The Tennessee Volunteers are making serious waves in the transfer portal, and head coach Rick Barnes is just getting started. After securing commitments from Cal guard Dai Dai Ames and Loyola (Chicago) center Miles Rubin over the weekend, the Vols have landed a true blue-chip talent: Notre Dame star freshman Jalen Haralson.
Haralson, a former McDonald's All-American and five-star recruit, brings an immediate scoring punch to Knoxville. The 6'7", 220-pound wing averaged an impressive 16.2 points per game for the Fighting Irish last season, showcasing his ability to attack the basket and finish through contact. While his three-point shooting will be an area for development, his size and scoring instincts are a perfect fit for the SEC's physical style of play.
This commitment addresses a critical need for Tennessee, which saw frontcourt players J.P. Estrella, Cade Phillips, and Jaylen Carey enter the transfer portal. Haralson provides not only size but also a proven ability to create his own shot, something that will be invaluable as the Vols look to build on their recent success.
And the good news might not stop there. The Vols appear to be on a roll, with multiple projections suggesting Wake Forest scoring sensation Juke Harris could be the next major addition. Harris, who averaged 21 points per game last season, has been a primary target for Barnes. Landing both Haralson and Harris would represent a monumental offseason haul, instantly elevating Tennessee's offensive firepower and making them a team to watch as a potential contender next season.
