University of Tennessee Athletics
Interview of Coach Pearl Before Legends Classic
November 12, 2007 | Men's Basketball
1. Explain the format of the Legends Classic, which opens at home with games Wednesday and Friday.
A - "The NCAA in their infinite wisdom lets us play in these exempt tournaments, which means a few extra games. We were assigned our opponents by the Legends Classic. The teams are good enough to challenge us. Regardless, of the games' outcomes, we will advance to New Jersey for the rest of the tournament."
2. How will the return to action of Duke Crews affect the Vols as they open the Legends Classic?
A - "Duke starts practicing today. I doubt if he can do more than provide depth at this time."
3. Explain how the Vols can improve their intensity and toughness, elements you said have been lacking.
A - "I think we made progress against Temple. We wouldn't have beaten Temple the way we did without our defense. We ground it out defensively. I want more of that kind of play."
4. Tell about Arkansas-Monticello, which comes here Wednesday (7:30E) for the Legends Classic.
A - "Mike Newell has been around a long time. They are multiple and complicated and tricky on defense. They do some interesting things."
5. What do you expect from Prairie View A&M in another Legends Classic game here Friday (7:30E)?
A - "They are very athletic. They have been a team that traditionally likes to run. It could be high scoring Friday night."
