KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (Interstat) — Two in-state programs seeking their first win of the season will meet Friday when the East Tennessee State Lady Buccaneers visit the Tennessee Lady Volunteers at Thompson-Boling Arena.

Both teams are 0-1 after suffering narrow season-opening losses earlier this week. East Tennessee State fell 65-56 in overtime to Elon on Monday. The Lady Buccaneers were led by Carmen Richardson, who scored 21 points and grabbed six rebounds.

Tennessee, playing on the road, dropped a high-scoring 80-77 contest to North Carolina State on Tuesday. Talaysia Cooper posted a near triple-double for the Lady Vols, finishing with 23 points, 11 rebounds and seven assists. Janiah Barker added 15 points.

The game represents a significant challenge for ETSU, facing a perennial power from the Southeastern Conference on its home floor. For Tennessee, it is the first of two straight in-state non-conference matchups before a daunting West Coast road trip later this month.

The Lady Volunteers hold a commanding historical advantage in the series. Tipoff is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 7, 2025.