VFL Dalton Knecht Selected for NBA Rising Stars Challenge

The NBA season is nearing the All-Star break, and former University of Tennessee standout Dalton Knecht has been chosen to participate in the Rising Stars Challenge, marking the first time a Tennessee alum has received this honor. The game is scheduled for Feb. 14 at 9 p.m. ET at Chase Center in San Francisco.

VOLS IN THE NBA

Tobias Harris | Detroit Pistons | at Tennessee 2010-11

With an impressive track record of 14 seasons in the NBA, Tobias Harris continues to be a key player for the Detroit Pistons. Harris is currently averaging over 12 points per game and has been instrumental in the team’s recent success.

Keon Johnson | Brooklyn Nets | at Tennessee 2020-21

In his fourth year in the NBA, Keon Johnson is having a standout season with the Brooklyn Nets. Johnson has already set career highs in appearances and starts and is making significant contributions to the team’s performance.

Julian Phillips | Chicago Bulls | at Tennessee 2022-23

As a second-year pro with the Chicago Bulls, Julian Phillips has shown steady improvement and consistency on the court. Phillips has been a valuable asset to the team, showcasing his skills in scoring and rebounding.

Josh Richardson | Miami Heat | at Tennessee 2011-15

Josh Richardson, a seasoned NBA veteran, has been a key player for the Miami Heat. Despite battling injuries, Richardson has displayed his strong defensive prowess and playmaking abilities.

Jaden Springer | Boston Celtics | at Tennessee 2020-21

Reigning NBA champion Jaden Springer has been an integral part of the Boston Celtics’ success this season. Springer has shown his scoring ability and versatility on the court, contributing to the team’s strong performance.

Grant Williams | Charlotte Hornets | at Tennessee 2016-19

Competing for his hometown team, Grant Williams had a strong start to the season before suffering a season-ending injury. Williams’ contributions were essential to the team’s success, showcasing his scoring and rebounding capabilities.

VOLS IN THE NBA G LEAGUE

Jordan Bowden | College Park SkyHawks | at Tennessee 2016-20

Jordan Bowden has been a consistent performer in the NBA G League, showcasing his scoring prowess and overall impact on the court. Bowden’s strong performances have been a key factor in the success of the College Park SkyHawks.

Kennedy Chandler | Raptors 905 | at Tennessee 2021-22

In his third year as a pro, Kennedy Chandler has excelled in the NBA G League, displaying his scoring and playmaking abilities. Chandler’s strong performances have been crucial to the Raptors 905’s success this season.

Josiah-Jordan James | Indiana Mad Ants | at Tennessee 2019-24

After a successful collegiate career, Josiah-Jordan James has transitioned to the professional ranks and continued to improve his game. James has been a valuable asset to the Indiana Mad Ants, showcasing his scoring and rebounding capabilities.

Tyreke Key | Raptors 905 | at Tennessee 2022-23

In his second season in the G League, Tyreke Key has made significant contributions to the Raptors 905, displaying his scoring and playmaking abilities. Key’s strong performances have been instrumental in the team’s success this season.

VOLS OVERSEAS

Kyle Alexander | Turkey | at Tennessee 2015-19

Kyle Alexander has been a standout performer for Türk Telekom B.K. in Turkey, showcasing his scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking abilities. Alexander’s strong performances have been essential to the team’s success in domestic and EuroCup competition.

Victor Bailey Jr. | Germany | at Tennessee 2019-22

Victor Bailey Jr. has been a key player for Niners Chemnitz in Germany, displaying his scoring and playmaking abilities. Bailey’s impressive performances have been crucial to the team’s success in domestic competition.

John Fulkerson | Poland | at Tennessee 2016-22

John Fulkerson has started his season with Dziki Warszawa in Poland, making significant contributions to the team in domestic action. Fulkerson has showcased his scoring and rebounding abilities, helping the team in their campaign.

Kevin Punter Jr. | Spain | at Tennessee 2014-16

Competing for FC Barcelona Lassa in Spain, Kevin Punter Jr. has been a key player in EuroLeague competition, showcasing his scoring and playmaking abilities. Punter’s strong performances have been crucial to the team’s success in both domestic and international play.

Olivier Nkamhoua | Germany | at Tennessee 2019-23

Olivier Nkamhoua has been a reliable performer for Niners Chemnitz in Germany, showcasing his scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking abilities. Nkamhoua’s consistent performances have been essential to the team’s success in domestic competition.

ADDITIONAL PRO VOLS

Several former Tennessee players are making an impact in professional leagues around the world, demonstrating the strong basketball program at the university.

• Wayne Chism, John Fields, Trae Golden, Scotty Hopson, Jordan McRae, Armani Moore, Uros Plavšić, Yves Pons, Derek Reese, Admiral Schofield, Jarnell Stokes, Lamonte Turner, and Santiago Vescovi are all playing in various international leagues.