In today’s college basketball landscape, feeling connected to a roster can be difficult for fans. How do you invest in players who might chase the biggest bag in the offseason? Loyalty and heart feel like dying traits in college sports, making the end of this run for Tennessee’s senior class all the more bittersweet.
Sure, this group includes one-year guys like Chaz Lanier, Igor Milicic Jr., and Darlinstone Dubar—but unlike some, they don’t feel like rentals. Coming from North Florida, Charlotte, and Hofstra to the SEC was a daunting leap, yet they embraced it. They bet on themselves, believing they could contribute to a national championship run and etch their names into Tennessee basketball history. They had offers from more prestigious programs but chose Rocky Top because it felt like home. In today’s game, that’s rare. That’s special.
Then, of course, there are the guys who have called Rocky Top home for multiple seasons—some since day one of their college careers. Jordan Gainey, Zakai Zeigler, Jahmai Mashack, and Grant Hurst. All were drastically undervalued coming out of high school. In Gainey’s case, he had to take the long road through USC Upstate before finding his way to the 865.
They came to Tennessee and didn’t just embrace the program’s culture—they elevated it. From 30-foot buzzer-beaters to the second Elite Eight trip in program history, this group has given Vol Nation memories that will last a lifetime.
As a fan, all I can say is thank you. Thank you for recognizing how special this opportunity is. Your effort has never been in question. You have set the standard for those to come. From the moment you set foot on campus, you have embodied everything it means to be a Volunteer.
But this journey isn’t over yet. There’s still one more memory to make—still history to be written. No matter how this magical ride ends, you will forever be a Vol for Life.
Comments