Tennessee gave fans plenty to get excited about during Saturday’s open scrimmage at Food City Center. Terrence Hill Jr., Juke Harris and Troy Henderson combined for 75 points, offering an intriguing glimpse of what Rick Barnes’ rebuilt offense might become.
And here’s something worth remembering: One of college basketball’s most accomplished three-point shooters wasn’t even on the floor.
Tyler Lundblade, the Belmont transfer recovering from August back surgery, has yet to participate fully in Tennessee’s preseason preparations. But his shooting résumé offers a compelling reason to wonder just how dangerous this offense could become.
Last season, Lundblade averaged 15.6 points and buried 115 three-pointers, ranking ninth nationally in total makes and sixth in threes per game. He connected on 40.6% of his attempts after leading Division I with a nation’s best 48.1% the previous season. He also earned Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Year honors.
That’s not simply another good shooter waiting in the wings. That’s a proven national-level perimeter threat.
A Shooter Who Changes the Equation
Saturday demonstrated that Tennessee has multiple players capable of creating offense and knocking down outside shots. Add Lundblade’s ability to find openings along the perimeter, and opposing defenses could face some uncomfortable decisions.
Stay attached to Lundblade, and teammates have more room to attack. Help elsewhere, and one of the country’s most productive shooters could be waiting for an open look.
For Barnes, the possibilities are enticing.
There has also been encouraging news on Lundblade’s rehabilitation. During Tuesday’s practice, he participated alongside teammates before shifting to individual work as the session intensified. Observers reported that he moved well and displayed the shooting touch that made him such an attractive addition.
Patience Before the Payoff
Encouraging progress, however, isn’t the same as medical clearance. Lundblade remains on a carefully managed rehabilitation schedule, with no announced date for unrestricted participation.
“I know he’s wanting to go right now, but we’ll do what the doctors tell us,” Barnes said Tuesday.
The coach also described Lundblade’s increasing weight-bearing activity on a treadmill, another step in the recovery process.
With 13 newcomers still developing chemistry, Tennessee would undoubtedly benefit from having its full roster practicing together. But rushing Lundblade back would accomplish little if it compromised his long-term availability.
Meanwhile, the exhibitions against Xavier and Duke should provide a clearer picture of Tennessee’s offensive potential against outside competition.
Saturday’s shooting display was impressive, but an intrasquad scrimmage is only an early indication of what lies ahead.
The Vols still have plenty to prove. Their rotations, defensive identity and offensive consistency remain works in progress.
But somewhere in Knoxville, a guy who made 115 three-pointers last season is on his way to the party.
– Vol Hoops Staff Writer