A Strategic Addition to the Coaching Staff
Tennessee announced this week that Chris Parker will step into the role of assistant director of player development for the Volunteers, a move that underscores the program’s commitment to continuity and growth.
Parker arrives after a two‑year stint as a graduate assistant at Texas Christian University, where he contributed to the Horned Frogs’ recruiting efforts and day‑to‑day player oversight.
A native of Texas, Parker’s collegiate career spanned four seasons at Henderson State University, where he earned All‑Great American Conference first‑team honors and helped the Reddies capture the conference championship in 2020.
During his senior year he also guided Liberty University to an Atlantic Sun Conference title and a berth in the NCAA Tournament, averaging 10.3 points, 3.4 assists and 2.1 rebounds per game while shooting efficiently from the field.
After graduation, Parker took his game overseas, spending a season in Portugal’s ProLiga before returning to the United States to compete in the Georgian Super League, where he posted averages of 23 points and 13 points per game respectively.
He now replaces Riley Collins, who departed Tennessee in July 2024 to join NC State alongside former Volunteers associate head coach Justin Gainey, a move that has reshaped the staff’s composition.
Rick Barnes, the Volunteers’ head coach, praised Parker’s blend of playing experience and coaching acumen, stating that his addition will strengthen the program’s player development pipeline.
Collins, who had served as assistant director of player development for the past two seasons after four years with the program, expressed gratitude for his time at Tennessee and excitement for the next chapter at NC State.