Florida defeats the final undefeated workforce, smothering first-ranked Tennessee, 73-43

Alijah Martin scored 18 factors, Denzel Aberdeen added 16 and No. 8 Florida beat Tennessee 73-43 on Tuesday evening to get rid of the final undefeated workforce in Division I basketball.

Alex Condon had 12 factors and 12 rebounds for his second double-double this season because the Gators (14-1, 1-1 Southeastern Conference) beat a No. 1 workforce for the third time at school historical past – the primary in six makes an attempt at dwelling – and prolonged their dwelling profitable streak to 16.

Florida, a 2.5-point favourite based on BetMGM Sportsbook, dominated from the beginning. The Gators scored the primary 12 factors whereas the Volunteers (14-1, 1-1) missed their first 9 pictures.

The Vols made 4 pictures within the first 20 minutes and trailed by 36 factors.

Chaz Lanier, who performed 4 seasons at North Florida earlier than signing with Tennessee, scored 10 factors on 3-of-16 taking pictures for the Vols.

Takeaway

Tennessee: One of the perfect defensive groups within the nation, the Vols have been strong on that finish of the ground. Nearly each discipline aim Florida made was contested. The offensive finish was a special story.

Florida: The Gators received one factor improper: They bought scholar tickets to the general public as a part of a three-game trip bundle. Police needed to escort dozens of offended college students out of their standard courtside seats earlier than tip-off.

Key second

Aberdeen and Will Richard hit back-to-back 3-pointers halfway by means of the primary half, turning a six-point lead right into a 13-point benefit and sending the house crowd right into a frenzy.

Key statistic

After permitting Kentucky to make 14 3-pointers in a 106-100 loss final week, the Gators held the Vols to 4-of-29 from behind the arc.

Next

Tennessee performs at Texas on Saturday. Florida will play Arkansas later that night.

Associated Press reporting.

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