Tennessee Ends UConn’s 18-Year Winning Streak in Rivalry Clash

No. 19 Tennessee defeated No. 5 UConn 80-76, marking their first victory over the Huskies since 2007 and reigniting the historic rivalry.

Tennessee’s Zee Spearman scored 18 points, including a pivotal basket with 12 seconds remaining, to secure the win over UConn.
The Lady Vols dominated the rebounding battle 46-34 and capitalized on a critical third-quarter scoring drought by UConn to take control of the game.
Paige Bueckers, UConn’s star guard, had an off night, scoring 14 points on 5-of-16 shooting and later attributing her struggles to being out of rhythm.
Tennessee coach Kim Caldwell, just 17 days after giving birth, led the team to this signature victory in her first season, earning widespread praise for her leadership.
The win revives Tennessee’s prominence in women’s basketball and highlights their potential heading into the postseason, while UConn faces questions about their readiness against elite competition.