Zakai Zeigler says Tennessee can beat 'anybody in the country'

No. 10 Tennessee picked up a much-needed 68-59 win over No. 1 Alabama on Wednesday night. Considering the Volunteer’s recent skid, this was one where they had the opportunity to prove themselves again and they answered the bell against the Tide.

Now, if nothing else, Zakai Zeigler said their performances reminded everyone what he and his teammates are capable of. He says they can knock off anybody when they’re clicking on all cylinders.

“We feel like we can beat anybody in the country on any given day. Because we have the number one defense in the country. We can travel with that all over,” said Zeigler after the victory. “No matter if we’re making shots or whether we’re not…We know we have that next-man-up mentality. And whoever steps up to that plate we know is going to be ready.”

Tennessee and Alabama traded blows most of the night. Overall, though, the Vols were in command most of the way, specifically the last 15 minutes of the game. That’s because, as Zeigler pointed out, their defense went to work yet again.

After giving up too many points recently, they held the Tide to their worst offensive outing with just 59 points. They got them to play their style of basketball during the course of the game in Knoxville. In the end, that led to a 35.4% shooting night from the field, a 37.5% mark from distance, and 19 turnovers.

This win is even more impressive considering the absence of two key pieces in Julian Phillips and Josiah-Jordan James. Still, getting this job done without them continues to speak volumes about Tennessee’s depth and ability to battle regardless of the situation. Pair that with their lockdown defense and you can see why Wednesday’s win set the record straight about how good the Volunteers could be come March.