University of Tennessee Athletics

Buzz Peterson Weekly Press Conference
February 16, 2004 | Men's Basketball
Feb. 16, 2004
Comments from Tennessee head coach Buzz Peterson from Monday's weekly press luncheon prior to Wednesday's game against Mississippi (7:30 p.m.-EST).
BUZZ PRESS LUNCHEON |
VIDEO
TENNESSEE VS. OLE MISS PREVIEW
1. Explain, after leading at the half at Alabama, what the Vols need to do to close out the victory when they are playing away from home.
A - "We need to be mentally tougher in the second half. Sometimes we lose our focus on the defensive end if we get tired. It's carried over some to the offense as well. We need to dig in a little bit harder and pull out the win."
2. In what areas has Major Wingate progressed to the point he is now a starting front-line player for the Vols?
A - "Major plays good, solid defense, using that big body to advantage. We like to start him because of his defense. And Jemere Hendrix gives us some intensity coming off the bench."
3. How much of a motivating force is preparing for tournament play as the regular season winds down?
A - "It's very motivating. With three weeks to go, we need to get better in every way. If we don't let up and we get better, some good things will happen at tournament time."
4. Tell about the offensive weapons Ole Miss will bring to Thompson-Boling Arena for Wednesday night's game with the Vols.
A - "Aaron Harper and Justin Reed are very good players, getting more than half the Ole Miss points between them. We need to get after them on the catch and keep them below their average. One thing about the Rebels is they play hard all the way."