"Who have y'all played?": Fans unimpressed despite Tennessee's men and women's teams staying undefeated 

NCAA Basketball: Norfolk State at Tennessee - Source: Imagn
NCAA Basketball: Tennessee's Chaz Lanier - Source: Image via Imagn

Tennessee’s men’s and women’s basketball teams have tipped off their seasons with undefeated records, but not everyone is convinced the Volunteers and Lady Volunteers are true contenders. Fans and critics alike have questioned the strength of their schedules, leading to a backlash about whether these records reflect genuine dominance.

On Instagram on Tuesday, the SEC Network posted a carousel showcasing Tennessee’s combined record 25-0 record from the men’s (13-0) and women’s (12-0) teams.

Despite the achievement, some fans expressed skepticism.

"AGAIN WHO HAVE YALL PLAYED" a fan commented.
A fan comments on an Instagram post about the Tennessee Volunteers.
A fan comments on an Instagram post about the Tennessee Volunteers.

Critics point out that many of the opponents have been midmajor programs or teams outside the Top 25, leaving some to wonder how the teams will fare against elite competition later in the season.

Other fans share their thoughts on Tennesse's record
Other fans share their thoughts on Tennesse's record

The top-ranked Tennessee men, led by Rick Barnes, have opened the season with a perfect record. Anchored by strong performances from veteran players Chaz Lanier, Igor Milicic Jr. and Zakai Zeigler, the Volunteers have shown their dominance on the court. UT's best win was 77-62 over the then-No. 13 Baylor Bears on Nov. 22.

Similarly, the 15th-ranked Tennessee women, coached by Kim Caldwell, have showcased remarkable teamwork and skill, with Talaysia Cooper leading the Lady Volunteers in points (18.1) and steals (3.3). Their best win was 78-68 over the then-No. 17 Iowa Hawkeyes on Dec. 7.

Tennessee’s Chaz Lanier praises team effort and Zeigler's performance after dominant win

Following a strong team performance, Tennessee guard Chaz Lanier shared insights into the Volunteer’s work ethic and the pivotal role of teammate Zakai Zeigler. The Volunteers secured a commanding 67-52 win over Norfolk State on Tuesday.

“Day in, day out, I practice; we go all out in practice,” Lanier said. “Coach pushes us hard, and it was an overall great game.”

Lanier didn’t hold back in praising Zakai Zeigler, a standout guard who played a crucial role in the game.

“He’s just a special player on and off the court; he’s just a great dude,” Lanier said. “He makes it so much easier for all of us. We just get to our spots, and he finds us.”

Zeigler’s ability to read the game and distribute the ball was on full display, as he orchestrated the offense with precision and poise. Zeigler finished with 10 points, six assists, two steals and rebounds, while Chaz Tanier finished with a game-high 24 points, two assists and rebounds, shooting 44.4%.

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Edited by Joseph Schiefelbein
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