Tennessee’s late-summer addition of Jalen Washington looked like an unnecessary amount of frontcourt talent in the best possible way.
Now, it looks like a luxury the Volunteers may not get to keep.
The Tennessee Court of Appeals stayed the temporary injunction that had given Washington and several other athletes another season of eligibility. As a result, the Vanderbilt transfer is currently ineligible to play for Tennessee while the legal process continues.
Washington could eventually regain his eligibility. Until then, Rick Barnes must return to the frontcourt plan he had before the 6-foot-10 forward unexpectedly entered the portal.
Fortunately for Tennessee, that plan still includes several capable options.
What else is in Knoxville?
Loyola Chicago transfer Miles Rubin and former VCU big man Christian Fermin can absorb significant minutes inside. DeWayne Brown returns, while Braedan Lue brings additional size and defensive versatility after transferring from Kennesaw State.
That group gives Barnes alternatives. It does not make Washington’s possible absence insignificant.
Washington produced the best season of his career at Vanderbilt, averaging 8.9 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.3 blocks. He shot 56.3% from the field and set career highs with 46 blocks and a 74% mark at the free-throw line.
He also offered something Barnes values immensely: experience against high-level competition.
Experience on the court
Washington spent three seasons at North Carolina before joining Vanderbilt. He even delivered seven points, seven rebounds and three blocks in the Commodores’ SEC Tournament victory over Tennessee last season.
The Volunteers were not simply adding another tall player. They were adding someone who had already shown he could affect winning against them.
Washington’s absence would create a clearer path to minutes for Rubin and Fermin. Rubin brings shot-blocking ability, while Fermin arrives after making 90 appearances during his VCU career.
Those players were recruited to play meaningful roles, not merely wait behind Washington.
Tennessee therefore possesses a better contingency plan than many programs affected by the appeals court’s decision. Barnes has bodies, experience and defensive options in the paint.
What he no longer has is the possibility of overwhelming opponents with all of them.
Washington could still return if the appeal is resolved in his favor. Until that happens, Tennessee must treat its dramatic August addition as an unavailable bonus rather than an essential part of the roster.
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