Rodney Terry, Texas’ head coach, were on the same staff at Texas for many years. Terry worked under Barnes, so there will be some emotion coming from each bench looking to represent their coach on the court.
Josiah-Jordan James understands Barnes’ relationship with Texas and what this game could mean to him and the players. I’m sure the feeling is similar in the Texas locker room, with players wanting to get the win for their coach, knowing the circumstances Barnes and Terry face.
Barnes highlighted the Vols’ focus coming off two straight losses, “Proud of our guys’ focus tonight. They knew what they needed to do. Proud of how our guys prepared and competed on defense.”
It’s going to be pivotal for Tennessee to continue preparing, as every game will be the last game of the season because they never know when their last game will be, given the chaos of March Madness.
In the Vols win, Tobe Awaka suffered a minor injury before returning to the court later in the second half. Barnes said, “Awaka felt something in his right leg near the hip, and he’s fine.”
Reporters also asked Barnes about his upcoming matchup against Texas, where he spent 17 years of his career. Barnes said, “It’s not easy or fun to face people who have done so much for you in your career.”
“I have friends in Texas that will be dear friends until the day I die. I’ll always be grateful for them. But I’ve been gone nine years,” Barnes said postgame. “I’m a Tennessee Volunteer, and I thank the Lord for that blessing.”
He and Rodney Terry, Texas’ head coach, were on the same staff at Texas for many years. Terry worked under Barnes, so there will be some emotion coming from each bench looking to represent their coach on the court.
Josiah-Jordan James understands Barnes’ relationship with Texas and what this game could mean to him and the players. I’m sure the feeling is similar in the Texas locker room, with players wanting to get the win for their coach, knowing the circumstances Barnes and Terry face.
