In a thrilling Elite Eight matchup, the Tennessee Volunteers fell short against the Purdue Boilermakers, who advanced to the Final Four for the first time since 1980. The game was a classic showdown with Purdue’s 7-foot-4 senior center, Zach Edey, dominating with an impressive 40 points and 16 rebounds. Tennessee’s senior wing, Dalton Knecht, tried to keep his team in the game with 37 points, but went cold from outside late in the game.
Purdue guard Lance Jones made a crucial 3-pointer to put the Boilermakers ahead 66-60 in a game filled with multiple lead changes. Tennessee managed to take the lead at times, but Purdue rallied back each time, ultimately emerging victorious with key plays down the stretch. Tennessee faced foul trouble with several players picking up multiple fouls in the second half, hindering their chances of a comeback.
One of the defining moments of the game was Edey’s defensive block on Knecht, solidifying Purdue’s win and securing their spot in the Final Four. Purdue will now await the winner of the Duke and N.C. State matchup to see who they will face in Glendale, Arizona. Meanwhile, Tennessee and head coach Rick Barnes will continue their quest for their first ever Final Four appearance in program history. Stay tuned to Forever Sports Online for more updates on March Madness and the road to the championship.
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