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League: NBASport: BasketballCountry: United StatesCategory: Scores & Results

Tennessee basketball ranked ninth in USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 19, 2026, 4:27 PM

Last updated Oct 19, 2026

Tennessee basketball ranked ninth in USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll
Summary

Tennessee basketball is ranked ninth in the 2026-27 USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll, ahead of the upcoming season. The Volunteers will face Duke in their second exhibition game on Tuesday at Cameron Indoor Stadium in Durham, North Carolina. In their first exhibition game, Tennessee lost to Xavier, 86-70, prompting head coach Rick Barnes to emphasize the importance of defensive performance. Tennessee aims to improve after struggling offensively against Xavier, where they failed to respond adequately to adversity. The preseason poll reflects expectations for Tennessee as they prepare for a competitive season.

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Yahoo Sports
By the Numbers
  • •Tennessee is ranked No. 9 in the coaches poll.
  • •The Vols lost to Xavier, 86-70, in their first exhibition game.
  • •They will play Duke on October 24 in their final exhibition.
  • •Rick Barnes stresses the need for defensive improvement.
  • •Tennessee's ranking sets expectations for the upcoming season.
Latest Updates
  • 4:27 PMYahoo Sports — Tennessee basketball ranked top 10 in USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll
What they're saying
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Tennessee is ranked top 10 ahead of the 2026-27 basketball season.

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