In the midst of celebrating an SEC Tournament championship game win on Sunday evening in Hoover, Tennessee Vols head coach Tony Vitello made sure his team showed respect to their opponent, the LSU Tigers.
Vitello, according to ESPN reporter Kris Budden, asked LSU to stick around after the Vols' brief on-field celebration to ensure that Tennessee's players shook hands with LSU's players.
Quick story: Vols were busy celebrating after the final out. Tony Vitello went over to LSU dugout and ask them to stick around bc he wanted to make sure his guys shook their hands. Then pulled his team over. Love the respect shown between two incredible programs. https://t.co/jwCzkSWjAW
— Kris Budden (@KrisBudden) May 27, 2024
Despite Tennessee's reputation under Vitello, the Vols play the game the right way -- with effort, passion, enthusiasm, and toughness. They also play with a chip on their shoulder -- a necessary quality in any championship squad -- which is the reason for their villainous reputation.
The truth is that Vitello routinely praises, by name, players on the opposing roster. And coaches on the other staff (sometimes). He understands the grind that it takes to make it to the collegiate level. And he recognizes elite talent when he sees it.
Vitello and his program may have a fiery, and at times seemingly combative, approach to playing the game, but they also have a healthy respect for the game and for their opponent on the other side.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!