Recoveries shaping the Volunteers' outlook
Christian Fermin, a 6‑foot‑10 center, returned from surgery for a fractured left hand and is back at practice after missing offseason workouts. The 6‑foot‑10 big man added 12 or 13 pounds over the summer, a sign of physical progress, and committed to Tennessee University on May 14 after leaving VCU due to personal matters. In his sophomore and junior seasons at VCU he averaged 4.9 points, 3.6 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game over 72 games.
Tyler Lundblade, a 6‑foot‑5 shooting guard, was the Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Year in 2025‑26 and averaged 15.6 points per game for Belmont. He is nearing full recovery from a lingering back injury and is progressing steadily toward returning to full health, a development that could bolster the Volunteers' perimeter scoring.
Troy Henderson, a 6‑foot‑1 point guard, underwent shoulder surgery and is close to returning after missing multiple SEC games due to a nagging injury. He is expected to compete for playing time in Tennessee's crowded backcourt and is actively ramping up workout intensity as the team prepares for the new season.
Head coach Rick Barnes has overseen the rehabilitation program, emphasizing the importance of health in the upcoming season. The coaching staff views the returning trio as key pieces that could help the Volunteers approach a fully healthy roster.
The progress of these players comes as the program looks to build on recent momentum. With the offseason workouts underway in Knoxville, Tennessee, the Volunteers are optimistic that the returning talent will add depth and experience to a squad that aims to compete at the highest level.