Feb 13, 2021; Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA; Tennessee Volunteers guard Yves Pons (35) blocks a lay up attempt by LSU Tigers guard Aundre Hyatt (15) during the second half at Pete Maravich Assembly Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports
Expectations for Tennessee basketball this year were based on the raw talent of the elite freshmen and the consistency of the returning guys. Leading those returning guys were the two post players, SEC Defensive Player of the Year in Yves Pons and returning leading scorer in John Fulkerson, both of whom are seniors.
If there were serious growing pains with the freshmen, accentuated by the COVID issues, Pons and Fulkerson would help the Vols overcome those issues.