Florida fights hard, but falls on No. 15 Tennessee, 86-78

Gainesville, Fla. (WCJB) Florida suffered a hard-fought defeat against Tennessee No. 15 on Sunday afternoon. Despite the defeat, the Gator exceeded the Lady Vols on the boards 47-42 and shot 46.2% from the field compared to 40.7% of Tennessee .

Florida led most of the first half and exceeded Tennessee in the first quarter with 16: 12 and in second place 21-16. However, the Lady Vols won in the third dynamic, supported by the return of its top goal scorer Talaysia Cooper, who had an impact on both ends. Tennessee exceeded the Gators in the third quarter with 37-20, their only period with a higher point overall than Florida.

Tennessee led to the last quarter and led 65-57. Florida achieved a strong comeback and lowered the deficit several times to four points, but could not overtake the Lady Vols.

Ra Shaya Kyle led the Gators with 19 points and 10 rebounds and recorded their 13th double double of the season. Liv McGill (17), Laila Reynolds (17) and Jeriah Warren (11) also contributed two digits and helped Florida's offensive efforts.

Click here To subscribe to our newsletter.

Copyright 2025 WCJB. All rights reserved.