Jaden Springer powers Tennessee to win over Georgia

In a replacement game, the 16th ranked Tennessee Volunteers (13-4, 6-4) welcomed the Georgia Bulldogs (12-6, 5-6) Wednesday night at Thompson-Boling Arena.

A quick start on the offensive side of the ball saw Tennessee jump out to an early lead, shooting 55.2 percent from the field in the first half and 53.3 percent from three point land. Conversely, Georgia only shot 34.5 percent from the field and and 30 percent from three.

The Bulldogs outrebounded the Volunteers in the first half, but only by the slimmest of margins: 17-16. Tennessee, on the other hand, forced 11 turnovers, seven of which were thanks to steals.

Jaden Springer, five-of-six from the field, led the way in the points department at half, picking up 12. Santiago Vescovi also contributed double digit points, as well, totaling 11 before the game broke for half.

Heading into the second half, Tennessee was looking to groom its large 44-26 lead. Georgia wouldn’t quietly, though, putting up a fight over the next 20 minutes, with Tennessee ultimately edging the Bulldogs, 89-81.

Georgia outscored Tennessee by 10 points in the second half but it wouldn’t be enough.

Vescovi finished with 19 points, Josiah-Jordan James had 18, Keon Johnson had 11, and Jaden Springer led all scorers with 30. K.D. Johnson had the highest point total for the Bulldogs, finishing with 22. Toumani Camara and Sahvir Wheeler also contributed double digit scoring, posting 14 and 11, respectively.

The Volunteers ultimately finished 51.9 percent from the field and 41.7 percent from three.

Tennessee hits the floor again Saturday afternoon, when they head to Baton Rouge to face the LSU Tigers (11-6, 6-4). A strong offensive showing Wednesday night was hopefully another showcase for what’s to come as the regular season wraps up and before play in the SEC tournament and NCAA tournament begin.