The University of Tennessee Volunteers basketball program has been one of the most successful programs in the Southeastern Conference for decades. The Volunteers have been to the NCAA tournament seven times since 2007, and have advanced to the Sweet Sixteen four times and the Elite Eight twice during that time. But the question remains, is Tennessee a Final Four team?
Tennessee’s Recent Success
The Volunteers have seen much success in the past few years, including a Sweet Sixteen appearance in the 2018-19 season. That year, the Vols were led by their star guard Grant Williams and forward Admiral Schofield. Tennessee finished with a record of 31-6, and were ranked as high as 5th in the AP Poll.
Key Personnel
The Volunteers have a talented roster led by their two returning starters, forward John Fulkerson and guard Josiah-Jordan James. Fulkerson is a versatile forward who can score both inside and out, while James is a reliable point guard who can run the offense and hit open shots. They are joined by newcomers Santiago Vescovi and Victor Bailey Jr, both of whom have the potential to make an immediate impact.
Experience
The Volunteers have a veteran team, with four seniors, three juniors, and two sophomores on the roster. This experience will be key for the Volunteers as they look to make a deep run in the NCAA tournament. Senior guard Lamonte Turner is the leader of this team, and his experience will be invaluable as the Vols make their run.
Depth
The Volunteers have a deep roster, with 10 players averaging double-digit minutes per game. Tennessee’s bench is led by sophomore forward Yves Pons and junior guard Victor Bailey Jr. Pons is a defensive specialist who can guard multiple positions, while Bailey is a combo guard who can hit shots from the perimeter and create off the dribble.
Weaknesses
Despite the Volunteers’ talent and experience, there are still some weaknesses that could prevent them from making a deep tournament run. Tennessee struggles with rebounding, and their lack of size could be an issue against larger teams. The Volunteers also struggle to score in the half-court, which could be an issue against teams who can slow down the pace of the game.
Schedule
The Volunteers have a relatively difficult schedule, with games against SEC foes Kentucky, LSU, and Auburn. They also have non-conference games against Memphis, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. These games will be key for the Volunteers as they look to build their resume and prove that they are a Final Four team.
NCAA Tournament Outlook
The Volunteers have the talent, experience, and depth to make a deep tournament run. Their non-conference schedule will give them the opportunity to prove that they can compete with the best teams in the country. If they can limit their weaknesses and play to their strengths, the Volunteers should have a good chance of making the Final Four.
Conclusion
The Volunteers have all the pieces in place to make a deep run in the NCAA tournament. With their experienced roster and difficult schedule, the Volunteers should have a good chance of making the Final Four. If they can limit their weaknesses and play to their strengths, the Volunteers have a good chance of making history this season.
To conclude, Tennessee is a legitimate Final Four contender and will have a great chance of making a deep tournament run this season.