Anna 
The University of Tennessee has a rich basketball history, producing numerous standout players who have left an indelible mark on the sport. From record-setting scorers to dominant defenders, these athletes have showcased exceptional talent and dedication. This article highlights some of the most remarkable basketball players from Tennessee, celebrating their contributions to the game.
1. Bernard King
Bernard King is one of the greatest players in Tennessee basketball history. He played for the Volunteers from 1974 to 1977. King was a scoring machine, averaging 25.8 points per game in college. He led Tennessee to the NCAA Tournament in 1976 and 1977.
After college, King had a successful NBA career. He was a four-time NBA All-Star and won the scoring title in 1985. His jersey (#53) was retired by the University of Tennessee.
2. Ernie Grunfeld
Ernie Grunfeld played alongside Bernard King in the 1970s. Together, they were known as the “Ernie and Bernie Show.” Grunfeld was a versatile player who could score, rebound, and pass. He averaged 22.3 points and 8.7 rebounds per game in college.
Grunfeld later played in the NBA and became a successful executive. He helped build championship teams with the New York Knicks and Washington Wizards.
3. Allan Houston
Allan Houston was a star for Tennessee in the early 1990s. He was a sharp shooter who averaged 21.9 points per game in his college career. Houston led the Volunteers to the Sweet 16 in 1991.
In the NBA, Houston was a two-time All-Star and won a gold medal with Team USA in 2000. His jersey (#20) hangs in the rafters at Tennessee.
4. Dale Ellis
Dale Ellis played for Tennessee from 1979 to 1983. He was a dominant scorer and helped the team reach the NCAA Tournament. Ellis averaged 22.6 points per game in his senior year.
Ellis had a long NBA career, winning the Most Improved Player Award in 1987. He was also a three-point shooting specialist.
5. Chris Lofton
Chris Lofton is one of the best shooters in Tennessee history. He played from 2004 to 2008 and set the school record for three-pointers made (431). Lofton was a consensus All-American in 2007.
Despite going undrafted, Lofton had a successful career overseas. He is remembered as one of the most clutch players in Tennessee basketball history.
6. Grant Williams
Grant Williams was a key player for Tennessee from 2016 to 2019. He won SEC Player of the Year twice and led the Vols to the Sweet 16 in 2019. Williams averaged 18.8 points and 7.5 rebounds in his junior year.
Williams was drafted by the Boston Celtics in 2019 and has become a solid NBA player. He won an NBA championship with the Celtics in 2024.
7. Admiral Schofield
Admiral Schofield was a leader for Tennessee from 2015 to 2019. He was known for his strong defense and scoring ability. Schofield helped the Vols reach No. 1 in the AP Poll during the 2018-19 season.
Schofield was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2019. He has played in the NBA and overseas.
8. Vincent Yarbrough
Vincent Yarbrough played for Tennessee from 1998 to 2002. He was a versatile forward who could score and rebound. Yarbrough averaged 15.1 points and 6.6 rebounds per game in college.
Yarbrough was drafted by the Denver Nuggets in 2002. He also played in Europe before retiring.
9. C.J. Watson
C.J. Watson was a standout guard for Tennessee from 2002 to 2006. He was a great playmaker who averaged 15.3 points and 4.0 assists in his senior year.
Watson played in the NBA for 10 seasons with teams like the Golden State Warriors and Chicago Bulls.
10. Tobias Harris
Tobias Harris played one season at Tennessee (2010-11) but made a big impact. He averaged 15.3 points and 7.3 rebounds as a freshman.
Harris was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in 2011. He has had a long and successful NBA career, playing for multiple teams.
Conclusion
Tennessee basketball has produced many great players over the years. From Bernard King to Grant Williams, these athletes have made the Volunteers a respected program. Their hard work and talent have inspired future generations of players.
Related topics: