Vanderbilt’s college basketball game against Tennessee took place in Nashville on Saturday. Even though it was played at the Commodores’ home gym, it was an away game. The Vols took over.
Both in-state rivals are on very trajectories this season. Fifth-ranked Tennessee moved to 15-4 with a win over 5-14 Vanderbilt.
Jerry Stackhouse’s job security continues to diminish with each loss. His future as head coach of the Dores is in jeopardy, although he might somehow keep his job because it is unclear as to who else the school could hire that would be considered “better.”
Either way, fans are embarrassed to be associated with the two-time NBA All-Star’s team. Multiple people wore bags over their heads before, during and after the loss to the Volunteers.
Although the home crowd was disappointed by the 13-point defeat, Memorial Gymnasium was fired up about the result. Tennessee fans far outnumbered Vanderbilt for a heated rivalry game that typically draws massive support from the black and gold, regardless of record.
Any empty seats prior to tipoff were filled with orange once the game got underway.
Even head football coach Josh Heupel was in the house.
The Volunteers’ star point guard had high praise for the support after the victory.
I wouldn’t even say it was a road game. Honestly, it was a home game.
I can’t put it no other way.
— Zakai Zeigler
He’s right. It was an embarrassing showing from Commodores fans and it was likely intended to send a message to the administration about their desire for Stackhouse to be let go.
The sparse attendance forced the home side to scramble. Tennessee fans broke out into a rousing rendition of ‘Rocky Top‘ that was so loud it could be heard on the T.V. broadcast at home.
Vanderbilt tried to save face by trying to drown them out.
It doesn’t get much worse than having an away crowd sing their fight song at your home gym. Stackhouse’s seat is SCORCHING!