Lady Vols Basketball Steals Second-Round Win on the Road Against Ohio State
In a thrilling and hard-fought contest, the University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers basketball team secured a huge second-round victory against the Ohio State Buckeyes, clinching their spot in the 2025 NCAA Tournament Sweet 16. Despite facing the challenge of playing on the road in a hostile environment, Tennessee remained poised and composed, executing a game plan that allowed them to overcome Ohio State’s fierce defense and high-scoring offense. The Lady Vols’ 74-71 victory was not only a testament to their skill and resilience but also a significant step in their quest to make another deep run in the tournament.
This win means that Tennessee’s women’s team will join the men’s team in the Sweet 16, marking an exciting milestone for the University of Tennessee basketball program. Both teams have shown the ability to compete with the best in the nation, and fans are now eagerly anticipating what’s to come as both teams continue their tournament journeys.
A Nail-Biting Second Round
The game against Ohio State was a thriller from start to finish, with both teams going back and forth in a high-intensity contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats. From the tip-off, it was clear that this would be no easy win for the Lady Vols. Ohio State, a tough No. 2 seed, had been one of the most consistent teams in the country throughout the season. With their formidable defense and offensive firepower, the Buckeyes were expected to be a serious challenge for Tennessee.
However, the Lady Vols were undeterred, sticking to their game plan and executing when it mattered most. The game saw numerous lead changes, and with less than a minute remaining, the score was tied at 71-71. This was where Tennessee’s poise under pressure really shined. In the final seconds, Jordan Horston, the senior guard and leader of the Lady Vols, came up with a clutch shot—a smooth mid-range jumper that gave Tennessee a 73-71 lead with just 10 seconds left.
Ohio State had one final possession to tie or win the game, but Tennessee’s defense held strong. Tamari Key, the dominant 6-foot-6 center, altered a crucial shot attempt in the paint, ensuring that the Buckeyes’ final effort came up short. Sara Puckett sealed the win with a free throw in the closing moments, and the Lady Vols walked away with a 74-71 victory, securing their spot in the Sweet 16.
Key Factors in the Lady Vols’ Victory
Several key factors contributed to Tennessee’s narrow but impressive win against Ohio State. Here’s a breakdown of what went right for the Lady Vols in this critical second-round matchup:
1. Clutch Play from Jordan Horston
As one of the most experienced players on the team, Jordan Horston came through when her team needed her most. Horston finished the game with 22 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists, but it was her composed, clutch shot in the final minute that truly made the difference. She took over the game in crucial moments, showcasing her leadership and offensive versatility.
Throughout the game, Horston’s ability to score in different ways—whether driving to the basket, hitting pull-up jumpers, or distributing the ball—kept Ohio State on their toes. Her playmaking ability and leadership have been defining characteristics of her career, and in this game, she demonstrated why she is one of the best players in the country.
2. Tamari Key’s Impact on Defense and Rebounding
While Tennessee’s offense was crucial in this game, it was their defense—anchored by Tamari Key—that played an equally important role. Key was a force in the paint, not only contributing 12 points but also dominating the glass, pulling down 14 rebounds. Her presence in the middle allowed Tennessee to control the boards, limiting Ohio State’s second-chance opportunities and altering multiple shot attempts in the paint.
Key’s ability to protect the rim also played a pivotal role in neutralizing Ohio State’s inside game, particularly in the second half. As one of the top shot blockers in the nation, her defensive contributions were invaluable in maintaining Tennessee’s narrow lead down the stretch.
3. Balanced Scoring from the Lady Vols
Another factor in Tennessee’s success was their balanced scoring attack. While Horston was the standout player, several others made important contributions, ensuring that Ohio State could not focus solely on stopping one player. Rae Burrell added 14 points and 5 rebounds, providing Tennessee with an additional scoring option on the wing. Jade Williams contributed 10 points and 7 rebounds, while Makaiya Brooks provided a spark off the bench with 9 points.
This depth allowed the Lady Vols to sustain their offense throughout the game, even when Ohio State tried to stifle Horston’s impact. The Lady Vols’ ability to rely on multiple players to contribute in key moments proved to be the difference in this close contest.
4. Tennessee’s Poise in the Final Moments
Perhaps the most impressive aspect of Tennessee’s victory was their ability to maintain composure in the face of Ohio State’s late-game pressure. The Buckeyes, known for their fast-paced offense and tough defense, had the momentum heading into the final minutes, but Tennessee never panicked. They executed their plays with precision, and their defense held firm when it mattered most.
Tennessee’s mental toughness was exemplified by their defensive stop in the final seconds. With Ohio State pushing for a last-ditch effort to win, Jordan Horston and Tamari Key helped disrupt the Buckeyes’ offensive set. The Lady Vols were able to force Ohio State into a contested shot that missed, allowing them to secure the ball and seal the game.
The Significance of the Win
This victory is significant for several reasons. First, it sends the Lady Vols to their sixth Sweet 16 appearance in the last decade, underscoring the program’s consistent excellence under head coach Kellie Harper. In just her fifth season at the helm, Harper has turned Tennessee into one of the top teams in the country, and this win further solidifies her leadership. The Lady Vols are poised to make a run at a national championship, and this victory is another step in that direction.
Second, Tennessee’s win is a testament to the strength and depth of their roster. With key contributions from both veterans and underclassmen, the Lady Vols have shown that they are a well-rounded team capable of competing with any opponent. Whether it’s Horston’s clutch shot-making or Key’s dominance in the paint, Tennessee has proven they are ready to face the best the tournament has to offer.
Looking Ahead: The Sweet 16 and Beyond
The Lady Vols now move on to the Sweet 16, where they will face another top-tier opponent in a bid to continue their championship push. With a talented roster, great coaching, and a strong team mentality, Tennessee will be a formidable opponent for anyone in the tournament. Their win over Ohio State only further boosts their confidence as they look ahead to the next challenge.
As both Tennessee’s men’s and women’s teams continue their respective tournament runs, fans can be excited about the possibility of a historic double Sweet 16 appearance. Both teams have shown they can compete with the best, and the Lady Vols’ victory over Ohio State serves as proof that they are more than capable of going deep into the tournament.
the Lady Vols’ second-round win on the road against Ohio State was a monumental victory for the program. It not only secured their spot in the Sweet 16 but also highlighted the heart, skill, and resilience of this talented team. As they continue their march toward a potential national championship, the Lady Vols will carry the momentum from this hard-fought win and look to build on their success in the coming rounds. With their eyes set on the ultimate prize, Tennessee is ready for whatever comes next in their quest to make history.