Tennessee Basketball: 3 reasons why Vols will be tourney team in 2019-20

1. Arrival of Josiah Jordan-James

Josiah Jordan-James is the first McDonald’s All-American to join the Tennessee program since Tobias Harris. The 5-star freshman won’t fill the void left by Jordan Bone, Admiral Schofield, and Grant Williams, but he will immediately become a factor unlike many of the other freshmen who may struggle.

Jordan-James is the 22nd ranked prospect in this class according to 247Sports and has all the physical tools to succeed at the next level. A 6-6 athletic combo guard, Jordan-James attacks the basket often and is a decent finisher around the rim, but his three-point shooting could use some work according to Evan Daniels.

Expect him to start beside Lamonte Turner to begin the season. We will have to wait and see who the offense will run through, but you could expect Lamonte Turner to start the season initiating the offense as the freshmen learn the college game. Having the senior to rely on in tough situations will help Jordan-James adjust even faster.

Both Kentucky and Florida’s recruiting classes are more impressive than Tennessee’s. Kentucky brings in three five-stars and Florida is adding two, including Scottie Lewis who was the number seven recruit. It will be up to the Volunteers to make this lineup work immediately, they have the advantage of Lamonte Turner’s experience to help them.

Five-star Jordan-James is unlikely to stay for longer than a single season. However, with Rick Barnes leading the team, I expect the new look volunteers to figure out how to work together well before conference play begins.