Louisiana's Ragin' Cajun basketball team battled #6 Tennessee in Knoxville on Friday night, falling to the Volunteers 87-65.

Tennessee went on a 20-4 run midway through the 1st half, fueled by 10 Cajun turnovers.

"We did not play well tonight," said Ragin' Cajun head coach Bob Marlin. "I told (Tennesse head coach) Rick (Barnes) afterwards I was disappointed we didn't give them a better game."

After halftime the Cajuns played better, only turning it over twice in the second frame, but the large deficit and poor shot selection by Louisiana was too much as the Vols were able to cruise in the second half with a big lead.

Louisiana was led in scoring by JaKeenan Gant's 18 points, while Marcus Stroman added 11 and Justin Miller scored 10 off the bench.

Tennessee forward Grant Williams led all scorers with 31. All 5 Volunteer starters reached double figures.

"We've got a chance to regroup and prepare for an even bigger challenge next week according to the polls," said Marlin.

Things don't get easier for the Cajuns (1-1) in their next matchup as they travel to battle #1 Kansas next Friday night at 7:00.

"I think our guys will be ready," explained Marlin. "And I think our seniors will be ready. They were disappointed by tonight's performance."

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