Tennessee's last non-conference game before SEC play begins next Wednesday can hardly be called a tune up. The Vols welcome cross-state rival Memphis to town tonight in a match-up that's significant not just because it's the last scheduled meeting for the time being in what's been a heated series, it's also a game both teams badly need before tackling conference play.

It wasn't smooth sailing for Tennessee (8-3) out of the gate in November, but the Vols have largely righted the ship during a long December home stand, stringing together four straight wins, including a 69-60 victory over then No. 23 Wichita State.

Tennessee hasn't exactly 'coasted' all the way through the four game win-streak. The Vols allowed Western Carolina to hang around for a good portion of the game and were seriously pushed last Saturday against Xavier before escaping with a 51-47 win.

Memphis (7-3) is no longer ranked after starting off the season in the top-10, but the Tigers do qualify as a 'name-opponent.' If Tennessee can get it tonight, it would be the kind of win that would look good in on an NCAA Tournament resume.


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