In a significant move that bolsters Tennessee’s backcourt depth and experience, veteran combo guard Amaree Abram has officially committed to the Tennessee Volunteers. The transfer announcement comes as head coach Rick Barnes looks to reinforce a roster that has undergone notable changes following the conclusion of the 2024–25 season. Abram brings a blend of scoring, ball-handling, and defensive intensity that could make him a crucial contributor as the Vols chase another deep NCAA Tournament run.
From Magnolia to Rocky Top: Abram’s Journey
Amaree Abram’s path to Knoxville has been one of resilience, growth, and adaptability. The 6-foot-4, 195-pound guard originally hails from Portland, Oregon, but has taken a winding collegiate journey that has seen him suit up for programs in both the SEC and Pac-12.
He began his college career at Ole Miss, where he made an immediate impact as a freshman during the 2022–23 season. Playing in 33 games and starting 22 of them, Abram averaged 8.0 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game while showcasing a solid shooting touch and poise beyond his years. Despite the team’s struggles, Abram was seen as a bright spot in the Rebels’ backcourt and earned praise for his maturity and calm under pressure.
Following his freshman campaign, Abram transferred to Georgia Tech for the 2023–24 season, looking for a new environment to elevate his game. With the Yellow Jackets, Abram played a more prominent offensive role. He continued to demonstrate his combo guard versatility—capable of playing on or off the ball—while refining his three-point shot and defensive instincts.
Now, entering his junior year, Abram has decided to return to the SEC—this time with one of its perennial powerhouses in Tennessee. The move represents a full-circle moment and a chance to thrive under a coach known for developing elite guards.
Tennessee’s Backcourt Outlook
The addition of Amaree Abram comes at a pivotal time for the Volunteers. The departure of veteran guards such as Zakai Zeigler and Santiago Vescovi (who exhausted his eligibility) has left a leadership void and a need for experienced playmakers.
While the Vols boast an influx of young talent, including high-potential freshmen and sophomores, Rick Barnes has emphasized the importance of veteran presence—especially in high-stakes SEC play and March Madness scenarios. Abram fits that mold. He has played over 60 collegiate games, has starting experience, and understands the grind of power-conference basketball.
Abram will join a backcourt rotation that includes returning contributors like Jordan Gainey, Freddie Dilione V, and Cameron Carr. With his scoring prowess and defensive awareness, Abram is expected to either start or log major minutes as a sixth man. His ability to guard multiple positions also gives Barnes the flexibility to experiment with different lineup combinations.
What Abram Brings to the Vols
Abram is not a one-dimensional player. His game is defined by adaptability, and his toolkit makes him one of the more intriguing additions via the transfer portal this offseason.
1. Scoring Versatility
Abram can score at all three levels. Whether it’s finishing through contact at the rim, pulling up from mid-range, or knocking down the open three, he can manufacture points in a variety of ways. His offensive skill set is likely to mesh well with Tennessee’s inside-out system and their emphasis on spacing and ball movement.
In his last season at Georgia Tech, Abram averaged over 10 points per game and shot nearly 36% from beyond the arc, signaling a noticeable improvement in his perimeter game. His scoring will help Tennessee offset the loss of Vescovi’s sharpshooting and Zeigler’s offensive creation.
2. Ball-Handling and Decision Making
While not a traditional point guard, Abram is comfortable initiating offense when necessary. His ability to handle pressure, navigate pick-and-rolls, and make smart decisions with the ball will be vital, especially if Barnes wants to keep multiple ball-handlers on the floor.
Against aggressive SEC defenses, having a reliable secondary playmaker is crucial. Abram’s poise and low turnover rate make him a trusted option to help run the offense, especially in crunch-time situations.
3. Perimeter Defense
Rick Barnes demands defense from his guards, and Abram has the tools to deliver. With a near 6-foot-8 wingspan and good lateral quickness, Abram can defend both guard spots and even slide over to small forward in smaller lineups.
He averaged nearly 1.2 steals per game last season and often took on the responsibility of guarding the opponent’s top perimeter scorer. That kind of defensive commitment will endear him to Barnes and earn him immediate playing time.
4. Leadership and Maturity
Abram’s journey—transferring twice, adjusting to different systems, and thriving through adversity—has matured him both on and off the court. He brings a level of composure and leadership that’s often hard to find in today’s transfer-heavy college basketball landscape.
Multiple sources close to the Tennessee program have already commented on Abram’s professional approach in early offseason workouts. He’s seen as a tone-setter, someone who leads by example and holds teammates accountable.
Fit with Rick Barnes’ System
Rick Barnes has a proven track record of maximizing guard talent. From Jordan Bone to Kennedy Chandler to Zakai Zeigler, Barnes has turned his backcourt players into All-SEC performers and, in some cases, NBA Draft picks. Abram, with his skill set and work ethic, seems like the perfect candidate to continue that tradition.
Tennessee’s offense emphasizes unselfish play, high basketball IQ, and shooting efficiency. Abram’s balanced game aligns well with those pillars. On defense, his switchability and intensity will allow him to fit right into Barnes’ rugged, physical defensive identity.
Tennessee’s 2025 Outlook with Abram in the Fold
With the addition of Abram, Tennessee’s projected backcourt becomes one of the most experienced and versatile in the SEC. His arrival complements the existing roster and gives the Vols a more well-rounded attack. It also raises the team’s ceiling, especially as they aim to make another deep run in the NCAA Tournament following a Sweet 16 appearance last season.
The Volunteers were ranked just outside the Top 10 in ESPN’s recent Way-Too-Early Top 25, but the addition of Abram could bump them up a few spots. Analysts are already taking note of how Tennessee has effectively used the transfer portal to plug key holes without disrupting their team culture or development pipeline.
What This Means for Tennessee Recruiting
Amaree Abram’s commitment also reflects positively on Tennessee’s ability to attract high-quality, experienced guards through the transfer portal. In an era where player movement is common, having a program identity and coaching stability matters more than ever.
Tennessee has developed a reputation as a program that not only wins but also develops its players into professionals. Abram’s decision to commit to the Vols—even over other notable suitors—reinforces that perception. It sends a message to future recruits that Tennessee remains a top destination for backcourt talent.
Final Thoughts
Amaree Abram’s commitment to Tennessee is more than just a roster move—it’s a strategic acquisition that checks several critical boxes for the Volunteers. It adds veteran leadership, offensive firepower, defensive toughness, and roster flexibility. It gives Rick Barnes another trusted guard to lean on in close games. And perhaps most importantly, it gives Tennessee fans another reason to believe that 2025 could be a special season.
Abram’s arrival signals that the Vols aren’t looking to rebuild—they’re reloading. And with a head coach who thrives on discipline, defense, and guard play, Amaree Abram might just find his best basketball yet on Rocky Top.