As the NBA trade deadline came and went on Thursday, teams across the league made their final moves to shape the rest of their season - whether they’re chasing a title, building for the future, or simply shuffling the deck. And while the spotlight often shines brightest on the league’s superstars, there’s a quiet but growing presence of Tennessee Volunteers alumni making their mark in the pros. Rick Barnes’ program in Knoxville has quietly become a reliable pipeline to the NBA, and this year, it was once again part of the deadline conversation.
The lone former Vol on the move this time around was Julian Phillips, who was traded from the Chicago Bulls to the Minnesota Timberwolves. It’s a fresh start for the second-year forward, who’s still carving out his role in the league.
While his stats this season - 2.8 points, 1.3 rebounds, and 0.2 assists per game - don’t jump off the page, the Timberwolves clearly see something worth investing in. At 6-foot-8 with defensive versatility, Phillips fits the mold of the modern wing, and Minnesota could be a place where he starts to develop into more than just a rotational piece.
Let’s take a look at the rest of the Tennessee alums currently in the NBA and beyond - from seasoned vets to rookies still finding their footing.
Tobias Harris - Forward, Detroit Pistons
Years at Tennessee: 2011
2025-26 Stats: 13.5 PPG | 4.6 RPG | 2.5 APG
The most accomplished Vol in the league, Harris returned to Detroit this season - a full-circle moment in a career that’s spanned over a decade and included stops with six different teams. He continues to be a steady scoring option and veteran presence, even on a young Pistons squad that’s still deep in the rebuilding phase. Harris isn’t the flashiest player, but his consistency and professionalism have made him a valued asset wherever he’s gone.
Grant Williams - Forward, Charlotte Hornets
Years at Tennessee: 2017-19
2025-26 Stats: 5.5 PPG | 3.9 RPG | 1.0 APG
Williams has bounced around a bit since leaving Boston, with stops in Dallas and now Charlotte. He’s known for doing the dirty work - defending multiple positions, setting solid screens, and spacing the floor just enough to keep defenses honest. While his numbers this season are modest, he continues to be the kind of role player that coaches trust in key moments.
Dalton Knecht - Guard, Los Angeles Lakers
Years at Tennessee: 2024
2025-26 Stats: 4.6 PPG | 1.4 RPG | 0.3 APG
Knecht came into the league with big expectations after a standout year in Knoxville, and while his rookie season with the Lakers has been relatively quiet, there’s a lot to like about his long-term potential. He’s shown flashes of scoring ability and isn’t afraid to shoot, but like many young guards, he’s still adjusting to the speed and physicality of the NBA game. Playing alongside veterans in L.A. could accelerate his development.
Chaz Lanier - Guard, Detroit Pistons
Years at Tennessee: 2025
2025-26 Stats: 3.1 PPG | 0.9 RPG | 0.7 APG
Lanier is another young guard trying to earn his stripes on a rebuilding Pistons team. His minutes have been limited, but he’s shown some flashes as a shooter and secondary playmaker. Detroit is giving its young core plenty of opportunities, and Lanier could be one to watch as the season progresses.
Julian Phillips - Forward, Minnesota Timberwolves
Years at Tennessee: 2023
2025-26 Stats: 2.8 PPG | 1.3 RPG | 0.2 APG
Now in Minnesota after being dealt at the deadline, Phillips will look to carve out a role on a Timberwolves team that’s been one of the Western Conference’s surprise success stories. His athleticism and defensive upside are intriguing, and a change of scenery could be just what he needs to take the next step.
Jahmai Mashack - Guard/Forward, Memphis Grizzlies
Years at Tennessee: 2022-25
2025-26 Stats: 1.0 PPG | 1.1 RPG | 0.9 APG
Mashack is just getting started in Memphis, where he’s seen limited action. Known in college for his defensive tenacity, he’s trying to bring that same energy to the next level. With the Grizzlies dealing with injuries and roster turnover, there could be more minutes on the table as the season unfolds.
G-League Watch: Vols on the Rise
Several former Tennessee players are honing their skills in the NBA G-League, hoping to break through to the big stage. That list includes:
- Igor Milicic (76ers affiliate)
- Tyreke Key (Raptors affiliate)
- Kennedy Chandler (76ers affiliate)
- Keon Johnson (Celtics affiliate)
- Jaden Springer (Pelicans affiliate)
Each of these players is at a different point in their journey, but the G-League has proven to be a valuable proving ground - and a launchpad back into the NBA rotation.
Vols Around the World: Overseas Alumni
Tennessee’s impact stretches far beyond the NBA. A number of former Vols are continuing their careers overseas, showcasing their skills in leagues across the globe:
- Zakai Zeigler - France
- Jordan Gainey - Croatia
- Santiago Vescovi - Spain
- Josiah-Jordan James - Israel
- Uros Plavsic - Serbia
- John Fulkerson - Poland
- **Victor Bailey Jr. ** - China
- Lamonte Turner - Serbia
- Jordan Bowden - Germany
- Yves Pons - Andorra/Spain
- Jordan Bone - Italy
- Admiral Schofield - Australia
- Kyle Alexander - Turkey
- Josh Richardson - Spain
From Europe to Asia and everywhere in between, these players are continuing their basketball journeys, often in key roles for their respective clubs. It’s a testament to the depth of talent that’s come through Knoxville - players who may not have stuck in the NBA but are still thriving professionally.
Final Word
Tennessee’s NBA footprint might not be as headline-grabbing as some blue-blood programs, but it’s growing - and it’s real. From veterans like Tobias Harris, to rising talents like Dalton Knecht and Julian Phillips, to a global roster of pros still chasing the dream, the Vols are well-represented across the basketball world. And with Rick Barnes continuing to bring in top-tier talent, don’t expect that trend to slow down anytime soon.