Breaking News: Jordan Bone Appointed as Special Point Guard Coach for Tennessee Basketball….
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – In a move that has thrilled longtime fans and added a fresh layer of excitement to the Tennessee Volunteers basketball program, the University of Tennessee has officially appointed former standout guard Jordan Bone as the team’s new Special Point Guard Coach. The announcement, made early Friday morning by Athletic Director Danny White and Head Coach Rick Barnes, marks a bold and strategic investment in the future of Tennessee’s backcourt development.
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A Hometown Hero Returns to Rocky Top
Jordan Bone’s journey from Nashville native to Tennessee legend is one of perseverance, speed, and passion. Known for his elite quickness, court vision, and floor generalship, Bone was a critical component of the Vols’ rise to national prominence from 2016 to 2019. His junior season in particular—averaging 13.5 points and 5.8 assists per game—solidified his reputation as one of the most dynamic point guards in college basketball.
His on-court brilliance helped Tennessee secure a No. 1 ranking in the AP Poll during the 2018–19 season, a Sweet 16 appearance in the NCAA Tournament, and a run that reignited the national relevance of the Volunteers’ program.
Now, Bone is back—this time in a mentorship role aimed at shaping the next generation of elite Tennessee point guards.
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Coach Barnes Speaks: “A Mastermind of the Position”
“Jordan Bone has always had an extraordinary basketball mind,” said Head Coach Rick Barnes. “He was one of the fastest players I’ve ever coached, both physically and mentally. His feel for the game, his ability to read defenses, and his knack for leading a team are all qualities that made him a top-tier point guard. Bringing him back as a coach is one of the best moves we could have made for the growth of our young guards.”
The new role—officially titled “Special Point Guard Coach”—was specifically created by Barnes and his coaching staff as part of a broader initiative to provide position-specific mentorship. Bone will now focus exclusively on the development of Tennessee’s ball handlers, both on the court and in film study.
“I want our guards to see the floor like Jordan did,” Barnes added. “He’s going to sharpen their decision-making, help them handle pressure, and teach them how to run a team the right way.”
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From NBA to Knoxville: A Unique Coaching Transition
After being drafted 57th overall in the 2019 NBA Draft by the New Orleans Pelicans and later traded to the Detroit Pistons, Bone had brief stints with the Orlando Magic and G-League squads. While his pro career was marked by promise, recurring injuries and roster shifts pushed Bone toward a new chapter—coaching.
In a statement during his introductory press conference, Bone reflected on the decision.
“Playing in the NBA was a dream come true, but my heart always stayed in Knoxville,” he said. “I’ve learned so much from my years in the league—about preparation, about leadership, about adversity—and I’m excited to pass that on. This isn’t just about developing better point guards; it’s about creating leaders.”
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The Role and the Roadmap
As Special Point Guard Coach, Bone will assume a range of responsibilities:
One-on-One Mentoring: Bone will work directly with the team’s starting and backup point guards, including highly-touted freshman Jaden Blake and sophomore standout Elijah Thomas.
Game Film Analysis: A crucial part of Bone’s new role will be helping guards break down film, recognize defensive schemes, and improve their court awareness.
Skill Development: From pick-and-roll reads to transition decision-making, Bone will run weekly clinics designed to sharpen core skills.
Off-Court Guidance: Beyond the hardwood, Bone aims to serve as a mentor, helping young players navigate NIL opportunities, media responsibilities, and personal growth.
“This role is about more than just dribbling and passing,” Bone said. “It’s about teaching these kids to lead under pressure, to stay composed when things break down, and to inspire the guys around them.”
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Fan Reaction: Enthusiasm and Nostalgia
News of Bone’s appointment has ignited a wave of excitement across the Volunteer faithful. On social media, fans celebrated his return with clips from his most memorable plays—his coast-to-coast drives, buzzer-beating assists, and ice-cold three-pointers.
One user on X (formerly Twitter) posted:
“Jordan Bone back on Rocky Top? Let’s gooo! Our PGs just got a whole lot scarier!”
Even some former teammates chimed in. Grant Williams, now associate head coach, tweeted:
“A brother, a baller, a leader. Couldn’t be happier to share the sideline with @JordanBone23. The Vols are in GREAT hands.”
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The Impact on the Future
With the 2025 recruiting cycle already underway, Bone’s presence is expected to play a critical role in attracting top guard talent. His NBA pedigree, combined with his deep ties to the program and his relatable energy, make him a uniquely powerful figure in the eyes of recruits.
Tennessee already boasts one of the top backcourt classes in the nation, and insiders suggest Bone’s appointment may sway several undecided prospects leaning toward other programs.
“He’s not just a name—he’s a force,” said one recruiting analyst. “For a young point guard, being able to learn directly from someone who’s played at the highest level and done it at your own school? That’s huge.”
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Looking Ahead: The Bone Legacy Continues
While Jordan Bone’s coaching career is just beginning, expectations are already sky-high. Tennessee fans, players, and staff see this as more than a hire—they see it as the next phase in a legacy that began nearly a decade ago.
“I’m here to help bring championships to Knoxville,” Bone said, his eyes fixed on the court where he once ran the show. “We’ve got the talent. We’ve got the heart. And now, we’re building something special. This is just the beginning.”
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Welcome back to Rocky Top, Coach Jordan Bone.
The Point Guard Factory is officially open for business.
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