After losing their original opponent in FAMU to a season opt-out because of the COVID-19 concerns. The Tennessee Lady Vols took the floor on Saturday afternoon against Western Kentucky; under second-year head coach Kellie Harper. The Lady Vols look to return to dominance after starting the season unranked for the second year in a row. Let’s look at how Burrell showcases her skills in the Lady Vols victory.
As expected, early both teams started the game very rusty which set up for a very sloppy first quarter; despite turnovers and a three-minute scoring drought, Tennessee would outscore Western Kentucky in the first quarter 13-17.
By the second quarter, Tennessee seemed to have settled down as their defensive pressure forced Western Kentucky to commit eight turnovers in the quarter. Tennessee would go on a 12-2 run in the second quarter to grant them an 18 point halftime lead.
Continuing their dominant performance in the third and fourth quarter; Tennessee was able to take complete control over the game to give them a 40 point win.
Burrell, Walker, Salary, and Suárez score big for the Lady Vols
A big bright spot for the Tennessee Lady Vols during this game was junior guard Rae Burrell. The junior guard who in decision-making last year often led to turnovers; focused on her decision-making, playmaking, and basketball IQ. Burrell would end the game leading Tennessee in scoring with 18 points. And a career-high of 7 assists which again led all players.
Contributions from newcomers guard Marta Suárez and Destiny Salary would too help the lady vols to secure the win. Suárez in her debut would close the game with 11PTS, 6RBS, and 4 ASSTS. While Salary who was also making her college debut finished with 10PTS and 6RBS; while going 4-7 from the floor and 2-4 from the 3.
Also making her first appearance was transfer guard Jordan Walker; who transferred from Western Michigan scored in double figures in the victory finishing with 13 points, 2 rebounds, and 4 assists.
Tennessee will look to secure their second win of the season on Dec. 1st against East Tennessee State.
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