The Tennessee Volunteers went into Nashville on Saturday and escaped with a 13-point win. The Vols were led by Dalton Knecht, who once again eclipsed the 30-point mark. Big man Jonas Aidoo added 9 points and 10 rebounds, Santiago Vescovi had 12 points and 5 rebounds, and Jordan Gainey added 10 points off the bench.

Knecht continues to show why he deserves consideration for the Naismith Award. The star transfer now has as many 30-point games in one season as the Vols had in the previous 5 seasons combined.

What we’re seeing from Knecht is not normal. The Vols under Rick Barnes have been a defensive team that never relies too much on one player. With Knecht, the Vols have a player who is capable of exploding at any time.

Josiah Jordan-James continues to struggle. The senior once again was a non-factor on offense and failed to score a point. Last year, the struggles of Vescovi and JJJ would’ve been a disaster. However, this season, the Vols have Knecht to bail them out when things get tough. This has the potential to be a special season in Knoxville.

The Vols now return home and will welcome in the South Carolina Gamecocks on Tuesday night.