By Gage Miller
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — In their first SEC match of the season, the Lady Vols controlled every key stretch, sweeping the Bulldogs 25-18, 25-23, 25-20 at Food City Center to open conference play in style and extend their home winning streak.
The victory pushed Tennessee to 10-1 overall and 1-0 in the conference, showcasing the balance and depth that have defined the Vols’ early-season surge.
How It Happened
Tennessee wasted no time establishing momentum. The Lady Vols hit .333 in the opening set, spreading the offense to every corner of the court and not allowing UGA to take the lead. Precise passing allowed setter Caroline Kerr to keep Georgia guessing, and a late run turned a tight frame into a commanding 25-18 finish.
The Bulldogs regrouped in the second set, finding more consistency on serve receive to build an 18–16 lead. The lead changed four times in this set and had fans on their feet, cheering for the Lady Vols.
Tennessee’s defense stiffened when it mattered most. A combination of well-timed blocks and digs slowed Georgia’s attack, and a pair of clutch service aces fueled the match to end after the back-and-forth battle.
“If we can break that level every game,” said Kerr. “We are going to be a very good team and hard to beat.”
By the third set, Tennessee’s rhythm was undeniable. The Vols trailed only once, Outside hitters hammered through seams in the Bulldogs’ block, and the backcourt kept rallies alive with scrappy defense. A late Georgia push cut the lead to two, but the Lady Vols stayed composed, closing it out 25-20.
“The belief they have in themselves is amazing to watch,” said Head Coach Eve Rackham after the sweep, pointing to the confidence that carried Tennessee through the closing moments of each set.
What’s Next
“We get to enjoy this one for a couple of hours and then it’s back to work,” Rackham Watt said.
The Lady Vols now turn their focus to a Friday night showdown with South Carolina at Food City Center, looking to maintain their perfect conference record and extend their home dominance.