Tennessee assistant basketball coach Justin Gainey addressed the media this morning following the Volunteers’ recent setback against Vanderbilt. Despite the sting of the loss, Gainey expressed confidence in his team’s resilience, lauding their competitive nature and ability to bounce back. As the Volunteers prepare for their next matchup against Mississippi State, Gainey’s remarks shed light on the mindset of a team determined to right the ship.
Tennessee’s recent defeat to in-state rival Vanderbilt was a rare blemish for a team that has been among the nation’s elite this season. The Volunteers struggled to find their rhythm offensively, and defensive lapses allowed Vanderbilt to capitalize on key opportunities. Despite the loss, Gainey emphasized that setbacks are part of the journey in college basketball, especially in a conference as competitive as the SEC.
“Our guys hate to lose, and that’s the great thing about this group,” Gainey said. “They’re the most competitive group of guys I’ve been around. They’re not taking this loss lightly, and they’re already focused on improving and moving forward.”
One of the central themes of Gainey’s comments was the team’s competitiveness. The assistant coach highlighted the players’ intense drive and refusal to accept anything less than excellence.
“This team is special because they don’t just play to win—they play to dominate,” Gainey said. “Even in practice, you can see how much it matters to them. They hold each other accountable, and that’s a huge reason why we’ve been successful this season.”
The Volunteers’ competitiveness has been evident throughout the season. Under head coach Rick Barnes, Tennessee has built a reputation for being a physical, disciplined team that thrives on defense and unselfish play. Gainey believes this mindset will serve the team well as they regroup and prepare for the challenges ahead.
Looking ahead, Tennessee will face Mississippi State in a crucial SEC matchup. Mississippi State, known for their toughness and defensive intensity, presents a unique challenge. Gainey acknowledged the Bulldogs’ strengths while expressing confidence in Tennessee’s ability to respond.
“Mississippi State is a very physical team,” Gainey said. “They rebound well, they defend well, and they’re going to make us earn everything. But I believe in our guys. We’ve already started making adjustments, and I think you’ll see a more focused team on the court.”
One of the key areas of emphasis for Tennessee heading into the game will be execution on both ends of the floor. Gainey mentioned that the coaching staff has been working with the players to address the issues that surfaced against Vanderbilt, particularly on offense.
“We’ve got to do a better job of moving the ball and creating good shots,” Gainey said. “Defensively, we need to get back to our identity—being tough, being physical, and making it difficult for the other team to score.”
For Gainey and the rest of the coaching staff, the Vanderbilt loss is viewed as an opportunity for growth. He emphasized that adversity is a natural part of the season and that how the team responds will define their character.
“In college basketball, you’re going to face tough nights,” Gainey said. “What matters is how you respond. This group has the right mindset. They’re not hanging their heads—they’re getting back to work.”
Gainey also praised the leadership within the team, pointing out how veteran players have stepped up to rally the group after the loss. “We’ve got great leaders in the locker room who set the tone. They’re the first ones to hold themselves accountable, and that’s what makes this team special.”
As the Volunteers prepare for Mississippi State, the focus remains on improvement and staying true to their identity. Gainey is confident that the team will rise to the occasion and continue to prove why they’re one of the best in the SEC.
“This group is hungry, and they’re not satisfied,” Gainey said. “They know what they’re capable of, and they’re determined to show it. I have no doubt they’ll be ready to compete.”
Tennessee fans can take comfort in Gainey’s optimism and the team’s resolve. With their competitive spirit and commitment to excellence, the Volunteers are well-positioned to bounce back and make a strong push as the season progresses.