Tennessee basketball is already turning heads this offseason, and Coach Rick Barnes isn't done yet. After locking in one of the nation's top transfer portal classes, the Volunteers added a major piece on May 4 when Wake Forest guard Juke Harris committed. That move pushed Tennessee to the No. 1 spot in USA TODAY's portal rankings, sparking serious Final Four buzz for the 2026-27 season.
With Harris in the fold, the Vols now have 13 scholarship players on the roster. That includes seven portal signees, four high school recruits, and two returners from last season's Elite Eight run. But with the NCAA allowing up to 15 scholarships, Tennessee still has two open spots to fill. Barnes and his staff have already addressed most of the team's needs, especially on offense, where they brought in high-end scoring at every position. Still, adding depth is a smart move—just ask North Carolina or Louisville, both of whom lost star freshmen to injuries during the NCAA Tournament and felt the impact.
So what's next for the Vols? With roster flexibility remaining, Tennessee could target a few key areas. They might look for another versatile forward to bolster the frontcourt, a sharpshooter to stretch the floor even further, or a seasoned ball-handler to provide insurance in the backcourt. The transfer portal is still active, and Barnes has shown he knows how to find the right fit. Whether it's adding experience or athleticism, these final two spots could be the difference between a good season and a championship run. Keep an eye on Knoxville—the Vols aren't finished building.
