**Lady Vols Secure First Victory Over UConn Since 2007**

In a thrilling encounter on February 6, 2025, the No. 19 Tennessee Lady Volunteers achieved a landmark victory by defeating the No. 5 UConn Huskies, 80-76, at the Food City Center in Knoxville. This win marked Tennessee’s first triumph over UConn since 2007, ending a four-game losing streak in the series. citeturn0search6

The game was a showcase of determination and skill from both teams. Junior forward Zee Spearman led the Lady Vols with 16 points, shooting an impressive 6-of-9 from the field. Her crucial layup, assisted by Talaysia Cooper with just 12 seconds remaining, effectively sealed the victory for Tennessee. Senior guard Samara Spencer contributed 14 points, while fifth-year guard Jewel Spear and Cooper added 12 and 11 points, respectively. Cooper also led the team in rebounds, securing eight boards and dishing out four assists. citeturn0search6

The Lady Vols’ dominance on the glass was evident, as they outrebounded the Huskies 46-34, including a 17-13 advantage on the offensive boards. This aggressive rebounding played a pivotal role in their victory. citeturn0search6

UConn, entering the game with a 21-2 record, faced a formidable opponent in Tennessee. Freshman forward Sarah Strong led the Huskies with 18 points, while star guard Paige Bueckers added 14 points. Despite their efforts, UConn struggled to contain Tennessee’s offensive surges, particularly in the second half. citeturn0search6

The game began with both teams exchanging leads. Tennessee quickly jumped ahead 4-0, but UConn responded, and the first quarter ended with the Huskies leading 19-17. The second quarter saw UConn extend their lead to seven points, but the Lady Vols closed the gap, trailing by just two points, 39-37, at halftime. citeturn0search6

The third quarter was pivotal for Tennessee. After UConn increased its lead to six, the Lady Vols went on a scoring run, tying the game at 45 and then taking a nine-point lead, 54-45, with 4:19 remaining in the quarter. UConn managed to reduce the deficit to two points, but a three-pointer by Spencer ensured Tennessee held a 59-54 advantage going into the final quarter. citeturn0search6

In the fourth quarter, UConn fought back, tying the game at 74 with just over two minutes remaining. However, the Lady Vols remained composed. Spearman’s layup with 1:41 left gave Tennessee a 76-74 lead, and Cooper’s free throws extended it to 78-74. Despite UConn’s efforts, Tennessee maintained their lead, with Spearman’s final layup securing the 80-76 victory. citeturn0search6

This victory is significant for Tennessee, not only ending a long-standing losing streak against UConn but also marking their first win over a top-five team at home since defeating No. 2 South Carolina in 2021. Head coach Kim Caldwell, in her debut season, secured a signature win that could signal a resurgence for the Lady Vols. citeturn0search6

For UConn, the loss highlighted areas needing improvement as they aim for postseason success. The Huskies will need to address their rebounding and defensive strategies to contend with top-tier teams moving forward.

The game was a testament to the enduring rivalry between Tennessee and UConn, showcasing high-level women’s basketball and the competitive spirit of both programs.

For a detailed breakdown of the game, you can watch the highlights here:

videoLady Vols beat UConn for biggest win since their last national titleturn0search3