BREAKING NEWS: Tennessee Comes Hard on Kentucky – Andrew Carr Rejects Alabama, Georgia Tech, Texas, Georgia and Commits to Tennessee Basketball…
In what can only be described as a massive recruiting coup and a statement of intent, the Tennessee Volunteers have landed a significant commitment that’s set the college basketball world abuzz. Andrew Carr, the highly-coveted transfer forward and one of the most versatile and experienced players in the portal, has officially committed to Rick Barnes and the Tennessee Volunteers, rejecting interest from a host of prestigious programs, including Kentucky, Alabama, Georgia Tech, Texas, and Georgia.
The move marks another major win for the Tennessee basketball program and underscores their aggressive push to secure top-tier talent in a competitive offseason transfer market. With Carr now wearing orange and white, the Vols add a mature, battle-tested, and high-IQ forward who immediately boosts their frontcourt depth and versatility heading into the 2025 season.
—
Who is Andrew Carr?
Andrew Carr is no stranger to high-level basketball. The 6-foot-10 forward from West Chester, Pennsylvania, made his mark in the ACC while playing for Wake Forest, where he evolved into one of the most consistent and dynamic stretch forwards in the conference. Known for his fluid movement, high motor, sharp shooting, and elite decision-making, Carr was a standout for the Demon Deacons.
In his final season at Wake Forest, Carr averaged:
13.5 points per game
6.8 rebounds
2.1 assists
1.3 blocks
While shooting 50.2% from the field and 37.8% from three-point range
Carr’s ability to stretch the floor, defend multiple positions, and serve as a secondary facilitator made him a hot commodity the moment he entered the transfer portal.
—
Why Tennessee? Why Not the Others?
Carr had no shortage of suitors once he became available. He received strong interest from several SEC and ACC schools including Kentucky, Alabama, Georgia, Texas, and Georgia Tech. Each of these programs offered different styles and promises, but Tennessee ultimately rose above the rest — and here’s why:
1. Rick Barnes’ System
Carr is the prototypical player that thrives under Rick Barnes — tough, intelligent, and team-oriented. Barnes has earned a reputation for developing players who are both fundamentally sound and NBA-ready. Carr was drawn to Barnes’ resume, which includes producing NBA talents like Grant Williams and Admiral Schofield — both of whom share similar skill sets with Carr.
2. Opportunity to Lead
Tennessee’s frontcourt is undergoing transition after losing key veterans. Carr saw a clear pathway to start and play a central role. At other schools like Kentucky and Alabama, he would’ve had to battle against a backlog of former five-stars and younger players. At Tennessee, he can step in as a veteran leader and playmaker from day one.
3. Winning Culture and National Visibility
Carr made it clear he wanted to join a team poised to make a deep NCAA Tournament run — and Tennessee fits that bill. With strong showings in recent years and consistent top-10 finishes, the Vols are one of the most respected programs in the nation.
4. Development and NBA Preparation
The Volunteers’ track record of preparing players for the NBA played a crucial role in Carr’s decision. He’s got one season left and wants to make the most of it. Tennessee’s strength and conditioning program, defensive rigor, and tactical offensive schemes all contributed to his belief that this was the best place to finish his college career.
—
What Tennessee Is Getting in Andrew Carr
Make no mistake — this is a huge addition for the Volunteers.
Andrew Carr is:
A matchup nightmare for opposing defenses. At 6’10” with guard-like skills, he can take defenders off the dribble, post up smaller players, or stretch the defense with his reliable three-point shot.
A lockdown team defender. Carr’s length and intelligence allow him to guard multiple positions, anchor switches, and alter shots in the paint.
An experienced leader. With years of ACC experience under his belt, Carr brings maturity, poise, and a professional approach to the locker room.
His presence will be pivotal for the Vols, not only because of what he does statistically but because of how he raises the IQ and intensity of those around him.
—
How This Impacts Tennessee’s 2025 Roster
With Carr now in the fold, the Volunteers suddenly have one of the most well-rounded rosters in the SEC. They are building a team with a beautiful balance of youth and experience, scoring and defense, athleticism and intelligence.
Projected frontcourt with Carr:
PF: Andrew Carr
C: Jonas Aidoo (if he returns) / New Transfer
Bench: Tobe Awaka / Incoming freshmen
Carr’s presence opens up so many possibilities for Rick Barnes. He can be used in high-low actions, pick-and-pop sets, or even run offense through him at the elbow. His passing skills will keep Tennessee’s offense moving fluidly, while his shooting forces defenders to stretch out, creating space for the Vols’ slashing guards.
—
Reaction Around the SEC and Beyond
The SEC landscape just shifted.
Kentucky fans are stunned.
Carr was seen as a natural fit for new head coach Mark Pope’s system, which emphasizes shooting and frontcourt versatility. Many assumed the Wildcats would land him — until Tennessee swooped in and closed fast.
> “That one hurts. Would’ve loved to see Carr at Rupp,” one UK fan wrote online.
Alabama was in the mix until the end.
But Carr reportedly had concerns about fit and role under Nate Oats, who is known for guard-heavy lineups. Texas, Georgia, and Georgia Tech never truly emerged as serious contenders late in the race.
Tennessee fans, meanwhile, are thrilled.
Vol Nation is buzzing on social media, hailing the signing as one of the biggest transfer portal wins of the offseason.
> “ANDREW CARR IS A VOL. Let’s goooo!”
“Rick Barnes is cooking again! Elite pickup.”
“Carr fits our culture. Experience, toughness, and heart.”
—
What’s Next for Tennessee Basketball?
With Carr’s commitment secured, Tennessee is gaining momentum on the recruiting trail. Rick Barnes and his staff are now turning their attention toward:
Solidifying their backcourt with another experienced guard
Potentially adding another rim-protecting big to back up Carr
Finalizing the 2025 recruiting class with a focus on shooters and hybrid wings
The Vols are clearly all in for a deep NCAA Tournament run, and Carr’s commitment signals that the time to win is now.
—
Final Thoughts
Andrew Carr’s commitment to Tennessee is more than just a great transfer portal win — it’s a powerful statement. In an offseason where every blue blood is scrambling to reload, Rick Barnes and the Vols aren’t just keeping up — they’re setting the pace.
Carr’s arrival adds instant leadership, versatility, and production. It’s a move that puts Tennessee firmly in the conversation for SEC supremacy and national contention.
The Vols came hard. They beat out giants. And now, with Andrew Carr in orange and white, Rocky Top just got a whole lot stronger.
Stay tuned. This ride is just getting started.
Leave a Reply