Lady Vols Basketball Get Everyone Involved in Win Against Auburn
The Tennessee Lady Volunteers (Lady Vols) put on an electrifying display of teamwork and unselfish basketball during their dominant victory over Auburn on February 13, 2025. From start to finish, the Lady Vols showed that basketball is not just about individual talent; it’s about playing as a cohesive unit where every player contributes to the overall success of the team. In a game that saw stellar performances from several key players, Tennessee’s depth and balanced attack ultimately led them to a commanding 89-62 victory.
This win was particularly satisfying for Tennessee, as it highlighted the team’s growing chemistry and the efforts of every player to contribute in meaningful ways. It was not just the stars who shone on the court; every player who stepped onto the floor made a difference, whether through scoring, defense, or playmaking.
Fast Start for the Lady Vols
The Lady Vols came out of the gates firing on all cylinders. They established an early lead, overwhelming Auburn with an aggressive defense that stifled the Tigers’ offense and an offense that flowed with fluidity and precision. Tennessee’s defense set the tone for the game, with aggressive ball pressure and efficient rotations. Auburn struggled to find open looks as the Lady Vols swarmed the Tigers’ ball handlers, forcing them into tough, contested shots and frequent turnovers.
On the offensive end, Tennessee showed a balanced scoring attack. They utilized quick ball movement and smart cuts to exploit Auburn’s defensive weaknesses. The Lady Vols were unselfish, constantly looking for the open player and finding ways to make the extra pass. Whether it was a sharp-shooting guard, a post player dominating the paint, or a forward knocking down mid-range jumpers, everyone contributed.
Balanced Scoring Attack
A key feature of Tennessee’s win over Auburn was the way they spread the scoring across the roster. Five Lady Vols finished in double figures, showcasing the team’s depth and versatility. This performance highlighted the coaching staff’s emphasis on balance, with each player understanding their role and executing it to perfection.
Jordan Horston, the standout senior and leader of the Lady Vols, led the charge with 21 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists. Horston’s ability to do a little bit of everything allowed her to set the tone for her teammates and ensure that Tennessee never lost its rhythm throughout the game. She also provided an emotional spark for the team, rallying them when the Tigers attempted to mount a comeback. Horston’s experience and leadership were on full display, guiding her team through a game where everyone had a part to play.
Jasmine Powell, the team’s point guard, had another solid performance with 14 points and 9 assists. Powell’s court vision was instrumental in Tennessee’s success, as she consistently found open teammates for easy baskets. Her decision-making was impeccable, and her ability to control the tempo of the game allowed the Lady Vols to settle into their rhythm early on. Powell was equally effective in transition, pushing the ball up the court to create fast-break opportunities and keep Auburn on its heels.
Tamari Key, Tennessee’s towering presence in the paint, had 12 points and 11 rebounds in a dominant performance down low. Key was a force on both ends of the floor, altering shots and securing crucial rebounds to give her team second-chance opportunities. Her rim protection was a major reason why Auburn struggled to find easy baskets inside, and her offensive rebounding kept the Lady Vols in control of the game. She was a constant presence in the paint, making it difficult for Auburn to execute their offense without interference from Key.
Za’Derria Smith and Rickea Jackson also had excellent performances, adding 16 and 15 points, respectively. Smith’s perimeter shooting was a big factor, as she knocked down a couple of crucial three-pointers to stretch Auburn’s defense and open up lanes for her teammates. Jackson, on the other hand, provided scoring from all over the court, with her ability to create her own shot and finish through contact making her a constant threat. These two players proved that Tennessee’s success is not solely reliant on their stars but that everyone is ready and capable of stepping up when needed.
Contributions from the Bench
In addition to the stellar performances from the starters, the Lady Vols’ bench also played a crucial role in the team’s success. Depth is one of Tennessee’s biggest strengths, and it was evident in this game. The reserves came in and maintained the high level of play, ensuring that there was no drop-off in intensity when the starters took their rests.
Tae’lor Lacy, one of Tennessee’s younger players, contributed 7 points and 3 assists off the bench, providing a spark for the team during a critical stretch in the second quarter. Her energy was contagious, and her defense helped keep Auburn at bay as the Lady Vols expanded their lead. Lacy’s ability to impact the game without needing to score heavily was a testament to her all-around skills.
Rae Burrell, another key contributor off the bench, added 8 points and 4 rebounds. Burrell has been an invaluable part of Tennessee’s rotation all season long, and her ability to play multiple positions allows the Lady Vols to switch up their lineup without losing effectiveness. Burrell’s versatility as a defender and a scorer makes her a valuable asset for head coach Kellie Harper as she looks to keep her team fresh and aggressive throughout the game.
The bench’s collective effort helped Tennessee maintain its tempo and sustain their dominance. The Tigers, on the other hand, simply couldn’t match the Lady Vols’ depth, as their bench struggled to contribute in the same way.
Team Defense Sets the Tone
One of the most impressive aspects of Tennessee’s win over Auburn was the team’s defense. From the opening tip, the Lady Vols were relentless on the defensive end, pressuring Auburn’s ball handlers and forcing them into tough shots. Tennessee’s full-court pressure was particularly effective in the first half, as Auburn struggled to break the press and get into their offensive sets. The Lady Vols forced 16 turnovers, many of which led to easy transition points or led to quick, contested shots from Auburn.
Horston, in particular, was a pest on defense. Her long arms and quick hands allowed her to generate steals, and her defensive awareness kept Auburn off balance all game. The Lady Vols also did an excellent job rotating and contesting shots, making sure that Auburn had few clean looks from the field.
Tennessee’s size and athleticism were also on display in the post, as Key and Burrell provided excellent rim protection and contested every shot near the basket. Auburn was forced to settle for jump shots throughout the game, and they struggled to convert those opportunities. This dominance on the defensive end ensured that Auburn could never establish any offensive rhythm.
Coaching and Game Management
Head coach Kellie Harper was strategic in her rotations and game management throughout the contest. Harper did an excellent job of keeping her players fresh, making sure that they were able to maintain their intensity on both ends of the court. Her use of the bench allowed Tennessee to continue to play at a high level without overworking her star players. By involving everyone and encouraging unselfish play, Harper has built a culture of trust within the team.
Harper’s ability to keep her team focused and disciplined, even as they built a commanding lead, was key to the victory. She made sure her players were locked in, constantly pushing them to play with effort and focus. Harper’s leadership, both on and off the court, has been a defining factor in Tennessee’s success this season.
Looking Ahead
The Lady Vols’ win over Auburn was a statement performance, showcasing their strength in numbers and highlighting the importance of playing as a cohesive unit. With the SEC tournament and NCAA tournament on the horizon, this kind of team-oriented play will be crucial for Tennessee’s championship aspirations. They have shown that they are not a one-dimensional team reliant on a few star players but a deep, balanced squad capable of competing with the best in the country.
As they move forward, the Lady Vols will look to build on this performance, continuing to refine their team chemistry and depth. If they can maintain this level of play, with everyone contributing in some way, they will be a formidable opponent in the coming weeks. With their star power, balanced scoring attack, and suffocating defense, Tennessee is primed for a deep run into the postseason.
In the end, this game was a reminder that basketball is a team sport, and when everyone gets involved, great things happen. The Lady Vols displayed the power of teamwork, proving that when all players contribute, the results can be spectacular. As they continue their march toward postseason play, this victory over Auburn will undoubtedly serve as a valuable reference point for what they can accomplish when they play together as one.