**Tennessee’s Rick Barnes, Jordan Gainey, and Cade Phillips Reflect on Victory Over Norfolk State**
The Tennessee Volunteers showed their dominance on the court with a decisive win over Norfolk State, and the post-game reactions from head coach Rick Barnes and standout players Jordan Gainey and Cade Phillips gave fans a glimpse into the mindset fueling their success.
Rick Barnes, known for his calm and strategic approach, praised the team’s defensive intensity and teamwork. “We came in with a game plan, and the guys executed it well. Norfolk State is a tough team, but we stayed disciplined,” Barnes shared during the post-game press conference. He also highlighted the importance of maintaining focus as the season progresses, emphasizing, “This win is great, but we have bigger goals ahead.”
Jordan Gainey, one of the key contributors to the game, expressed his excitement about the team’s performance. Gainey, who delivered crucial plays during pivotal moments, credited the victory to collective effort. “Everyone stepped up tonight. From the starters to the bench, we all played our roles,” he said. Gainey also reflected on the energy in the arena, noting how the crowd’s support added fuel to their fire.
Freshman Cade Phillips, who continues to impress with his maturity and athleticism, shared his perspective on being part of a high-performing team. “It’s a dream come true to contribute to wins like this,” Phillips said. He also acknowledged the guidance of the coaching staff and his teammates in helping him transition smoothly into college basketball.
As the Volunteers celebrate this victory, they remain focused on the challenges ahead. Fans are already buzzing about what’s next for this talented squad, whose chemistry and determination seem to grow with every game. With Rick Barnes at the helm and players like Gainey and Phillips stepping up, Tennessee’s basketball program is poised for an exciting season.
