Tennessee basketball has added another major piece to its growing arsenal with the commitment of LA Tech guard Amaree Abram. A dynamic scorer with SEC experience, Abram announced his decision to join the Volunteers after a standout sophomore campaign in Ruston, giving Rick Barnes and his staff a proven backcourt threat capable of making an immediate impact in the 2025-26 season.
The addition of Abram marks a significant win for Tennessee in the transfer portal. The 6-foot-4 guard originally began his collegiate career at Ole Miss before transferring to Louisiana Tech, where he flourished as one of Conference USA’s top guards. Averaging 16.1 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game last season, Abram showcased his ability to score at all three levels while improving his decision-making and efficiency. His production and experience, especially at the high-major level, fill a critical need for the Vols as they retool their roster following another deep NCAA Tournament run.
Abram’s decision to return to the SEC comes after carefully weighing his options. With interest from multiple Power Five programs, he ultimately chose Tennessee for a combination of competitive opportunity, coaching pedigree, and fit. In speaking about his commitment, Abram pointed to the Volunteers’ reputation for developing guards and winning at a high level under Barnes.
“Tennessee felt like the perfect place for me,” Abram said in a statement released after his announcement. “I’ve played in the SEC before, and I know what it takes to win in this league. Coach Barnes and the staff have built a winning culture, and I’m excited to be a part of that. I’m coming in ready to work, ready to compete, and ready to win.”
The Volunteers are getting a guard who plays with poise, energy, and an aggressive scoring mentality. At Louisiana Tech, Abram not only improved statistically but also matured into a more complete player. He became more comfortable creating off the dribble, exhibited greater control in late-game situations, and emerged as a leader on a team that often leaned on his offensive production.
His journey has been anything but traditional. Coming out of Southern California, Abram was highly touted as a four-star prospect in the class of 2022 and earned offers from several high-profile programs. He chose Ole Miss, where he played under former head coach Kermit Davis and averaged 8 points and 2 assists per game as a freshman in the SEC. While the Rebels struggled as a team, Abram gained valuable experience that would benefit him in his next chapter.
After Davis’ departure and a coaching change, Abram entered the portal and landed at Louisiana Tech, where he quickly assumed a starring role. His time in Ruston was marked by growth in both his skill set and leadership. He finished the season shooting 45.2% from the field and 36.8% from beyond the arc, while demonstrating improved decision-making and shot selection. His performance earned him All-Conference USA Second Team honors and positioned him as one of the most coveted guards in the transfer portal.
Tennessee’s coaching staff was quick to pursue Abram once he entered the portal. With needs in the backcourt due to departures and NBA Draft declarations, the Vols prioritized experienced players who could score and defend at a high level. Abram checks both boxes. While primarily known for his offense, he has also improved on the defensive end, showing better anticipation, lateral quickness, and effort in man-to-man situations.
The Vols are expected to give Abram the freedom to operate both on and off the ball. His versatility makes him a valuable chess piece in Barnes’ system, which emphasizes spacing, ball movement, and defensive discipline. Tennessee has become known for its guard development, turning players like Kennedy Chandler, Santiago Vescovi, and Zakai Zeigler into polished collegiate stars and, in some cases, NBA prospects. Abram hopes to follow in that lineage.
“I’m just looking to be part of something bigger than myself,” Abram said. “I want to win championships, and I want to grow my game in every way possible. I know Tennessee is going to challenge me, and that’s what I want. I’m ready for that.”
With Abram now in the fold, Tennessee continues to assert itself as a major force in the transfer portal. The Vols have already added key frontcourt reinforcements and are expected to bring in at least one more high-impact player before the summer. But landing a proven scorer like Abram — who has shown he can compete at the highest level and still has room to grow — could be the linchpin for next season’s success.
Barnes, entering what many believe could be one of his final few seasons in Knoxville, has shown no signs of slowing down when it comes to recruiting or roster building. The longtime head coach has constructed a program that blends gritty, physical defense with high-level guard play and balanced scoring. Abram’s arrival continues that trend.
More importantly, his presence addresses what had been a pressing concern for Tennessee — consistent backcourt scoring. While the Vols have had strong point guard play and defensive excellence in recent years, they have occasionally struggled to generate offense against elite defenses. Abram gives them a player who can break down defenders off the dribble, score in isolation, and hit shots from deep. That type of shot creator is invaluable in March, when possessions slow down and individual talent often decides games.
Abram’s work ethic and maturity also stood out to the coaching staff during the recruitment process. Known for his calm demeanor and quiet confidence, he brings a business-like approach to the game that aligns well with Tennessee’s culture. Those who’ve coached him speak highly of his discipline and desire to improve.
“Amaree is a gym rat,” one of his former coaches said. “He’s always watching film, asking questions, trying to figure out how to get better. He’s not the loudest guy in the room, but he lets his game speak for itself. Tennessee’s getting a real one.”
His transition back to the SEC will be closely watched. The league is as competitive as it’s ever been, with top-tier coaching, elite athletes, and deep rosters across the board. But if Abram’s sophomore season at Louisiana Tech is any indication, he’s ready to rise to the occasion.
The timing of his commitment is also important. By securing Abram early in the offseason, Tennessee can now move forward with greater clarity on its roster. His role as a lead guard or combo option allows the coaching staff to construct lineups with flexibility. Whether alongside a traditional point guard or functioning as the primary initiator, Abram is expected to play major minutes from the jump.
Fans in Knoxville have already begun to take notice, buzzing with excitement over the possibilities. The Volunteer faithful are known for their passion and loyalty, and the addition of a proven scorer like Abram only heightens expectations for the coming season. With the transfer portal now a vital part of college basketball’s landscape, Tennessee has once again proven its ability to identify, attract, and land high-level talent.
There will, of course, be adjustments. The physicality and pace of the SEC will test Abram. But his previous stint at Ole Miss means he won’t be surprised by what awaits. In fact, he welcomes it.
“I’ve seen the best this league has to offer,” Abram said. “And I’ve worked on my game every day since. I’m better, I’m smarter, and I’m more ready than ever to take this next step. I’m not afraid of the moment — I embrace it.”
That mindset, combined with his skills, makes Abram a player to watch as the new season approaches. Tennessee fans will be eager to see him in orange and white, and expectations will be high. But if his journey thus far is any indication, Amaree Abram is ready to deliver.
His commitment to Tennessee is more than just a roster addition — it’s a statement. A statement that the Vols are serious about contending on the national stage. A statement that Rick Barnes and his staff continue to recruit and develop at an elite level. And perhaps most importantly, a statement from Abram himself: that he’s back in the SEC, and this time, he’s here to make his mark.
In the ever-evolving world of college basketball, where rosters shift and stars emerge in new places, one thing is certain — Tennessee just got a whole lot better. And Amaree Abram, with his talent, toughness, and determination, is poised to become the next great name in Volunteer basketball history.
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