Isaac McKneely Visits Tennessee: A Potential Answer to the Vols' Shooting Void Reading Top Portal Target Ja'Kobi Gillespie Could be Leaning Tennessee's Way Next Top Transfer Ja'Kobi Gillespie Commits to Tennessee

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Top Portal Target Ja'Kobi Gillespie Could be Leaning Tennessee's Way

Top Portal Target Ja'Kobi Gillespie Could be Leaning Tennessee's Way

By Pablo Cong

Greeneville, TN is home to elite transfer point guard Ja'Kobi Gillespie. It is located just over an hour from Knoxville, home of the Tennessee Volunteers. Gillespie, a Tennessee native and former Maryland lead guard, averaged 14.7 points and 4.8 assists per game. With Tennessee being his home state, the Volunteers emerge as a highly realistic landing spot for Gillespie.

What kind of player is Gillespie?

Gillespie, a dynamic 6'1" shot maker and playmaker, delivered several standout performances in the Big Ten, often carrying his team to victory with his scoring prowess. He thrives in transition and excels in the middle third of the floor, using his quick bursts, vision, and tight handle to keep defenses off balance. A crafty finisher at the rim, he also boasts a polished midrange game and can stretch the floor effectively, shooting 40% from beyond the arc. 

If he commits to Tennessee, Gillespie would step in as the successor to the beloved Zakai Zeigler, whose heart and hustle made him a fan favorite in Knoxville. While he may not match Zeigler’s elite defensive tenacity, he offers a bigger frame, greater offensive versatility, and remains a solid, capable defender.

Other elite transfer portal point guards, such as Dedan Thomas and Donovan Dent, were highly sought after by top programs, with Thomas committing to LSU and Dent landing at UCLA. Tennessee never gained significant traction with either player, nor did they make serious contact or a strong push to recruit them, making Gillespie a much more attainable target. With the Volunteers not actively recruiting his position, Gillespie could see a clear path to a major role—an appealing selling point in his decision-making process. Gillespie is currently being courted by Kentucky, Villanova, Maryland, and Oklahoma, in addition to the hometown Vols, per Sam Kayser. 

Outlook

The Volunteers are reported to have substantial NIL resources, which should serve them well in this new era of player movement. It’s easy to envision a scenario where Tennessee builds a significantly stronger roster, loaded with depth and elite talent.

Come follow us on twitter at @LRA_Vols and join us on the Tennessee Forum and don’t forget to check out our partner Fan Fund, an exciting new way to support your favorite student athletes!

Photo Credit: University of Maryland Athletics

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