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NCAA Basketball: Kentucky, Purdue, Wisconsin rise in latest top 25 power rankings

By Joey Loose

Nov 12, 2024; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Caleb Foster (1) is defended by Kentucky Wildcats guard Otega Oweh (00) during the second half at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
Nov 12, 2024; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Caleb Foster (1) is defended by Kentucky Wildcats guard Otega Oweh (00) during the second half at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images / Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
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9. Tennessee (3-0)

There has been plenty of activity at Tennessee in recent years, culminating in last year’s trip to the Elite Eight. This program has had legitimate talent and has been a top contender in a very strong SEC. Their defense has been the calling card, while Rick Barnes and his staff have leaned heavily on veteran transfers to figure out the offensive side in recent years. Two weeks into the season it looks like they found another hidden gem.

After an impressive road performance at Louisville, the Volunteers had it easy this week with just a single game back on Wednesday. Tennessee survived an easy challenge with a 92-57 win against Montana. Chaz Lanier had 13 points after a pair of solid performances during the opening week while fellow transfer Igor Milicic Jr. added 18 points and 10 rebounds.

Things haven’t been perfect quite yet as this new-look rotation figures things out, but Tennessee looks really good once again. The offense has been productive, with insane efficiency inside the arc, while the defense is allowing less than 60 points a game. That defense will clearly be tested by much better teams ahead, including a date with Virginia on Thursday that opens their adventure in the Bahamas.

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