Tennessee Faces Tough Test Against Virginia in March Madness

Vols coach Rick Barnes and players discuss the challenges of facing the Cavaliers in the NCAA Tournament's second round.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 7:08pm

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Tennessee head coach Rick Barnes and players Ja'Kobi White and Bishop Boswell spoke to the media about the team's upcoming matchup against Virginia in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. Barnes praised Virginia's well-rounded team and the challenges they present, while the players discussed the Vols' physical style of play and how it will be key against the Cavaliers. The Tennessee players also reflected on last year's tournament run and how that experience is helping them this season.

Why it matters

Tennessee and Virginia are both top-10 teams in the country, setting up a highly anticipated clash in the tournament's second round. The Vols' physical, defensive-minded style will be put to the test against a balanced Virginia squad that can hurt opponents in multiple ways. This game could come down to which team is able to impose its will and play to its strengths.

The details

Tennessee will need to find a way to slow down Virginia's sharp-shooting guard Jacari White, who is coming off a 26-point performance in the Cavaliers' first-round win. The Vols will also have to contend with Virginia's size and shot-blocking ability inside. On the other end, Tennessee will look to its quick, physical guards like Ja'Kobi White to set the tone and create opportunities in transition.

  • Tennessee and Virginia will tip off on Sunday, March 22nd at 6:10 PM Eastern Time.
  • The game will be played at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia.

The players

Rick Barnes

The head coach of the Tennessee Volunteers, who has led the team to the NCAA Tournament in 10 of his 11 seasons in Knoxville.

Ja'Kobi White

Tennessee's star guard, who had a dominant performance in the Vols' first-round win and will be key to their success against Virginia.

Bishop Boswell

A Tennessee guard who discussed the team's physical style of play and how it will be important against the Cavaliers.

Felix Okpara

A Tennessee big man who talked about the challenges of matching up with Virginia's size and physicality.

Jacari White

Virginia's sharp-shooting guard who had a breakout performance in the Cavaliers' first-round win and will be a focus for the Tennessee defense.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.