Over recent years, Tennessee has showcased remarkable performance during the regular season, yet faced challenges when March arrives, particularly in the tournament. Rick Barnes, known for emphasizing strong defense, has seen the team's scoring abilities as their Achilles' heel. This year presents a shift, largely due to the arrival of Dalton Knecht via the transfer portal. Last season, Santiago Vescovi led the team with an average of 12.5 points per game (PPG). Knecht, on the other hand, is currently averaging 21.1 PPG, significantly boosting Tennessee's offensive prowess. This enhancement, coupled with the team's seasoned roster, propelled the Volunteers to clinch the SEC regular season title.

However, the team's historical March struggles resurfaced, showed by their loss in the last regular season game against Kentucky and an early exit in the SEC tournament to Mississippi State. This raises the question: Can Tennessee surpass their March hurdles and live up to the high expectations, or will they repeat past disappointments?

While much of Tennessee's prospects hinge on Knecht's performance, the team boasts potential game-changers like Jordan Gainey. Despite averaging only 7 PPG on a 28.7% shooting rate from three, Gainey's past success, including a 49% three-point shooting season at SC Upstate, suggests he could be a critical asset. This not even to mention they have the SEC defensive player of year in Zaki Zeigler

If Knecht maintains his season-long excellence and receives ample support from teammates like Gainey and Ziegler, Tennessee could indeed make a significant impact in the tournament, possibly even securing the championship.