Freddie Dilione, a former Tennessee basketball guard, is gearing up to re-enter the transfer portal next week. After spending two seasons with Penn State, where he started 43 of 63 games, Dilione is seeking a fresh start for his final collegiate year.
Dilione made significant strides during his junior season at Penn State, posting averages of 14 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game. His shooting was solid, hitting 47.3% from the field, though there’s room for improvement from beyond the arc at 31.8%. In his sophomore year, he contributed 9.4 points and 2.8 rebounds per game, showcasing his growth and potential.
Originally a top 50 recruit in the 2022 class, Dilione chose Tennessee over several notable programs, including Alabama and Virginia. However, his freshman year with the Vols was challenging, as he struggled to secure a consistent role, averaging just 1.7 points in limited minutes. Despite these challenges, he was part of a historic Tennessee team that clinched the SEC Regular-Season Championship and made a deep tournament run.
While a return to Tennessee seems improbable, a reunion with NC State’s new head coach, Justin Gainey, might be on the horizon. Gainey, who was instrumental in recruiting Dilione out of high school, could provide a welcoming environment for the Fayetteville native.
Meanwhile, Tennessee continues to make moves in the transfer market, recently acquiring Tyler Lundblade from Belmont. The 6-foot-5 guard, known for his sharpshooting, was the MVC Player of the Year, adding firepower to the Vols’ lineup.