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ON TOUR: Sandgren Advances on First Day at Harlingen Futures

By Amanda Pruitt on February 29, 2012 10:12 AM
Former Vol Tennys Sandgren won his first-round match Tuesday to advance to the round of 16 at the Harlingen Futures in Texas, a $15,000 event. 

Sandgren defeated Shane Vinsant, a Texas A&M signee, 6-1, 6-7 (4), 7-5 at the Harlingen Country Club. He now faces top-seeded Peter Polansky of Canada, who won last week's Futures tournament handedly in Brownsville, Texas.

In doubles, Sandgren and Rhyne Williams upped their winning streak to five matches, easily beating wild cards Harrison Keyser and Jone Wiegand 6-2, 6-2.

Former All-American Ben Rogers was also in his doubles action of the year. He and fellow American Amrit Narasimhan upset third-seeded Vahid Mirzadeh and Joshua Zavala 6-3, 3-6 [10-6].

All four doubles quarterfinals will be played today, and Rhyne Williams will play his opening singles match against Luka Gregorc. 

Wednesday's Tennessee Football Briefing (2/29)

By Jason Yellin on February 29, 2012 8:39 AM
Four Vols Are On The College Football Hall Ballot, which was released by the National Football Foundation on Tuesday. Here are a few stories touching on Tennessee nominees: Coach Phillip Fulmer is joined by Willie Gault, Bobby Majors and Paul Naumoff.


Also, from Nooga.com, here is a story on the Vols at the NFL Combine: 

Happy Birthday - Feb. 29: Caroline Capocaccia

By Jason Yellin on February 29, 2012 8:35 AM
On Feb. 29, we wish a special Happy Birthday to soccer defender Caroline Capocaccia, who celebrates her birthday once every four years, being born on the leap-day. 

Caroline Capocaccia

Wednesday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/29)

By Jason Yellin on February 29, 2012 7:18 AM
The basketball team will look to continue its hot stretch in SEC play as the Vols travel to Baton Rouge. Check out GAMEDAY CENTRAL: Vols at LSU.

Here are the most recent stories from the media previewing the contest:

- Chattanooga Times Free Press: Vols' final two important
- Chattanooga Times Free Press: Vols have legitimate NCAA shot
- Inside Tennessee: Vols 'fighting for lives'

News from Louisiana includes:

- The Advocate: Seniors to bid farewell

Tennessee Baseball Walk-Up Songs

By Cameron Harris on February 28, 2012 2:47 PM

Complete list of walk-up songs for the 2012 Tennessee baseball team is below.

LISTEN HERE to a Spotify playlist of selected UT walk-up songs.


Jared Allen - Johnny Cash, "God's Gonna Cut You Down"

Ethan Bennett - Needtobreathe, "Lay 'Em Down"

Nick Blount - Flo Rida, "Good Feeling"

Richard Carter - Lil Wayne, "Mr. Carter"

Hunter Daniel - Garth Brooks, "Callin' Baton Rouge"

Samuel Davis - Youngbloodz, "I'mma Shine"

Chris Fritts - DJ Khaled feat. Drake, Rick Ross and Lil Wayne, "I'm on One"

Zack Godley - Brantley Gilbert, "Kick it in the Sticks"

David Horne - Jay-Z & Kanye West, "Who Gon Stop Me"

Robbie Kidd - Young Jeezy, "By the Way"

Zach Luther - Cut Copy, "Lights & Music"

Will Maddox - Damian Marley, "Welcome to Jamrock"

Jason Manis - 50 Cent, "Get in My Car"

Eric Martin - Awolnation, "Sail"

Davis Morgan - La Bouche, "Sweet Dreams"

Zach Osborne - Third Eye Blind, "Never Let You Go"                               

Chris Pierce - Avicii, "Levels (Skrillex Remix)" and Bill Conti, "Going The Distance"

Nick Powell - Jay-Z, "Can I Get A..."

Jake Rowland - Killswitch Engage, "The End of Heartache"

Dalton Saberhagen - J Cole, "Blow Up"

Drew Steckenrider - Pat Benetar, "We Belong"

Conner Stevens - Lecrae Feat. Cam & Dwayne Triumf, "Don't Waste Your Life"

Joseph Vanderplas - Metallica, "For Whom the Bell Tolls"

Wes Walker- Brooks and Dunn, "Hillbilly Deluxe"               

Steven Weaver - Red Hot Chili Peppers, "Can't Stop"

Nick Williams - Lecrae, "Rebel"

Parker Wormsley - Lil Wayne feat. Drake, "Right Above It"

Andy Yates - Jay-Z, "Moment of Clarity"


Tuesday's Tennessee Football Briefing (2/28)

By Jason Yellin on February 28, 2012 9:18 AM
Monday was a big day for former Vols defensive lineman Malik Jackson. Check out this feature on him: Jackson Relishes NFL Combine Experience.

Here are a few other stories with mentions of Jackson and fellow NFL Combine participant Tauren Poole.

- CBS Sports.com: Jackson works out at combine

Here are some other football stories:

Happy Birthday - Feb. 28: Alan Posey

By Jason Yellin on February 28, 2012 8:41 AM

On Feb. 28, we wish Happy Birthday to football freshman lineman Alan Posey.

Alan Posey

Tuesday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/28)

By Jason Yellin on February 28, 2012 7:15 AM
The Vols head to Louisiana tonight for Wednesday's crucial game at LSU. Check out the Cuonzo Martin Press Luncheon Transcript.


Here are the latest stories from the media:

Antone Davis Featured On Vol Calls Tonight At 8 p.m.

By Jason Yellin on February 27, 2012 5:35 PM

Former Vols All-American lineman Antone Davis, who recently reached the finals of NBC's "The Biggest Loser" will be an on-site guest at this week's Vol Calls tonight at the Turkey Creek Texas Roadhouse. Be sure to join host Bob Kesling along with guests men's basketball head coach Cuonzo Martin and Lady Vols basketball assistant Mickie DeMoss. 

>> Listen live tonight at 8 p.m. 

ON TOUR: ATP Tour Rankings (2/27/12)

By Amanda Pruitt on February 27, 2012 4:20 PM

Here are the Vols' updated ATP Tour rankings as of Feb. 27, 2012. The Vols are listed by highest singles ranking first. The number in parenthesis denotes change from previous week.


John-Patrick Smith

Singles: 408 (-4)

Doubles: 261 (-3)

Note: Returned to the US to get ready for the USTA Pro Circuit ... Off this week ... Playing next week in Canada.


Rhyne Williams

Singles: 451 (-3)

Doubles: 534 (-2)

Note: Reached the singles semifinals of the Brownsville Futures before losing to eventual champion Peter Polansky of Canada ... Won the doubles title at Brownsville with Tennys Sandgren. The UT pair beat Ruben Gonzales and Chris Kwon 7-6 (4), 6-0 in the title match ... Playing the Harlingen Futures this week in Texas.


Tennys Sandgren

Singles: 544 (-4)

Doubles: 625 (-5)

Note: Reached the quarterfinals of the Brownsville Futures last week in singles ... Won the doubles title at Brownsville with Rhyne Williams. The UT pair beat Ruben Gonzales and Chris Kwon 7-6 (4), 6-0 in the title match  ... Playing the Harlingen Futures this week in Texas.


Adam Hubble

Singles: N/A

Doubles: 474 (-3)

Note: Reached the doubles quarterfinals at the Mildura Futures in Australia last week ... Off this week.


Ben Rogers

Singles: N/A

Doubles: 530 (-5)

Note: Lost in the second round qualifying of the Harlingen Futures.

ON TOUR: Williams, Sandgren Win Third Pro Doubles Title

By Amanda Pruitt on February 27, 2012 2:49 PM
Former Vols Rhyne Williams and Tennys Sandgren teamed up to win their third professional title doubles together Sunday at the Brownsville Futures, a $15,000 event in Texas.

Williams and Sandgren won all four of their matches in straight sets on their way to the title, their second at the $15,000 level. They beat second-seeded Ruben Gonzales and Chris Kwon 7-6 (4), 6-0 in the title match.

The victory will bump Williams into the ATP top 500 in doubles for the first time in his career when the points are added next Monday. Sandgren will crack the top 600.

Williams also reached the semifinals of the singles draw.

The Vol duo are scheduled to play the Harlingen (Texas) Futures . 

Jackson & Poole In NFL Combine

By Jason Yellin on February 27, 2012 1:40 PM
Two Vols are taking part in the NFL Combine in Indianapolis. 

Malik Jackson took part in the Defensive Linemen drills on Monday morning and posted a 4.93 in the 40-yard dash. He did 25 reps in the bench press. He also had a vertical jump of 28.0 inches and a long jump of 105.0 inches. 

On Sunday, running back Tauren Poole posted the following numbers:
Bench Press reps: 24 (4th-most among running backs)
40-Yard Dash: 4.54
Vertical Jump: 34.0 inches
Long Jump: 118.0 inches
3-Cone Drill: 7.36
20-Yard Shuttle: 4.19


Monday Baseball Briefing

By Cameron Harris on February 27, 2012 10:25 AM
The Tennessee baseball team finished off its series sweep of Seton Hall with a 10-2 triumph on Sunday. The Vols are now 7-0 and one of just 14 undefeated teams in the nation. 

For a complete recap of last week's action, check out the Tennessee Baseball Weekly Update.

Here are highlights from Sunday's victory:
 

Check out the media coverage of Sunday's victory:
- Knoxville News Sentinel - Vols show flawless gloves, keep perfect record with sweep of Seton Hall
- Chattanooga Times Free Press - Baseball Vols improve to 7-0
- TNJN.com - Vols stay perfect, sweep Seton Hall

Happy Birthday - Feb. 27: Chris Fritts

By Jason Yellin on February 27, 2012 8:35 AM
On Feb. 27, we wish Happy Birthday to junior outfielder Chris Fritts of the baseball team.

Chris Fritts

Monday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/27)

By Jason Yellin on February 27, 2012 6:27 AM
Head coach Cuonzo Martin will have his weekly press luncheon this afternoon, check back for comments later today as the Vols get ready to travel to LSU for a showdown on Wednesday night. 

Here are the latest stories on the Vols from the media:

- Knoxville News Sentinel: Jarnell Stokes learning his role
- Chattanooga Times Free Press: SEC now leader in diversity

Happy Birthday - Feb. 26: Rohrback, Stevens

By Jason Yellin on February 26, 2012 11:46 AM

On Feb. 26, we wish Happy Birthday to sophomore golfer Kaitlyn Rohrback and freshman pitcher Conner Stevens of the baseball team. 

Kaitlyn Rohrback  Conner Stevens

Sunday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/26)

By Jason Yellin on February 26, 2012 7:54 AM
The Vols continued their mastery over South Carolina with a 73-64 Win last night in Columbia. Check out highlights and Postgame Videos of the wire-to-wire win.


Here are stories from the media in the victory:

- Inside Tennessee: Vols clip Cocks, 73-64

From South Carolina's perspective:

- Anderson Independent Mail: Gamecocks fall to UT in basketball
- Gamecock Central: Gamecocks drop third straight
- Gamecock Central: USC-Tennessee Hoops Extra

Sunday Baseball Briefing

By Cameron Harris on February 26, 2012 7:13 AM
The Tennessee baseball team continued its early season magic with an 11-winning, walk-off win after three straight wild pitches against Seton Hall on Saturday afternoon. The 3-2 victory clinched the series win for the Vols who improve to 6-0 on the year. They will go for the sweep today at noon. Check out the highlights from yesterday's game below.

Here is the media coverage from yesterday's thriller:
- Knoxville News Sentinel - Three wild pitches and the Vols are winners, 3-2
- InsideTennessee.com - Pierce plates game winner
- Volquest - Dramatic win gives Vols second-best start
- TNJN.com - Vols win in extra innings, take 2-0 series lead

Saturday's Baseball Briefing

By Cameron Harris on February 25, 2012 7:49 AM
The Vols opened their three-game series against Seton Hall with a 9-2 victory on Friday, moving their record to 5-0 to start a season for just the sixth time in school history and first time since 2003. Check out the highlights from last night's contest:


Here are links to the media coverage as well:

- Knoxville News Sentinel - Vols not Kidding around with pitching, scoring runs, 9-2
- Volquest - Serrano's Vols race to first 5-0 start since '03
- GoVols247 - Vols smash Seton Hall, 9-2, stay unbeaten
- InsideTennessee.com - Vol baseball making history
- TNJN.com - Baseball beats Seton Hall, off to best start since '03

Happy Birthday - Feb. 25: Cam Clear, Joanna Henderson

By Jason Yellin on February 25, 2012 7:42 AM

On Feb. 25, we wish Happy Birthday to football tight end Cameron Clear and freshman tennis player Joanna Henderson

Cameron Clear  Joanna Henderson

Saturday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/25)

By Jason Yellin on February 25, 2012 7:28 AM
The Vols look for a season sweep of South Carolina as Tennessee plays in Columbia tonight at 8 p.m. Check out GAMEDAY CENTRAL: Vols at Carolina.

Here are the latest media stories on Cuonzo Martin's team:

- Knoxville News Sentinel: Vols streaking into South Carolina
- Chattanooga Times Free Press: UT seeks second road win
- Inside Tennessee: Plugging away

Friday's Tennessee Football Briefing (2/24)

By Jason Yellin on February 24, 2012 1:28 PM
A few stories on the Vols football program on Friday.



- Inside Tennessee has a feature on in-coming freshman Justin King: Future Vol 'a great all-around kid'

 

- Also, from GoVols247, a story on new cornerbacks coach Derrick Ansley: Ansley 'blessed' to coach at UT

Manisha Malhotra Awarded World Trophy

By Andrew Lentz on February 24, 2012 11:19 AM
Four-time All-American Manisha Malhotra was recently honored by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) with the World Trophy, which recognizes outstanding contribution to the development of women's participation in sport and sports administration.

To read more on Malhotra's honor, CLICK HERE.

As a Lady Vol from 1995-98, Malhotra earned doubles All-America distinctions in 1996, 1997 and 1998 and was a singles All-American in 1997.

Malhotra's 108 singles wins rank as the fifth-most in program history, while her 88 doubles victories are 11th all-time at UT.

ON TOUR: Williams, Sandgren into Quarterfinals

By Amanda Pruitt on February 24, 2012 11:16 AM
Rhyne Williams and Tennys Sandgren both won again Thursday to advance to the quarterfinals of the Brownsville (Texas) Futures, a $15,000 event.

Williams had no trouble in his match, conceding only one game while away Takanyi Garanganga  6-0, 6-1. He faces American Gregory Ouellette in the quarterfinals Friday.

Sandgren was also able to pick up a straight-set win, beating former Texas Longhorn ace Dimitar Kutrovsky 7-6 (4), 6-4. He plays fourth-seeded Daniel Cox of the U.S. next.

As a team, Williams and Sandgren will play for their third professional title as a pairing. They beat Vahid Mirzadeh and former Virginia Cavalier Michael Shabaz 6-1, 7-6 (0). The Vol pair, seeded third, play the second-seeded team of Ruben Gonzales and Chris Kwon. 

Blue Gray Classic: Musical Chairs

By Amanda Pruitt on February 24, 2012 9:36 AM

Like most of the older, prestigious tennis tournaments, the Blue Gray National Tennis Classic has a traditional banquet the evening before matches, which start today in Montgomery, Ala. Unlike most tennis banquets -- which are typically just eat-and-leave affairs -- the Blue Gray had several player contests led by Wayne Bryan, a tennis development spokesperson and most famously the father of the top-ranked doubles players in the world: Bob and Mike Bryan.

Thursday's competition ended with a game of musical chairs with each team sending a representative to the field of competition, and the Vols chose freshman Peter Nagovnak. Though they had to explain the rules of musical chairs to him beforehand, Nagovnak still finished fifth in the 16-player field. Vols agree he was unfairly ruled out of a spot in the four-player round.

Happy Birthday - Feb. 24: Antonio Richardson

By Jason Yellin on February 24, 2012 8:23 AM

On Feb. 24, we wish Happy Birthday to rising sophomore lineman Antonio Richardson.

Antonio Richardson

Friday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/24)

By Jason Yellin on February 24, 2012 6:45 AM
The Vols head to South Carolina this evening as they play the Gamecocks tomorrow night in Columbia. Here are the latest stories on the hoopsters.

- Knoxville News Sentinel: Jeronne Maymon stepped up against Ole Miss
- Chattanooga Times Free Press: Cuonzo Martin challenger to John Calipari

Thursday's Tennessee Football Briefing (2/23)

By Jason Yellin on February 23, 2012 8:46 AM
Here are a few stories related to the Vols football program including one on a former Vol and one on a current Vol aiming to return to the field after an injury. 

Thursday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/23)

By Jason Yellin on February 23, 2012 7:12 AM
The Vols rallied from down by as many as 13 points to Win by 13, 73-60 over Ole Miss. The highlight of the night and the No. 1 play on ESPN's SportsCenter throughout Wednesday night was Jordan McRae's high-flying dunk. Check out three angles of the jam here (starting at 1:35 in):


Here are stories from the media:

- Inside Tennessee: Secret weapon lifts Vols

From Mississippi's media:

- Jackson Clarion Ledger: Rebels Dejected
- Jackson Clarion Ledger: What We Learned in Knoxville

Schedule Released for Blue Gray Classic

By Amanda Pruitt on February 22, 2012 4:32 PM

The draw for the Blue Gray National Tennis Classic was released on Wednesday with the Vols scheduled to play a trio of non-conference opponents over the weekend in Montgomery, Ala.


The Vols face Clemson on Friday at 4 p.m., Texas Tech on Saturday at 11 a.m. and Boise State on Sunday. The tournament features a round robin format. The top two teams with the best record will face off in one doubles match to determine the champion.


The prestigious Blue Gray Classic, one of the oldest annual tennis tournaments in the nation, began in 1949 as an individual tournament but adopted a team format in 1984. Tennessee most recently played in the Blue Gray in 2009, winning the title with the help of a 4-0 performance atop the lineup by tournament MVP John-Patrick Smith. Boris Conkic and Matteo Fago went 4-0 in doubles as well.


The full draw is available at this link: HERE.

ON TOUR: Williams, Sandgren Advance in Texas Futures

By Amanda Pruitt on February 22, 2012 11:33 AM
Former Vols Rhyne Williams and Tennys Sandgren won their opening singles matches Wednesday against a pair of current Ole Miss Rebels to advance to the second round of the Brownsville (Texas) Futures.

Williams beat the Rebels' No. 2 player and 2011 NCAA quarterfinalist Marcel Thiemann 6-4, 3-6, 6-1. Sandgren also required a three-setter -- and a late comeback -- to advance in the draw. Down 4-1 in the third set, the former Vol won the last five games to defeat redshirt freshman Nik Scholtz 2-6, 6-1, 6-4.

Sandgren and Williams also teamed up for doubles and breezed through a 6-1, 6-1 victory over Harrison Adams and Nicholas Naumann.

The Vol duo has the day off in singles, but they will be playing doubles, facing Antoine Benneteau and Gregory Ouellette.

Wednesday's Tennessee Football Briefing (2/22)

By Jason Yellin on February 22, 2012 8:24 AM
The NFL Combine gets underway today in Indianapolis with the Vols Malik Jackson & Tauren Poole Set To Perform. Here are a few stories with mentions of the duo along with some other football stories on the current Vols.

Wednesday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/22)

By Jason Yellin on February 22, 2012 7:04 AM
The Vols return home tonight to take on Ole Miss at 7 p.m. Check out GAMEDAY CENTRAL: Vols vs. Ole Miss for the latest info on the game.

Here is a look at the media coverage on the game:

- Knoxville News Sentinel: Fourth-place Vols still 'in a good spot'
- Chattanooga Times Free Press: Vols try not to fret about postseason
- Inside Tennessee: Attack mode
- Associated Press: Martin earns players' respect

CUONZO MARTIN NAMED "LEGEND OF MACKEY"

By Drew Rutherford on February 21, 2012 10:20 AM
Tennessee head coach and former Purdue sharpshooter Cuonzo Martin was recently named one of the Boilermakers' "Legends of Mackey." The contest gives fans the choice to vote for their 12 favorite Boilermakers of all-time, with one being revealed each week until they reach the most popular vote-getter.

Martin, who was a standout in West Lafayette from 1993-95, finished fifth in the contest.

To read more about Cuonzo Martin and the Legends of Mackey, go to PurdueSports.com.

Tuesday's Tennessee Football Briefing (2/21)

By Jason Yellin on February 21, 2012 8:54 AM
The Vols Assisted With the Knoxville-Area Punt, Pass & Kick Event on Monday. Check out a story from Volquest: Vols give back, help with Club's Punt, Pass, Kick event.



Happy Birthday - Feb. 21: Breanna Folk

By Jason Yellin on February 21, 2012 8:42 AM

On Feb. 21, we wish Happy Birthday to junior swimmer Breanna Folk.

Breanna Folk

Tuesday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/21)

By Jason Yellin on February 21, 2012 7:44 AM
The Vols return to Thompson-Boling Arena  to host Ole Miss in the penultimate regular-season home game on Wednesday night. Check out GAMEDAY CENTRAL: Vols vs. Ole Miss and the Martin Media Luncheon Transcript from Monday to get you ready. 


Here are the most recent stories from the media:

Vol Calls Tonight At Texas Roadhouse At 8 p.m.

By Andrew Lentz on February 20, 2012 6:52 PM

Tennessee Head Basketball Coach Cuonzo Martin, Associate Lady Vols Head Basketball Coach Holly Warlick, Kansas City Royals pitcher Luke Hochevar and SEC Diver of the Year Ryan Helms will be on "Vol Calls" tonight at 8 p.m. Eastern / 7 p.m. Central. 

Fans may ask a question by calling 1-800-688-8657 or Verizon customers may dial #TENN. Listeners may also submit a question through the Vol Network-IMG Facebook page.

  • Listen to Vol Calls On UTSports.com/AllAccess

    • ON TOUR: ATP Tour Rankings (2/20/12)

    By Amanda Pruitt on February 20, 2012 11:24 AM

    Here are the Vols' updated ATP Tour rankings as of Feb. 20, 2012. The Vols are listed by highest singles ranking first. The number in parenthesis denotes change from previous week.


    John-Patrick Smith

    Singles: 404 (0)

    Doubles: 262 (+5)

    Note: Returned to the US last week to get ready for the USTA Pro Circuit ... Off this week. 


    Rhyne Williams

    Singles: 448 (+3)

    Doubles: 532 (-1)

    Note: Playing the Brownsville Futures in Texas this week ... Off last week


    Tennys Sandgren

    Singles: 540 (0)

    Doubles: 619 (0)

    Note: Playing the Brownsville Futures in Texas this week ... Off last week


    Adam Hubble

    Singles: N/A

    Doubles: 467 (-1)

    Note: Playing in the Mildura Futures in Australia this week and has already qualified for main draw singles. Seeded second in doubles and playing with Erik Chvojka.


    Ben Rogers

    Singles: N/A

    Doubles: 525 (0)

    Note: Did not play.

    Monday's Tennessee Football Briefing (2/20)

    By Jason Yellin on February 20, 2012 9:47 AM
    The stories on the Vols' new staff members continue. Check out some pieces on new cornerbacks coach Derrick Ansley and defensive line coach John Palermo.

    Mannings Expand Scholarship Endowment For UT Students

    By Jason Yellin on February 20, 2012 7:33 AM
    Seeking to give the greatest gift--a college education--Peyton and Ashley Manning have made a significant investment in the Peyton Manning Scholarship Endowment at the University of Tennessee. Their generous gift will offer financial assistance to two UT students annually.

    Created in 1998, the Peyton Manning Scholarship Endowment is funded from gifts made to the university in honor of Manning's academic awards while he was a UT student-athlete, the UT Athletic Department's corporate matching grants program and other private gifts.

    "The University of Tennessee holds a special place in my heart, and Ashley and I are excited about the opportunity to award more deserving UT students with the Manning Scholarship," said Manning. "One of the most gratifying times for me each summer is meeting a phenomenal student who has been selected for the Manning Scholarship. Making a difference in the lives of young people is the greatest gift any of us can receive."

    To date, fifteen students have received awards from the scholarship. The Manning Scholarship covers the costs of tuition, room, and board. The award is granted to a first-year student on the basis of academic achievement, leadership, and community service. All Peyton Manning Scholarship recipients are part of the Haslam Scholars Program, UT's premiere specialized honors program.

    - Peyton and Ashley Manning Expand Scholarship Endowment for UT Students

    Monday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/20)

    By Jason Yellin on February 20, 2012 7:22 AM
    After a seeing their four-game win streak end at Alabama on Saturday, the Vols are back in action on Wednesday as Ole Miss comes to Thompson-Boling Arena. Coach Cuonzo Martin will meet with the media on Monday for his weekly press luncheon. The Volunteers (14-13, 6-6 SEC) sit in a four-way tie for fourth place in the SEC standings. 

    Here are the latest stories on the Orange and White.

    Sunday Baseball Briefing

    By Cameron Harris on February 19, 2012 11:16 AM
    The Tennessee baseball team got the Dave Serrano era off to a successful start with a series sweep over Northern Illinois this weekend. Below are highlights from the final game of the series.

    Here is a listing of the media coverage of yesterday's doubleheader as well: 

     - Knoxville News Sentinel - Sweep of N. Illinois a 'big step' for Vols
    - Volquest - Vols' starters dominate, lead team to 3-0 start
    - InsideTennessee.com - Baseball Vols bust out brooms
    - TNJN.com - Dave Serrano era begins with a bang
    - TNJN.com - Vols' pitching staff has impressive opening weekend
    - TNJN.com - Vols sweep season-opening series, 7-2
    - TNJN.com - Vols show resolve, hold off Huskies

    Hart Feature In Birmingham News

    By Jason Yellin on February 19, 2012 10:36 AM
    Kevin Scarbinsky has a feature on Tennessee Athletic Director Dave Hart in the Birmingham News on Sunday as the Vols played in Tuscaloosa on Saturday. 

    Among Hart's comments are: "We're trying to do what everybody's trying to do. We're in pursuit of comprehensive excellence" and "I'm extremely pleased and proud of the job Cuonzo and the staff and players have done. We were picked 11th or 12th in the SEC. Right now, we're far from that."

    Check out the full story here: UT AD Dave Hart: Don't doubt Anthony Grant



    Sunday's Tennessee Football Briefing (2/19)

    By Jason Yellin on February 19, 2012 10:27 AM
    The Vols will begin spring football practices in five weeks, with the first session scheduled for March 26. Some former Vols are getting ready for the NFL Combine which starts this coming week as Tauren Poole and Malik Jackson look to impress the NFL teams. 

    Here are a few stories on the Tennessee football program from the Knoxville News Sentinel:

    Sunday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/19)

    By Jason Yellin on February 19, 2012 8:00 AM
    The Vols suffered a 62-50 loss at Alabama on Saturday. The defeat ended UT's win streak at four games. Check out highlights of the game in Tuscaloosa.


    Plus, here are stories from the media:

    - Knoxville News Sentinel: Vols' overinflated bubble gets popped
    - Chattanooga Times Free Press: Tide's defense smothers UT Vols

    News from the Alabama perspective includes:

    Listen Back To Dave Hart On 104.5 The Zone

    By Jason Yellin on February 18, 2012 11:45 AM
    Tennessee Athletic Director Dave Hart was a guest on the Wake Up Zone on 104.5 The Zone in Nashville on Friday morning. You can listen to download the segment right here:

    Happy Birthday - Feb. 18: Andrews, Honeycutt, Outerbridge

    By Jason Yellin on February 18, 2012 11:40 AM

    A trio of birthdays in the Tennessee Athletics student-athlete family today: Celebrating on Feb. 18: softball senior Ashley Andrews, senior runner Charity Honeycutt and sophomore jumper Allison Outerbridge.

    Ashley Andrews  Charity Honeycutt Allison Outerbridge

    Saturday's Baseball Briefing

    By Cameron Harris on February 18, 2012 9:40 AM
    The Tennessee baseball team opened the Dave Serrano era with a 7-1 victory over Northern Illinois on Saturday. Check out the highlights from the game below.


    Here is a listing of the media coverage of the contest as well. 

     - Knoxville News Sentinel - Vols start Dave Serrano era with 7-1 win over Northern Illinois
    - Knoxville News Sentinel - John Adams: Drew Steckenrider doubles up for Vols
    - GoVols247.com - Vols start strong, thump Northern Illinois, 7-1
    - Chattanooga Times Free Press - Vols win 7-1 in Serrano debut
    - InsideTennessee.com - Vols' debut victorious

    Saturday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/18)

    By Jason Yellin on February 18, 2012 7:07 AM
    The Vols look to extend their winning streak at Alabama on Saturday. Check out GAMEDAY CENTRAL: Vols at Alabama and the following previews from the media:


    News from Alabama includes:

    Porteous Named to Preliminary St. Andrews Squad

    By John Painter on February 17, 2012 2:10 PM

    Tennessee's Garrick Porteous was named this week to a preliminary 12-player Great Britain & Ireland squad for this year's St. Andrews Trophy Match against the Continent of Europe.

    The St. Andrews Trophy is an amateur golfing competition that takes place in even-numbered years. Great Britain & Ireland plays the United States in the Walker Cup competition during odd-numbered years.

    Porteous already has been promoted to the England Elite Squad for 2012 and currently stands as England's No. 1 ranked amateur player. Porteous is ranked 59th in the Men's World Amateur Golf Rankings and is England's top player by a comfortable margin. The world ranking compiles the top male amateur golfers on the basis of their average performances in counting events over a rolling cycle of the previous 52 weeks, including his play with the Vols.

    A native of Morpeth in his country's northeastern section, Porteous made his debut for England in the 2011 Home Internationals in Ireland last summer after a string of consistent performances. He narrowly missed out on a national title with a runner-up finish at the Tillman Trophy, and recorded top-10s in major events such as the British Amateur qualifying and European Amateur Championship.

    The GB&I squad for the St. Andrews Trophy meets for the first time July 4-6 at Portmarnock Golf Links in Ireland. Making the preliminary list of 12 players does not ensure a spot on the final nine-man squad, as team selectors will be attending events throughout the summer.

    Porteous finished alone in second earlier this week in his first Vols start of the spring season at the San Diego Intercollegiate. Porteous shot 73-73-69--215 to finish at 1 under par, one stroke behind San Diego's Alex Ching.

    It was Porteous' best collegiate finish and his fourth top-four result in the last year.

    Porteous leads Tennessee with a 72.8 stroke average and has counted toward the team score in 14 of his 15 rounds played. He owns six rounds of par or better.

    Tennessee's next tournament is the John Hayt Collegiate Invitational, set for Feb. 26-28 in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla.

    Celebrating Neyland's Birth, 120 Years Ago Today

    By Jason Yellin on February 17, 2012 1:00 PM

    The General, Robert Reese Neyland was born 120 years ago today on Feb. 17, 1892.  

    The history and tradition of Tennessee football began under the tutelage of Gen. Robert Reese Neyland, a member of the College Football Hall of Fame. Neyland came to Tennessee as an ROTC instructor and backfield coach in 1925 and was named head football coach in 1926. From that date, Tennessee was in the college football business to stay. Neyland's 1939 Vol team was the last to shut out each of its regular season opponents. 

    Over the course of his career, 112 of his 216 opponents failed to score against his Tennessee teams. Tennessee still holds an NCAA record for holding opponents scoreless 71 consecutive quarters. Neyland's teams won Southern Conference Championships in 1927 and 1932, piling up undefeated streaks of 33 and 28 games along the way, and SEC Championships in 1938, 1939, 1940, 1946 and 1951. 

    In addition Neyland coached teams won four national championships. The Vols were consensus national champions in 1951, won the Dunkel, Litkenhous, Boand, Houlgate and Poling National Championships in 1938, the Dunkel and Williamson crowns in 1940 and the DeVold and Dunkel crowns in 1950. It was Gene McEver who kicked off the Neyland era with his 98-yard return of the opening kickoff in the 1928 Alabama game, a game the underdog Vols won, 15-13. Each of his succeeding eras would be highlighted by similar big plays: Johnny Butler's 56-yard run against Alabama in 1939 and Lauricella's 75-yard run against Texas in the 1951 Cotton Bowl. Neyland's 21-year record at Tennessee was 173 wins, 31 losses and 12 ties. 

    Neyland, who came to Tennessee as an Army captain and left as a brigadier general, brought one of the most efficient single-wing offenses in the country to go with an unyielding defense. He was brought to the head coaching position by Dean Nathan Dougherty with a simple injunction: "Do something about the series with Vanderbilt." 

    After Neyland's death in 1962, the University established the Robert R. Neyland Scholarship, academic scholarships awarded to non-athletes, many of whom are National Merit Scholars. The endowment for these scholarships now exceeds $1.5 million and 124 students have been the beneficiary of the awards. 

    The thoroughfare behind the stadium's South end, once called the river road, is now named Neyland Drive. More recently, the Vol football complex on campus was named for Neyland and Knoxville businessman B. Ray Thompson.

    Friday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/17)

    By Jason Yellin on February 17, 2012 10:18 AM
    The Vols head for Tuscaloosa later today. Check out the latest on Cuonzo Martin's squad including a nice feature on Skylar McBee. 

    - Knoxville News Sentinel: Cam Tatum's work ethic doesn't slip

    Happy Birthday - Feb. 17: Hannah Akamine, Joe Berry

    By Jason Yellin on February 17, 2012 10:14 AM

    On Feb. 17, we wish Happy Birthday to softball freshman Hannah Akamine and senior pole vaulter Joe Berry.


    Hannah Akamine  Joe Berry

    Friday's Tennessee Football Briefing (2/17)

    By Jason Yellin on February 17, 2012 7:31 AM
    Tennessee announced it will open the 2012 season on a Friday night in the Chick-Fil-A Kickoff Game, Aug. 31. Check out stories on what will be the first Friday game for the Vols since 1939 -- also against NC State. 

    - Knoxville News Sentinel: Vols to play N.C. State on Aug. 31
    - Chattanooga Times Free Press: UT Vols kicking off on a Friday

    Also on the football front from ESPN.com: Coaching better at top of Dooley's agenda

    Renfroe -- CollegeSports360.com Primetime Performer - 2/16

    By Brian Davis on February 16, 2012 10:11 AM
    After posting a perfect 5-0 record with a 1.13 ERA and 48 strikeouts over 31 innings last weekend at the Kajikawa Classic in Tempe, Ariz., Tennessee sophomore pitcher Ellen Renfroe has been chosen by CollegeSports360.com as one of its "Primetime Pacesetters of the Week" for February 14.  During the weekend the Jackson, Tenn., native managed a shutout of #1 and defending national champion Arizona State on its home field, marking her fourth win over a #1 or #2-ranked team in her career.  Below is an excerpt profiling those selected from over all NCAA Division I athletics, while the link to the complete release is below.

    Six standout Division I student-athletes have been selected for top honors in the current edition of the Primetime Performers Weekly Honor Roll, presented by CollegeSports360.com: BYU record-setting senior miler Miles Batty, Stanford junior tennis player Mallory Burdette, Colorado senior cross-country skier Eliska Hajkova, Northeastern women's hockey junior forward Casey Pickett, Tennessee softball junior pitcher Ellen Renfroe and Princeton freshman women's fencing foilist Ambika Singh.  These six impressive competitors have been tabbed for the top national award, as the CollegeSports360 Primetime Pacesetters of the Week for all of Division I athletics. They are joined by 11 others in comprising the Primetime Performers of the Week, from a sampling of 24 Division I sports that were in action during the week of Feb. 6-12.

    CollegeSports360.com Primetime Performers of the Week - Feb. 14

    Now You Know: JP Arencibia

    By Cameron Harris on February 16, 2012 9:11 AM
    Discover former Vol and current Toronto Blue Jays catcher J.P. Arencibia's favorite cartoon, his favorite movie and more, including a shout-out for former UT football star Jerod Mayo.

    Stories On Dave Hart's Commitment To UT Athletics

    By Jason Yellin on February 16, 2012 7:26 AM
    Tennessee Athletic Director Dave Hart spoke at the Big Orange Tipoff Luncheon Wednesday and had a lot to say about the direction of the department. Check out these stories from the media.

    - Knoxville News Sentinel: UT AD, Dave Hart, puts athletes first
    - Chattanooga Times Free Press: Dave Hart upbeat on Vols football

    Thursday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/16)

    By Jason Yellin on February 16, 2012 7:17 AM
    Six Vols Scored In Double-Figures As Tennessee Beat Arkansas 77-58. Check out Postgame Videos including highlights of the game here:


    Read the media stories following the game:

    - Knoxville News Sentinel: Statement game Vols rout Arkansas, 77-58
    - Associated Press: Vols show off an offense, too
    - Chattanooga Times Free Press: UT's Cameron Tatum a study in toughness
    - Arkansas Online: Vols get rolling with 3s

    Baseball Team Introduced at Men's Basketball Game

    By Cameron Harris on February 15, 2012 9:26 PM
    The Tennessee baseball team made a number of appearances in the first half of the men's basketball game against Arkansas on Wednesday. 

    Head coach Dave Serrano led things off by informing the crowd that it was "Basketball Time in Tennessee!" At halftime, Serrano returned to the court to preview the start of the season on Friday and introduce the 2012 Volunteer baseball team.



    News Sentinel: Dave Hart Puts Athletes First

    By Jason Yellin on February 15, 2012 3:31 PM
    John Adams has a story on UT Athletic Director Dave Hart, who spoke at the Big Orange Tipoff Club on Wednesday: UT AD, Dave Hart, puts athletes first. 

    Adams wrote the following: 

    Dave Hart applauded his predecessor for the University of Tennessee's enhanced athletic facilities, but there's still work to be done, he told the Big Orange Tipoff Club at its weekly luncheon Wednesday.

    "We have some of the finest facilities in America," said Hart, who has served as UT's vice chancellor and athletic director for the last five months. "Mike Hamilton (the previous AD) did a great job)."

    But Hart believes the Vols can do better by their student-athletes.

    "When I toured Thompson-Boling (Arena) for the first time, I started at the top and walked down," he said. "It was first class in every respect.

    "But when I went to our men's and women's locker rooms, I felt like I got in a time warp and went back to the mid-80s."

    Updating those facilities will be a priority of Hart's, who stressed the welfare of UT's student-athletes throughout a brief speech. and a lengthy question-and-answer session that followed.

    "When I talk to prospective student-athletes and their parents, not one time has a parent asked me, 'Mr. Hart, could you show us a sky box?'

    "That's important. It's important to us because we value our donors and alumni."

    But Hart said parents and guardians of recruits are much more interested in where the student-athletes will sleep, eat, train and receive academic support.

    "Can I see the locker room?" they ask.

    "I've always been very student-athlete centered," he said. ""Every decision we make, 'How does it impact them?'

    "We're here representing the University of Tennessee because of the students. ... The priorities (for facilities) will be shifted to those areas that primarily affect the student-athletes."

    He cited the volleyball program as an example in emphasizing the importance of improved conditions for the student-athletes.

    "We need a place for volleyball to practice," he said. "When the hailstorm came through last year, the roof practically caved in at Stokely (Athletic Center). Since then, it has been a hunt-and-peck situation for them."

    Wednesday's Tennessee Football Briefing (2/15)

    By Jason Yellin on February 15, 2012 11:16 AM
    Here are a few stories on the football program as the coordinators are the focal point in both stories.

    Wednesday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/15)

    By Jason Yellin on February 15, 2012 11:06 AM
    The Vols go for four wins in a row tonight as Arkansas comes to Thompson-Boling Arena for an 8 p.m. tip-off. Check out GAMEDAY CENTRAL: Vols vs. Arkansas as well as Cuonzo Martin's preview press conference.

    Here are stories from the media:

    - Associated Press: UT men set for SEC stretch run
    - Chattanooga Times Free Press: Vols' Jordan McRae doing more
    - Scout.com: Chemistry lesson

    News out of Arkansas includes:

    Harris Featured In Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

    By Jason Yellin on February 15, 2012 11:01 AM
    Former Tennessee star Tobias Harris is featured in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel in this story by Michael Hunt: Rookie Harris wise in ways of the NBA.


    Tobias Harris was born July 15, 1992, which means he will not turn 20 until five months from today.

    The Bucks rookie's birthday also gives him two other distinctions.

    It's OK to admit that some of us have socks that are older than Harris.

    And he is the NBA's second-youngest player.

    "Personally, I think I am the youngest," Harris said Tuesday. "I don't know where that other guy came from. I thought during the draft I was the youngest, but now they're saying he's younger than me."

    That would be Bismack Biyombo. Actually, he came from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, a Spanish pro team and to the Charlotte Bobcats via the Sacramento Kings on draft night. None of that is important, except that Biyombo was born 44 days after Harris.

    Read more ... Rookie Harris wise in ways of the NBA

    Happy Birthday - Feb. 15 - A.Johnson, L.Langworthy

    By Jason Yellin on February 15, 2012 10:09 AM

    On Feb. 15, we wish Happy Birthday to track's Amirah Johnson and soccer's Lara Langworthy.

    Amirah Johnson  Lara Langworthy

    Wednesday Tennessee Baseball Briefing

    By Cameron Harris on February 15, 2012 9:22 AM
    The Tennessee baseball team held its preseason media day on Tuesday where head coach Dave Serrano unveiled a new set of jerseys. Check out Serrano's press conference video below.
     


    Here are stories from the media:

    - Knoxville News Sentinel: Zack Godley brings clean slate on the mound for Vols 

    - Knoxville News Sentinel: Vols' pitching staff will be work in progress 

    - InsideTennessee: Vol baseball to start Serrano era 

    - Volquest: Serrano's Vols eye 55 opportunities

    Vol Calls Tonight At Texas Roadhouse At 8 p.m.

    By Andrew Lentz on February 14, 2012 7:46 PM

    Tennessee Head Basketball Coach Cuonzo Martin, Assistant Lady Vols Basketball Coach Mickie DeMoss and UT guard Skylar McBee will be on "Vol Calls" tonight at 8 p.m. Eastern / 7 p.m. Central. 

    Fans may ask a question by calling 1-800-688-8657 or Verizon customers may dial #TENN. Listeners may also submit a question through the Vol Network-IMG Facebook page.

  • Listen to Vol Calls On UTSports.com/AllAccess

    • Tuesday's Tennessee Football Briefing (2/14)

    By Jason Yellin on February 14, 2012 10:06 AM
    Here are a few stories on the football program on Tuesday including ESPN.com's look at the Vols during the offseason.

    - Inside Tennessee: 'A lot of bright spots'

    Tuesday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/14)

    By Jason Yellin on February 14, 2012 7:21 AM
    Cuonzo Martin met with the media on Monday for his weekly press luncheon. Check it out here.


    Here are stories from the media the followed:

    - Knoxville News Sentinel: Vols' learning curve requires patience
    - Knoxville News Sentinel: Update on Stokes injury, team chemistry
    - ESPN.com: Roundball chatter

    Monday's Tennessee Football Briefing (2/13)

    By Jason Yellin on February 13, 2012 1:00 PM
    The Vols start Spring Football practice in 42 days on March 26. Check out the latest news on the Orange & White. 

    - Chattanooga Times Free Press: UT Vols double up in secondary
    - Anderson Independent Mail: Better days could be ahead for Tauren Poole

    ON TOUR: ATP Tour Rankings (2/13/12)

    By Amanda Pruitt on February 13, 2012 9:36 AM

    Here are the Vols' updated ATP Tour rankings as of Feb. 13, 2012. The Vols are listed by highest singles ranking first. The number in parenthesis denotes change from previous week.


    John-Patrick Smith

    Singles: 404 (+27)

    Doubles: 262 (+97)

    Note: Jumped up again in the ATP doubles rankings thanks to his second-consecutive Challenger title with John Peers ... the two teamed up to win the Caloundra International, beating top-seeded John Paul Fruttero and Raven Klaasen 7-6 (5), 6-4 in the final ... Also moved up in singles after winning a round at Caloundra ... Off this week. 


    Rhyne Williams

    Singles: 451 (+36)

    Doubles: 531 (+14)

    Note: Williams is now at a career best in singles after points were added from his finals appearance at the Palm Coast Futures in Florida ... Also a career-high in doubles as he and Tennys Sandgren reached the semifinals at Palm Coast ... Williams was granted a wild card into the main draw of the $100,000 Dallas Challenger last week where he lost to former US Open semifinalist Robby Ginepri.


    Tennys Sandgren

    Singles: 540 (+2)

    Doubles: 619 (+21)

    Note: Reached a career-high in doubles after points were added for his semifinal appearance with Rhyne Williams at the Palm Coast (Fla.) Futures ... Off last week ... Off this week.


    Adam Hubble

    Singles: N/A

    Doubles: 466 (+43)

    Note: Reached the quarterfinals of the Caloundra International with Erik Chvojka ... Off this week.


    Ben Rogers

    Singles: N/A

    Doubles: 525 (-17)

    Note: Did not play.

    Watson Starts, Nets 22 For Chicago Bulls

    By Jason Yellin on February 13, 2012 9:30 AM

    Tennessee product C.J. Watson had a big game on Saturday as his Bulls lost to the Celtics, 95-91. Watson poured in 22 points, his second-highest scoring game of the season, as he subbed for an injured Derrick Rose (back). Watson also handed out six assists. It was the third time this season Watson scored 20-plus points. 

    For the year Watson is averaging 10.4 points and 4.3 assists per game with the Bulls, seeing action in 20 games with five starts. 

    Here are some recent stories on Watson:


    The other Vol in the NBA Tobias Harris is averaging 6.1 points in 16 games with the Bucks. He has seen limited time in recent games after tallying a career-high 19 vs. the Bulls on Feb. 4.

    Monday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/13)

    By Jason Yellin on February 13, 2012 6:49 AM
    Riding a three-game winning streak, Cuonzo Martin and the Vols are getting reading for a visit from Arkansas on Wednesday night. Check out the latest stories on the team as they continue to make major strides.

    Happy Birthday - Feb. 12 - Chessey Thomas, Evan Volner

    By Jason Yellin on February 12, 2012 12:54 PM

    On Feb. 12 we wish Happy Birthday to sophomore golfer Chessey Thomas and football lineman Evan Volner.


    Chessey Thomas  Evan Volner

    Sunday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/12)

    By Jason Yellin on February 12, 2012 8:44 AM
    Tennessee won its first road game with a stunning 75-70 win at No. 8/7 Florida, check the recap Vols Sweep #8/7 Gators With 75-70 Win along with Postgame Videos: Vols 75, Gators 70 including highlights.


    Here are stories from the media:
     
    - Chattanooga Times Free Press: Vols' first road win at No. 8 Florida
    - ESPN.com: What We Learned
    - Inside Tennessee: Sweet sweep

    From the Florida perspective:
    - Independent Florida Alligator: Vols end Gators' 19-game home winning streak

    Sunday's Tennessee Football Briefing (2/12)

    By Jason Yellin on February 12, 2012 8:43 AM
    Check out the following stories on the football team from Sunday's news, mostly touching on assistant coaches:

    - Chattanooga Times Free Press: UT Vols anxious till signing LaDarrell McNeil

    ON TOUR: Smith, Peers Win Back-to-Back Titles

    By Amanda Pruitt on February 11, 2012 10:06 PM
    Former Vol John-Patrick Smith and Baylor standout John Peers accepted their second winner's trophy in as many weeks Sunday in Australia. 

    A week after winning in the Burnie International, Smith and Peers secured back-to-back Challenger doubles titles with a 7-6 (5), 6-4 victory over the top-seeded team of John Paul Fruttero and Raven Klaasen in the final of the Caloundra International.

    The collegiate duo rolled through all four matches in Caloundra in straight sets. Their semifinal match took just 48 minutes. 

    In two weeks, Smith and Peers accumulated an 8-0 record and bagged a shared $6,200 and 160 tour points each. Smith has won five professional doubles titles, having won three $10,000 Futures events last year with Ben Rogers.

    Smith will crack the top 300 in the ATP doubles rankings on Monday for the first time in his career. He is currently ranked No. 431 in singles, highest for Vols currently on the professional tour.

    Happy Birthday - Feb. 11 - DeeDee Harrison & Jessica Rolfs

    By Jason Yellin on February 11, 2012 9:04 PM

    On Feb. 11, a pair of birthdays as soccer goalkeeper Jessica Rolfs and volleyball middle blocker DeeDee Harrison celebrate.

    Jessica Rolfs  DeeDee Harrison

    Saturday's Tennessee Football Briefing (2/11)

    By Jason Yellin on February 11, 2012 7:15 AM
    Check out the feature story on the Vols new Football Training Center in the Knoxville News Sentinel: Bringing the 'wow' factor Dooley leads tour new practice facility

    Here are other football stories: 

    Saturday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/11)

    By Jason Yellin on February 11, 2012 7:09 AM
    The Vols look to sweep the season series from Florida today as Tennessee plays in Gainesville at 4 p.m. Check out GAMEDAY CENTRAL: Vols at Florida as well as these previews from the media. 

    Friday's Tennessee Football Briefing (2/10)

    By Jason Yellin on February 10, 2012 9:06 AM
    Check out more stories from the media following Wednesday's media session with the Vols' assistant coaches. 


    Happy Birthday - Feb. 10: Alex Ellis

    By Jason Yellin on February 10, 2012 8:51 AM

    Happy Birthday on Feb. 10 to rising sophomore wide receiver Alex Ellis.

    Alex Ellis

    Friday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/10)

    By Jason Yellin on February 10, 2012 7:12 AM
    The men's basketball team will head to No. 8 Florida this evening as the Vols take on the Gators on Saturday at 4 p.m.

    Here are the most recent stories on Cuonzo Martin's team.

    - Knoxville News Sentinel: Skylar McBee growing into hometown hero
    - Tennessee Journalist: Kenny Hall steps up in Stokes absence

    ON TOUR: Smith, Peers Cruise to Consecutive Final

    By Amanda Pruitt on February 9, 2012 10:43 PM
    Forty-eight minutes. Nine aces. 

    That's all it took for former Vol John-Patrick Smith and Baylor standout John Peers to book a trip to their second-consecutive Challenger final Friday in Australia. The collegiate pair dispatched the Australian pair of James Lemke and Dane Propoggia 6-3, 6-2 in the semifinals of the Caloundra International.

    Smith and Peers have now won seven consecutive matches since teaming up to win the Burnie International last week, the first Challenger-level title for either player. They have already picked up 128 doubles points during that time, plus $4,900 in prize money. Smith moved up 229 spots in the doubles rankings to No. 359 in the world last week and now stands to crack the top 300. Peers is No. 264.

    Smith and Peers have the day off Saturday when the other semifinal match is played. 

    Smith is now 30-12 in his professional doubles career with four titles.

    ON TOUR: Smith, Peers Roll into Semifinals

    By Amanda Pruitt on February 9, 2012 9:33 AM
    Former Vol John-Patrick Smith and Baylor standout John Peers collected for their sixth consecutive Challenger win to roll into the semifinals Thursday at the Caloundra International in Australia.

    Smith and Peers knocked off the second-seeded Taipei team of Cheng-Peng Hsieh and Hsin-Han Lee 6-2, 6-3 in their quarterfinal match of the $50,000 Challenger event.

    They face James Lemke and Dane Propoggia in Friday's semifinal.

    Coming off their tournament victory last week at the Burnie International, Smith and Peers have opened the Caloundra tournament with a pair of straight-set wins. The collegiate duo have already racked up 109 ATP tour points each; prior to teaming up with Peers, Smith only had 78 points.

    Smith's run in singles ended in the second round with a 6-4, 7-5 loss on Wednesday.

    In Dallas: After a tight two sets, Rhyne Williams lost to former U.S. Open semifinalist Robby Ginepri 6-7, 7-6, 6-0 in the opening round of the $100,000 Dallas Challenger on Tuesday. Williams was a wild card into the event.

    Happy Birthday - Feb. 9: Kolosky, Lanier, Murphy

    By Jason Yellin on February 9, 2012 9:15 AM

    A trio of birthdays among Tennessee student-athletes on Feb. 9. Happy birthday to freshman volleyball middle blocker Shealyn Kolosky, rising junior defensive back Izauea Lanier of the football team and junior men's basketball forward Rob Murphy.

    Shealyn Kolosky  Izauea Lanier  Rob Murphy

    Thursday's Tennessee Football Briefing (2/9)

    By Jason Yellin on February 9, 2012 8:47 AM
    The football assistant coaches met with the media on Wednesday. Check out the Vol Report: Time to Teach as well as Videos Of Vols Football Asst. Coaches to see and hear what the nine men assisting coach Derek Dooley had to say.

    Here are stories from the media on the staff:

    - Chattanooga Times Free Press: New coaches set to revamp Vols defense
    - Inside Tennessee: 'Explosive' attack
    - Inside Tennessee: Dynamic duo

    Thursday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/9)

    By Jason Yellin on February 9, 2012 7:15 AM
    The Vols Won Their 10th Game In Row Vs. South Carolina, 69-57 on Wednesday night. Check highlights and Postgame Videos.


    Here are stories from the media.

    - Inside Tennessee: McBee stings Gamecocks
    - Greenville News: McBee stings USC with 18
    - Garnet and Black Attack: South Carolina at Tennessee: A Quick Recap

    Ethan Bennett and Brother Play National Anthem, Rocky Top at Men's Hoops Game

    By Cameron Harris on February 9, 2012 1:13 AM
    Sophomore catcher Ethan Bennett and his older brother Cody showed off their musical abilities on Wednesday night as they performed both the national anthem and 'Rocky Top' at the men's basketball game vs. South Carolina. Ethan played the banjo while Cody played the guitar.

    Wednesday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/8)

    By Jason Yellin on February 8, 2012 8:27 AM
    The Vols seek their second win a row as South Carolina comes to Thompson-Boling Arena. Check out GAMEDAY CENTRAL: Vols vs. Carolina along with these previews from the media:

    - Knoxville News Sentinel: Maymon: mid-season Tennessee MVP
    - Chattanooga Times Free Press: Toughness focus for Vols' Jeronne Maymon
    - Inside Tennessee: McRae makes magic

    News from South Carolina includes
    - Charleston Post Courier: USC looks to improve on abysmal SEC start
    - Greenville News: Gamecocks visit Rocky Top

    Happy Birthday - Feb. 9: Track's Chase Brannon

    By Jason Yellin on February 8, 2012 8:20 AM

    Happy Birthday on Feb. 9 to sophomore pole vaulter Chase Brannon.

    Chase Brannon

    Wednesday's Tennessee Football Briefing (2/8)

    By Jason Yellin on February 8, 2012 7:20 AM
    Tennessee's assistant football coaches will meet with the media on Wednesday, be sure to check back for interviews and coverage later in the day.

    On Tuesday, it was announced Spring Football Practice Starts March 26 and that Malik Jackson and Tauren Poole Were Invited To NFL Combine. Check out coverage of the two news items here:

    - Tennessee Journalist: Poole, Jackson invited to NFL Combine

    Happy Birthday - Feb. 7 - Track's David Hayes

    By Jason Yellin on February 7, 2012 2:33 PM
    Happy Birthday on Feb . 7 to freshman sprinter David Hayes.

    David Hayes

    Tuesday's Tennessee Football Briefing (2/7)

    By Jason Yellin on February 7, 2012 8:19 AM
    Vols head coach Derek Dooley took part in various media interviews on Monday. Take a look at what he had to say:


    WBIR with Steve Phillips: Derek Dooley talks with WBIR




    From the Sports Animal's Sportstalk with Jimmy Hyams and John Wilkerson, listen back to the interview in these segments:

    The interview starts in the first segment at the 5:35 mark:

    Tuesday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/7)

    By Jason Yellin on February 7, 2012 8:12 AM
    Basketball coach Cuonzo Martin and Jeronne Maymon met with the media on Monday. Check out the Martin Media Luncheon Transcript and these videos from the session:


    Other news includes:

    - Knoxville News Sentinel: Vols can't cut the downtrodden any breaks

    ON TOUR: Smith Collects First Singles Win of 2012

    By Amanda Pruitt on February 6, 2012 11:18 PM
    Former Vol John-Patrick Smith collected his first singles win of the year Tuesday, but it did not come easily. Needing a comeback after a slow start, Smith rallied to beat former Arkansas standout Blake Strode 3-6, 7-5, 6-3 in the opening round of the Caloundra International in Australia. 

    Coming off his first doubles Challenger title last week in Burnie, Smith is still in both singles and doubles heading into Wednesday. He faces fifth-seeded Ben Mitchell, a fellow Aussie ranked No. 221 on the ATP circuit.

    In Dallas: Rhyne Williams plays former U.S. Open semifinal Robby Ginepri in the first round of the YP Challenger of Dallas on Tuesday. His match is scheduled to be third on the stadium court. Live video and commentary can be found here: Link.

    Listen Back To Coach Dooley's Interview On Sportstalk

    By Jason Yellin on February 6, 2012 9:05 PM
    Vols head coach Derek Dooley took part in an interview on the Sports Animal's Sportstalk with Jimmy Hyams and John Wilkerson on Monday. Listen back to the interview in these segments:

    The interview starts in the first segment at the 5:35 mark:

    Vol Calls Tonight At Texas Roadhouse At 8 p.m.

    By Jason Yellin on February 6, 2012 4:14 PM
    Vol Calls will take place tonight at the Texas Roadhouse in Turkey Creek, starting at 8 p.m. Scheduled to join Bob Kesling of the Vol Network are men's basketball head coach Cuonzo Martin, women's basketball assistant coach Dean Lockwood and 2012 Tennessee Baseball Hall of Fame inductee R.A. Dickey. A segment will also include an interview with football coach Derek Dooley. 


    ON TOUR: Williams Falls in Final; Collegiate Duo Wins in Oz

    By Amanda Pruitt on February 6, 2012 10:33 AM

    Rhyne Williams' bid for a third career professional title was cut short Sunday at the Palm Coast Futures in Florida. Playing in his fifth ITF Futures final, Williams lost 6-2, 6-3 to rising Australian prospect Jason Kubler.


    Williams now heads to Texas, where he has been given a USTA main draw wild card into the YP Challenger of Dallas, a $100,000 event. He will face a familiar foe in the first round: American veteran and 2005 U.S. Open semifinalist Robby Ginepri.


    Williams has faced Ginepri twice before. Williams defeated him in a Challenger in California last summer, but Ginepri won the most recent meeting, beating Williams 7-5, 6-2 in the semifinals of the USTA Australian Open Wild Card Playoffs in December. 


    Former Vol Tennys Sandgren was in the qualifying of the Dallas Challenger but lost 6-2, 5-7, 6-3 to Kevin Kim on Sunday in the second round.


    In Australia: Coming off their first Challenger title at the Burnie International, former four-time All-American John-Patrick Smith and Baylor standout John Peers picked up where they left off by winning their first doubles match Monday to start the Caloundra International.


    With a break in both sets, Smith and Peers beat Sam Groth and Adam Feeney 6-3, 7-5 to reach the quarterfinals. Former Vol Adam Hubble also won his opening doubles match with Erik Cvojka. They earned a 6-4, 6-3 victory over alternates Gero Kretschmer and Nick Lindahl.


    Smith faces former Arkansas All-American Blake Strode to start singles on Tuesday.

    Harris Nets NBA Career-High 19 With Bucks

    By Jason Yellin on February 6, 2012 9:47 AM

    Former Vols star Tobias Harris scored a career-high 19 points in the Bucks 113-90 loss to the Bulls on Saturday. 

    Here are a few stories mentioning Harris:

    - Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Bucks get some time to pick up the pieces

    ON TOUR: ATP Tour Rankings (2/6/12)

    By Amanda Pruitt on February 6, 2012 9:45 AM

    Here are the Vols' updated ATP Tour rankings as of Feb. 6, 2012. The Vols are listed by highest singles ranking first. The number in parenthesis denotes change from previous week.


    John-Patrick Smith

    Singles: 431 (0)

    Doubles: 359 (+226)

    Note: Skyrocketed up the ATP doubles rankings thanks to a tournament win at the Burnie International in Australia ... He and former Baylor All-American John Peers beat Vishnu Vardhan and Divij Sharan 6-2, 6-4 in the final, where they earned $3,100 and 80 tour points ... Smith and Peers are playing together again this week at the Caloundra International where they won their first round already.


    Rhyne Williams

    Singles: 487 (+22)

    Doubles: 545 (+2)

    Note: Williams has been on a successful run in the Florida Futures circuit in January, reaching the semifinals at Weston and the finals Sunday at Palm Coast ... the points from his semifinal performance at the Weston Futures pushed Williams in the top 500 for the first time in his career and the 10 points he earned from Palm Coast will be assessed next Monday ... Williams was granted a wild card into the main draw of the $100,000 Dallas Challenger this week.


    Tennys Sandgren

    Singles: 542 (-2)

    Doubles: 640 (+1)

    Note: Reached the second round of the Palm Coast (Fla.) Futures and made it to the doubles semifinals with Rhyne Williams ... Those points will be added next week ... Made it to the second round of qualifying of the Dallas Challenger over the weekend, where he lost to Kevin Kim in three sets Sunday. 


    Ben Rogers

    Singles: N/A

    Doubles: 508 (+6)

    Note: Did not play.


    Adam Hubble

    Singles: N/A

    Doubles: 509 (+54)

    Note: Reached the quarterfinals of the Burnie International with Erik Chvojka ... Playing this week at the Caloundra International, where he won his first round Monday.

    More Stories On Vols In The Super Bowl

    By Jason Yellin on February 6, 2012 8:35 AM
    Deon Grant played a key role in the Giants 21-17 Super Bowl win over the Patriots on Sunday night. The former Vols defensive back made six tackles and was in on the final play -- Tom Brady's failed Hail Mary pass -- as Grant went up to knock down the pass. For Grant, the win was special as he just finished his 12th year in the NFL.


    Here are some media stories that mention Grant as well as two former Vols with New England Jerod Mayo (who tied for the most tackles in the game with 11) and Shaun Ellis, who had two stops.

    Monday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/6)

    By Jason Yellin on February 6, 2012 7:00 AM
    Cuonzo Martin will meet with the media today at 12 Noon in his weekly press luncheon. Here are the latest articles on the men's basketball team. 

    - Inside Tennessee: Pure shooter

    Porteous Finishes 40th at Jones Cup

    By John Painter on February 6, 2012 12:29 AM

    Garrick Porteous closed with a 77 Sunday and finished in a tie for 40th place at the Jones Cup Invitational in Sea Island, Ga.

    Porteous matched his Saturday total of five birdies but couldn't overcome eight bogeys and one double bogey over his final 18 holes to finish at 15-over-par 231. For the weekend, Porteous fired rounds of 80, 72 and 77 at Ocean Forest Golf Club.

    The Jones Cup brought together 90 of the finest amateur golfers from the United States and abroad for a three-day competition that kicks off the spring portion of the golf season. The final leaderboard can be found at Golfstat.com.

    The Vols open their spring schedule Feb. 13-14 at the San Diego Intercollegiate Classic, a brand new tournament hosted by San Diego State University. The event takes place at historic San Diego Country Club in Chula Vista, Calif.

    Super Bowl Sunday! Stories On Vols In The Big Game

    By Jason Yellin on February 5, 2012 8:45 AM
    Check out the latest stories that focus on former Vols Shaun Ellis, Deon Grant and Jerod Mayo as they play in the Super Bowl on Sunday night.


    - Indianapolis Star: Snapping into a good place

    Sunday's Tennessee Football Briefing (2/5)

    By Jason Yellin on February 5, 2012 8:33 AM
    In his latest article in the Knoxville News Sentinel after his interview with Derek Dooley, Austin Ward wrote: Kentucky loss 'will bother me for the rest of my life'. 


    The Chattanooga Times Free Press has this story: UT Vols got 'playmakers,' not just receivers.

    GoVols247 has this story: Dooley 'willing' to back Bonner

    Sunday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/5)

    By Jason Yellin on February 5, 2012 7:49 AM
    The Vols Pulled Away From Georgia, To Win 73-62 last night at Thompson-Boling Arena to move to 10-3 at home this season. Check all the Postgame Videos and more.


    Here are the recaps and sidebars from the media:

    - Knoxville News Sentinel: Scouting report depends on Jordan McRae
    - Inside Tennessee: McRae makes magic
    - Volquest: McRae comes through
    - Atlanta Journal Constitution: Bulldogs come up short on the road

    Happy Birthday - Feb. 5: Marina Ribi

    By Jason Yellin on February 5, 2012 7:21 AM

    On Feb. 5, we wish Happy Birthday to junior swimmer Marina Ribi.

    Marina Ribi

    Porteous Improves Standing in Georgia

    By John Painter on February 4, 2012 8:44 PM

    Tennessee's Garrick Porteous improved six strokes Saturday and jumped 14 places in the standings through two rounds of the Jones Cup Invitational in Sea Island, Ga.

    Porteous began on the 10th hole and couldn't have gotten off to a much better start en route to his 2-over-par 74. After opening the tournament Friday with an 80, he birdied four of his first six holes Saturday and finished the day with five birdies at the Ocean Forest Golf Club.

    The Vols senior captain is at 10-over 154 for the tournament and tied for 37th place in the 90-player field heading into Sunday's final round.

    The Jones Cup brings together many of the finest amateurs from the United State and abroad for the three-day competition.

    Saturday's updated leaderboard can be found at Golfstat.com.

    ON TOUR: Williams into Final at Palm Coast (Fla.) Futures

    By Amanda Pruitt on February 4, 2012 4:55 PM
    Former Vol Rhyne Wiliams reached his fifth career professional tennis final Saturday thanks to another straight-set victory at the Palm Coast (Fla.) Futures.

    Williams knocked off sixth-seeded Gabriel Moraru 6-2, 6-4 in the semifinals to reach the title match of the $10,000 level tournament. He faces Australian prospect Jason Kubler in Sunday's final. 

    Williams has won his first four matches in straight sets in the tournament. Last week, he reached the semifinals of the Weston (Fla.) Futures. The Knoxville native has reached five finals and won two Futures titles in his career: in Pittsburgh in 2007 and 2011 in Innisbrook, Fla.

    On Monday, he will crack the top 500 ATP singles ranking for the first time in his career.

    And in Dallas: Tennys Sandgren beat wildcard Charles Boyce 6-2, 6-4 to advance to the second round of qualifying at the Dallas Challenger, a $100,000 event. He faces the sixth seed in qualifying, Kevin Kim, on Sunday. 

    Saturday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/4)

    By Jason Yellin on February 4, 2012 11:44 AM
    For the fifth Saturday in a row, the basketball team will host a game at Thompson-Boling Arena. Tonight, Tennessee welcomes Georgia, check out GAMEDAY CENTRAL: Vols vs. Georgia. Here is a preview of the game:


    Check out what the media is writing about the game:

    - Knoxville News Sentinel: Jarnell Stokes ready to get more physical
    - Chattanooga Times Free Press: UT's Tatum stuck in shooting slump

    News from Georgia includes:

    ON TOUR: Smith Captures Doubles Challenger Title in Australia

    By Amanda Pruitt on February 4, 2012 11:40 AM
    Former Vol John-Patrick Smith and recently graduated Baylor standout John Peers won their first career doubles titles at the Challenger level Saturday. 

    Smith and Peers never faced a break point as they cruised to a quick 6-2, 6-4 victory over big-serving Vishnu Vardhan and Divij Sharan in the finals of the Burnie International in Burnie, Australia. 

    The collegiate All-American pair split $3,100 in prize money and each received 80 tour points. With the points, Smith will move up from No. 585 in the world to the top 400 when new rankings are released Monday.

    Smith and Peers did not have any time to enjoy their win. They had to travel immediately to the next stop: the Caloundra International in Caloundra, Australia. Both made the main draw cut in singles of the $50,000 Challenger event.

    Latest News On Vols In The Super Bowl

    By Jason Yellin on February 4, 2012 8:47 AM
    Three Vols are seeking to win their first Super Bowl on Sunday as the Giants take on the Patriots. Check out our story: Tennessee Pride For Vols In Super Bowl and video feature:

    Here are more stories form the media on Shaun Ellis, Jerod Mayo and Deon Grant.


    Signing Day By the Numbers

    By Cameron Harris on February 4, 2012 8:32 AM
    For many college football fans, National Signing Day seems like Christmas in February. This year, UTSports.com went all out to provide Vol fans with up-to-the-second information about Tennessee's signing class with a FaxCam, constant updates via Twitter, complete signee bios, video highlights and much, much more. 

    Tennessee fans, the best in the country, ate it all up. Below is a statistical recap of 2012 National Signing Day at Tennessee.

    - 252,312 total page impressions on the UTSports.com Signing Day Central. That ranked fifth in the CBS Sports Interactive Network. Here are the top 5:      1. Alabama (394,139), 2. Michigan (290,143), 3. Notre Dame (271,590), 4. Oklahoma (266,231), 5. Tennessee (252,312).

    - 99,451 total views on all of the videos (live and highlights) provided on UTSports.com
    - 53,070 views of the "FaxCam" live video stream
    - 24,469 combined views of the individual signee highlight videos
    - 15,774 views of the list of signees alone
    - The top three most-viewed player bios were  junior college wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson, junior college defensive tackle Daniel McCullers and high school running back Davante Borque
    - With 5,263 views, Bourque's highlight video led the way
    - 9,376 fans tuned in live to UTSports.com to watch Coach Dooley's signing day press conference
    - 112 total Twitter updates through the official Tennessee football Twitter account, @Vol_Football, which currently sports over 26,000 followers
    - Those tweets were retweeted over 600 times by Vol fans

    The top two retweeted posts are below:

    On the day after National Signing Day, Vol fans were asked about their favorite part of UTSports.com's coverage. Here are a few of their comments:

    Saturday's Tennessee Football Briefing (2/4)

    By Jason Yellin on February 4, 2012 8:22 AM
    The technology has changed, and to Derek Dooley, that's part of the problem. With cell phones, social media and the Internet constantly available, the way players communicate now is obviously different than when Tennessee's football coach was in school. Check out Austin Ward's story:

    Team-building process includes video games for Vols in the Knoxville News Sentinel.

    Here are additional stories on the Vols' hiring of Derrick Ansley as Cornerbacks Coach.

    - Knoxville News Sentinel: The Derrick Ansley File
    - Inside Tennessee: Q&A with Derek Dooley
    - Tennessee Journalist: Vols announce new cornerbacks coach

    Happy Birthday - Feb. 4: Curt Maggitt

    By Jason Yellin on February 4, 2012 8:12 AM
    On Feb. 4, we wish Happy Birthday to rising sophomore linebacker Curt Maggitt.

    Porteous Opens Jones Cup Play

    By John Painter on February 3, 2012 11:23 PM

    Tennessee's Garrick Porteous is middle of the pack after Day 1 the Jones Cup Invitational in Sea Island, Ga.

    Porteous opened the prestigious amateur tournament by shooting 40 on both nines for a first round of 8-over-par 80 at Ocean Pines Golf Club. The Vols senior captain is tied for 51st place in the 90-player field. First-round scores can be found at Golfstat.com.

    The Jones Cup brings together many of the finest amateurs from the United States and abroad for the three-day competition. Past participants include current PGA Tour stars Luke Donald, Rickie Fowler, Lucas Glover, Dustin Johnson, Chris Kirk, Jeff Overton, Webb Simpson, Brandt Snedeker, Bubba Watson and Gary Woodland.

    Porteous tees off for Saturday's second round at 9:40 a.m.

    ON TOUR: Smith Reaches Doubles Finals at Burnie

    By Amanda Pruitt on February 3, 2012 9:20 AM
    Former Vol John-Patrick Smith and recent Baylor graduate John Peers breezed through their semifinal match in 43 minutes Friday to punch their ticket for the doubles championship at the Burnie International in Burnie, Australia.

    Smith and Peers, both standout doubles players on the college level, knocked off Sabastian Riechick and Danai Udomchoke 6-0, 6-3 in the semifinals of the $50,000 Challenger event. 

    In their first Challenger final appearance, Smith and Peers take on the fourth-seeded Indian duo of Divij Sharan and Vishnu Vardhan. A victory would put Smith in the top 400 in the ATP doubles rankings. He started the week No. 585.

    In Florida: Rhyne Williams defeated Sergio Gutierrez-Ferrol 6-4, 6-3 to reach the quarterfinals of the Palm Coast Futures. He faces Petru-Alexandru Luncanu of Romania on Friday.

    Luncanu beat Williams' doubles partner and former Vol Tennys Sandgren 7-6 (3), 6-3 in the second round.

    Friday's Tennessee Football Briefing (2/3)

    By Jason Yellin on February 3, 2012 8:28 AM
    Vols coach Derek Dooley spent time with members of the media on Thursday following Signing Day 2012, here are some stories on the UT football program.

    - Inside Tennessee: Q&A with Derek Dooley

    Friday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/3)

    By Jason Yellin on February 3, 2012 6:53 AM
    The men's basketball team will host three of its next four games at Thompson-Boling Arena starting with Saturday night's match-up vs. Georgia. Coach Cuonzo Martin and the Vols met with the media prior to practice on Thursday, here are some stories on the Vols.

    - Knoxville News Sentinel: Jarnell Stokes ready to get more physical
    - Inside Tennessee: Rhythm and Blue

    Derek Dooley On With 3HL 104.5 Radio In Nashville

    By Jason Yellin on February 2, 2012 4:45 PM
    Check out the interview with Tennessee head coach Derek Dooley on 104.5 The Zone in Nashville as he was on with Brent, Clay and Blaine. 

    - UT Vols Coach Derek Dooley with the 3HL

    Vols Move up to No. 18 in ITA Team Polls

    By Amanda Pruitt on February 2, 2012 1:25 PM
    The Vols jumped up six spots to No. 18 in the latest ITA national team poll, the college tennis governing body announced Thursday.

    Tennessee (4-1) is coming off a pair of victories, beating Michigan State 4-2 and Mississippi 4-3 to earn a spot in the ITA National Team Indoor Championships for the fourth consecutive season. 

    Mikelis Libietis picked up the first SEC Freshman of the Week honors for his unbeaten performance at the No. 1 singles and doubles positions. Redshirt freshman Hunter Reese provided the clinching point against Mississippi in the ITA Kick-Off Weekend.

    On Sunday, the Vols host No. 19 Illinois, which is coming off a 1-1 showing in its ITA Kick-Off Weekend tournament at Georgia Tech. The Illini lost to North Carolina 4-2 before beating Georgia Tech 4-3.

    ON TOUR: Vols Advance in Australia, Florida

    By Amanda Pruitt on February 2, 2012 10:12 AM
    Former Vol John-Patrick Smith advanced to the doubles semifinals of the Burnie International on Thursday in Australia.

    Still playing in his home country, Smith and fellow Aussie John Peers defeated Samuel Groth and Greg Jones 7-6 (6), 4-6, [10-5] in the quarterfinals of the $50,000 Challenger event. 

    For Smith, it is the first time he has reached a doubles semifinal on the Challenger level since turning pro in July 2011. As a freshman, he and Ben Rogers reached the semifinals of the Knoxville Challenger in 2007.

    With the ranking points already, Smith will move into the top 500 in doubles for the first time in his career. 

    Former Vol Adam Hubble lost his doubles quarterfinal match with Erik Chvojka. They lost 6-2, 5-7, [13-11] to Sebastian Rieschick and Danai Udomchoke. Smith and Peers play Rieschick and Udomchoke on Friday.

    In Florida: Tennys Sandgren won his opening match to join Rhyne Williams in the round of 16 at the Palm Coast (Fla.) Futures.

    Sandgren beat qualifier Mitchell Krueger 6-2, 6-2. He faces fourth-seeded Petru-Alexandru Lancanu of Romania next. Williams plays Sergio Gutierrez-Ferrol.


    Happy Birthday - Feb. 2: Anthony Anderson, Devrin Young

    By Jason Yellin on February 2, 2012 10:11 AM
    On Feb. 2, we wish Happy Birthday to a couple of local native football players on the Vols Anthony Anderson and Devrin Young.

    Anthony Anderson  Devrin Young

    Thursday's Tennessee Football Briefing (2/2)

    By Jason Yellin on February 2, 2012 8:25 AM
    Wednesday was a huge day for the Tennessee football program, re-live the day with SIGNING DAY CENTRAL and check out the Derek Dooley Signing Day Press Conference.


    Here are stories about the Vols' signing class:

    - Knoxville News Sentinel: 21 for Class of 2012
    - Chattanooga Times Free Press: Drae Bowles never wavered on UT commitment
    - Inside Tennessee: Head of the class
    - Daily News Journal: Vols sign strong 2012 class

    Thursday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/2)

    By Jason Yellin on February 2, 2012 6:21 AM
    The men's basketball twam will play three of its next four games at the friendly confines of Thompson-Boling Arena starting with a visit from Georgia this Saturday. Check out the latest news on the Vols.

    Tennessee Softball Preview Featured on ESPN.com - Feb. 1

    By Brian Davis on February 1, 2012 5:00 PM
    National softball writer Graham Hays (@grahamhays) has featured Tennessee softball (@LadyVol_Sftball) on the front page of the College Sports section on ESPN.com (Wed., Feb. 1) as his No. 8 team in the nation in the preseason.

    Our very own sophomore shortstop Madison Shipman is included on the front page photo. 

    Check out the beginning to his preview breakdown below and click on the link at the bottom to visit the article on ESPN.com:

    No. 8 Tennessee
    Last year: 49-12 overall, 20-8 SEC (lost in Knoxville Regional)

    Who returns: Hits, hits and more hits return. Tennessee led the NCAA with a .348 batting average last season, and four of the five players who contributed the most hits to that average return.  Raven Chavanne ranked seventh in the nation with a .455 batting average and led the Lady Vols with 33 stolen bases. She'll settle in at third base after splitting time between the outfield and third last season, although she won't settle in there until at least the third weekend of the regular season after sustaining a broken hand in the preseason. Second baseman Lauren Gibson's 1.188 OPS led the team last season and she's perhaps poised for even better things after earning playing time with the senior United States national team that won gold in the Pan-Am Games last fall. Kat Dotson made it three players who hit better than .400 last season and was a double-double threat in home runs (10) and stolen bases (26), while Shelby Burchell is the leading returning slugger after a breakout junior season in which she hit 15 home runs.

    #8 Tennessee -- Plenty of Talent Returns for Lady Vol Softball


    Vols FaxCam Draws 53,070 Viewers

    By Jason Yellin on February 1, 2012 12:18 PM
    The debut of the Vols FaxCam on National Signing Day was received with rave reviews as 53,070 viewers tuned in between 7:45 am and 12 Noon on UTSports.com.

    For complete signing day coverage visit: Signing Day 2012 on UTSports.com

    Happy Birthday - Feb. 1: Darren Renwick

    By Jason Yellin on February 1, 2012 10:11 AM

    On Feb. 1, we wish Happy Birthday to senior golfer Darren Renwick.

    Darren Renwick

    ON TOUR: ATP Tour Rankings (1/30/12)

    By Amanda Pruitt on February 1, 2012 9:56 AM

    Here are the Vols' updated ATP Tour rankings as of Jan. 30, 2011. The Vols are listed by highest singles ranking first. The number in parenthesis denotes change from previous week.


    John-Patrick Smith

    Singles: 431 (+5)

    Doubles: 583 (+3)

    Note: Reached new career best in both singles and doubles ... Received singles and doubles wild cards to this week's Burnie International, a $50,000 Challenger in Australia ... Lost in first round of singles but is now in doubles quarterfinals ... On Twitter @jpatsmith


    Rhyne Williams

    Singles: 509 (+2)

    Doubles: 547 (+7)

    Note: New career-high rank in singles and doubles ... Last week reached the singles quarterfinals of the Weston (Fla.) Futures, where he lost to Brian Baker ... With points there, he should crack the top 500 in singles for the first time in his career when the rankings are released again next week ... Playing in the Palm Coast (Fla.) Futures, where he is in the second round.


    Tennys Sandgren

    Singles: 540 (+1)

    Doubles: 641 (+7)

    Note: New career best in singles ... Currently playing in the Palm Coast (Fla.) Futures, where he starts singles action later today ... He is in the quarterfinals of doubles with Rhyne Williams.


    Ben Rogers

    Singles: N/A

    Doubles: 514 (+5)

    Note: Played in the singles qualifying at the Palm Coast (Fla.) Futures, where he lost in the first round ... Did not play doubles.


    Adam Hubble

    Singles: N/A

    Doubles: 563 (+147)

    Note: Playing his first event of the year, the Burnie International ... He is in the quarterfinals with Canadian Erik Chvojka.

    Stories On Former Vols At Super Bowl Media Day

    By Jason Yellin on February 1, 2012 6:02 AM
    Check out our UTSports.com on site at Super Bowl Media Day with this video.

    Here are some stories from around the country that focus on the three former Vols in the Super Bowl: Shaun Ellis and Jerod Mayo with the Patriots and Deon Grant with the Giants.

    - Indianpolis Star: Coolest name at Super Bowl???
    - Associated Press: Images: Super Bowl Media Day

    Wednesday's Tennessee Basketball Briefing (2/1)

    By Jason Yellin on February 1, 2012 5:59 AM
    The Vols Dropped A 69-44 Decision At #1 UK on Tuesday night. You can watch video highlights here.

    Here are the stories from the media:

    - Chattanooga Times Free Press: Davis, Wildcats overpower Vols
    - Chattanooga Times Free Press: UK center swats away any hope of UT victory
    - Inside Tennessee: Cats claw Vols, 69-44
    - Yahoo! Sports: This 'Cat is a game-changer
    - Louisville Courier-Journal: Kentucky basketball beats Tennessee 69-44
    - Louisville Courier-Journal: Wildcats are tough to beat
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