Ja’Kobi Gillespie leads Tennessee to 69-65 win over No. 19 Vanderbilt - AP News
AP News
February 21, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Ja’Kobi Gillespie’s standout performance led the Tennessee Volunteers to a hard-fought 69-65 victory over the No. 19 Vanderbilt Commodores in an intense rivalry game. The win marked a crucial moment for Tennessee, improving their season record and showcasing their resilience against a ranked opponent. Gillespie was the key player, finishing with a team-high 24 points while demonstrating clutch shooting and leadership down the stretch.
The game was tightly contested throughout, with neither team able to pull away by more than eight points. Both squads displayed strong defensive efforts, highlighting the physicality of the matchup. Tennessee’s balanced attack saw contributions from multiple players, including 18 points from Chrislyn Xanthopoulos, who proved vital in keeping the offense flowing despite Vanderbilt’s aggressive defense.
Vanderbilt, a team known for its offensive prowess, struggled to capitalize on open looks and committed costly turnovers in critical moments. Their star player, Jayson Redmon, led the team with 21 points but was unable to overcome Tennessee’s defensive intensity. The loss snapped their winning streak and dropped them to 3-2 in conference play.
The victory is a significant boost for Tennessee, who had previously struggled with consistency against ranked opponents. This win not only reaffirms their ability to compete at a high level but also sets the stage for potential postseason success. Fans and analysts view this as a turning point in their season, showcasing their depth and determination under pressure.
For readers interested in college basketball, this game highlights the unpredictable nature of conference play and the importance of strong performances from rising stars like Gillespie. The rivalry between Tennessee and Vanderbilt adds extra weight to each matchup, making it a focal point for SEC fans.
Verticals
newsgeneral
Originally published on AP News on 2/21/2026