Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Tennessee basketball begins 2026-27 season preparations with first practice

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 23, 2026, 9:09 AM

Last updated Sep 23, 2026

Tennessee basketball begins 2026-27 season preparations with first practice

Summary

Tennessee basketball held its first practice for the 2026-27 season on September 22 at Pratt Pavilion. The team features 13 new players, including Vanderbilt transfer Jalen Washington. Washington's eligibility remains uncertain as he pursues a lawsuit against the NCAA. Coach Rick Barnes aims to integrate the new talent and prepare for a faster-paced style of play, which has not been seen before under his tenure. The Vols are focusing on developing their roster, especially in the backcourt, to ensure effective scoring and playmaking.

Source Links

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Status Watch

•Tennessee practices began September 22 with 13 new roster additions.
•Jalen Washington's eligibility is in question due to an ongoing NCAA lawsuit.
•The team is shifting to a faster pace in practice drills.
•Barnes emphasizes developing players in key positions, including the backcourt.
•The Vols ranked among the top-100 in tempo only twice since 2015.

Latest Updates

9:09 AMYahoo Sports — What we learned from Tennessee basketball's first practice of 2026-27 season

What they're saying

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Tennessee basketball began preseason practices on Sept. 22 with 13 new players on the roster, including Vanderbilt transfer Jalen Washington.
— Yahoo Sports

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