicic showed flashes of promise, recording 8 points and 8 rebounds, but the overall production from the Vols' big men was inconsistent. Phillips' strong rebounding was offset by turnover issues, while Dubar had a minimal impact in limited minutes. This position group's lack of cohesion and consistent production could prove to be a significant challenge for Tennessee as they enter the regular season.Indiana's Late Run Seals the VictoryThe game remained close throughout, with Tennessee trailing for the final 6:21 after Indiana went on a decisive 10-0 run. The Hoosiers' ability to capitalize on the Volunteers' offensive struggles and pull away in the closing minutes ultimately proved to be the difference in the exhibition matchup.