The 2026 NBA Draft marked a milestone for Tennessee basketball as Ja'Kobi Gillespie heard his name called by the San Antonio Spurs, sealing a journey that began in the small town of Greeneville.
A Knoxville native’s NBA destiny
A product of Greeneville’s high school powerhouses, Gillespie first made a name at Belmont before transferring to Maryland and ultimately finding his stride at Tennessee, where he helped the Volunteers navigate a deep NCAA Tournament run that included Sweet 16 and Elite Eight appearances.
During his lone season with the Vols he posted a team‑high 18.4 points, 5.4 assists and 2.1 steals per game, shooting 33.8 percent from three and 41 percent overall. His 34‑point outburst against Texas and a 21.8‑point average in the tournament underscored his scoring punch.
Coaches praised his ability to handle the ball and create opportunities, noting that he formed a potent scoring duo with Nate Ament and operated as the primary facilitator in a backcourt that also featured Felix Okpara and Elston Turner.
Rick Barnes, the veteran Tennessee head coach, highlighted Gillespie’s growth from a lob‑throwing prospect to one of the SEC’s most efficient playmakers, a transformation that earned him a spot on the All‑SEC First Team.
Now, the Spurs will look to develop the Knoxville native into a complementary backcourt piece alongside emerging talents, hoping his defensive instincts and playmaking can translate to the NBA’s faster pace.