Tennessee had one of the worst first halves in the 2025 NCAA tournament in Sunday’s Elite Eight matchup against Houston.
The No. 2 Volunteers were 6-of-28 from the field and a staggering 1-of-15 from the 3-point line as they trailed the No. 1 Cougars 34-15 at the break. It was a miserable offensive performance for a team that’s typically one of the most efficient offensive teams in the country.
Both teams’ offensive efficiency was expected to be challenged by the other’s defense entering Sunday’s contest. Both Tennessee and Houston are two of the best defensive teams in college basketball.