University of Tennessee Athletics
Peterson Q&A - UT-Chattanooga
November 30, 2004 | Men's Basketball
Nov. 30, 2004
INTERVIEW OF COACH Buzz Peterson BEFORE HOME GAME WITH UT-CHATTANOOGA SUNDAY
1. In addition to facing tough competition, what benefits did the Vols derive from playing games on three consecutive days in Maui?
A - "Three consecutive days of playing is something you need to be ready for in the conference tournament. We went up against some of the best teams in the country - Stanford one of the most difficult teams you will meet defensively, North Carolina a team with great speed and Texas, a strong, physical team. We need to use our Maui experience as a measuring stick of where we need to improve."
2. After the Maui trip, where specifically do you feel the Vols need to bear down to improve their play?
A - "We've got to have an inside game. There was too much pressure placed on himself by Brandon Crump on the trip. We've got to get Andre Patterson involved inside. We need some post presence."
3. What are your impressions of the freshmen following their initial experience against varsity competition?
A - "I thought they were excellent. Chris Lofton did a great job against North Carolina. They can all shoot, but they need to know what else we do offensively and then they need also to play solid defense. They sometimes struggle on defense, but as the season goes along, they'll get much better."
4. After two exhibition games and three regular-season contests, comment on the Vols' ability as marksmen.
A - "We've shown we can shoot. Now we need to work on shot selection and being particular where our shots come from and how they affect timing in relation to the shot clock."
5. How will playing UT-Chattanooga help prepare the Vols for the rest of their pre-New Year's schedule?
A - "Chattanooga's a very good team. They have good athletes and good coaching. They have plenty of tradition. Chattanooga will be fired up facing a state school, and we need to match their intensity."
