In a move that bolsters an already intriguing offseason for Tennessee basketball, veteran combo guard Amaree Abram has officially joined the Tennessee Volunteers for the 2025–26 season. The addition of Abram, a skilled scorer and playmaker with SEC and Big 12 experience, represents a strategic acquisition by head coach Rick Barnes as he seeks to retool a squad looking to build on recent successes in the NCAA Tournament.
Abram arrives in Knoxville with two years of collegiate experience under his belt and the kind of versatility and maturity that make him an instant-impact player. His journey—from being a four-star recruit to contributing at both Ole Miss and Georgia Tech—has been defined by resilience, growth, and flashes of high-level potential.
Now, Abram is poised to take center stage in the orange and white, and the Volunteers believe his best basketball is still ahead of him.
A Promising Prospect Coming Out of High School
Amaree Abram was a coveted member of the 2022 recruiting class. Rated as a top-100 national recruit and a consensus four-star prospect, he was known for his scoring instincts, shifty ball-handling, and ability to create his own shot. The Port Arthur, Texas native stood out for his toughness and competitiveness, often drawing comparisons to other elite scoring guards who could operate both on and off the ball.
Originally committed to Texas A&M, Abram later flipped to Ole Miss, where he joined head coach Kermit Davis’ program. There, he quickly established himself as a reliable backcourt option, earning early playing time and showcasing his scoring ability in the always rugged Southeastern Conference.
A Strong Freshman Campaign at Ole Miss
During the 2022–23 season, Abram played a key role for the Rebels as a freshman. Appearing in 33 games and making 22 starts, he averaged:
- 8.0 points per game
- 2.0 rebounds per game
- 2.0 assists per game
- 36.4% FG / 26.6% 3PT / 73.7% FT
While the shooting percentages didn’t leap off the stat sheet, Abram’s ability to compete against top-tier SEC guards as a true freshman earned him attention. He showed poise handling the ball under pressure and wasn’t afraid to take big shots late in games.
Unfortunately, Ole Miss struggled as a team that year, finishing with a subpar record, which eventually led to a coaching change. With Davis out and Chris Beard taking over the program, Abram opted to enter the transfer portal.
A Reset Year at Georgia Tech
Looking for a fresh start, Abram transferred to Georgia Tech for the 2023–24 season. There, he played under first-year head coach Damon Stoudamire, a former NBA player and coach known for developing guards. Although it was a rebuilding year for the Yellow Jackets, Abram continued to grow his game, averaging:
- 9.8 points per game
- 2.3 assists per game
- 2.6 rebounds per game
- 42.1% FG / 34.2% 3PT / 79.4% FT
Abram improved significantly as a shooter, particularly from beyond the arc. His confidence off the dribble and ability to knock down spot-up threes made him a key contributor for Georgia Tech in ACC play. He logged several double-digit scoring games, including a season-high 21 points against Clemson and 18 points versus Florida State.
But with Georgia Tech continuing its long-term rebuild and Tennessee showing significant interest, Abram entered the transfer portal again following the 2024–25 season—this time looking for a chance to compete on a national stage.
Why Tennessee? The Perfect Fit
Tennessee entered the offseason with significant roster movement following the departures of key veterans like Zakai Zeigler, Josiah-Jordan James, and Jonas Aidoo. While Barnes had a strong incoming recruiting class and several young guards returning, the team lacked a proven combo guard with experience in high-major conferences.
Enter Amaree Abram.
The 6-foot-4, 195-pound guard gives the Volunteers a multidimensional player who can score, facilitate, and defend multiple positions. His ability to slide between the 1 and 2 spots offers critical flexibility for Barnes’ system, which values tough, physical perimeter defenders and guards who can operate in both pick-and-roll and transition.
What makes the fit even more intriguing is how Abram complements Tennessee’s current personnel. Returning sophomore guard J.P. Estrella, incoming freshman Josiah “Jojo” Johnson, and sharpshooter Freddie Dilione V round out a backcourt that should be one of the most dynamic and versatile in the SEC.
Moreover, Tennessee’s elite defense—anchored by Barnes’ demanding man-to-man scheme—should benefit from Abram’s size and defensive awareness. His high basketball IQ and improved decision-making also align well with Barnes’ preferences.
Rick Barnes on Amaree Abram
In a statement following Abram’s commitment, Coach Barnes had high praise for the newest Vol:
“Amaree is a high-level competitor who has played in two of the toughest leagues in the country. He’s been battle-tested and brings the kind of experience and maturity we value. His growth as a shooter, his toughness, and his ability to create offense will be a major asset for us. We’re excited to welcome him to Rocky Top.”
Behind the scenes, Barnes and his staff reportedly built a strong relationship with Abram during the recruiting process. The emphasis was on how Abram could be a key piece in their pursuit of an SEC title and a deep March run. Tennessee also offered a strong NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) package and a clear development path to professional basketball—something Abram found hard to pass up.
What Abram Brings to the Volunteers
1. Scoring Versatility
Abram can create off the bounce, shoot from distance, and finish at the rim. He’s adept at using hesitation moves and floaters in the lane. With Tennessee needing someone to generate offense late in the shot clock, Abram will be a key option.
2. Playmaking Ability
While not a traditional point guard, Abram’s court vision has improved significantly. He’s comfortable running pick-and-roll sets and can find shooters on the perimeter. Expect him to share primary ball-handling duties.
3. Perimeter Defense
Tennessee’s identity under Barnes has been defense-first. Abram, with a 6’4″ frame and solid lateral quickness, can guard opposing guards and wings effectively. His SEC and ACC background will serve him well in this demanding defensive system.
4. Leadership & Experience
With over 65 games played at the high-major level, Abram brings the type of veteran presence that can help guide younger teammates. He’s seen different coaching styles, environments, and high-pressure situations, making him a natural leader in the locker room.
Outlook for the 2025–26 Season
With the addition of Abram, Tennessee has solidified its backcourt and added a player who can be both a stabilizer and a spark. The SEC is expected to be ultra-competitive once again, with Arkansas, Kentucky, Alabama, and Auburn all reloading as well. But Tennessee’s mix of experience and talent makes it a real contender.
Early projections have Tennessee as a top-15 team in the Way-Too-Early Top 25 rankings, and Abram will likely be one of the primary reasons why. If he continues to build on his improved shooting and becomes more consistent in decision-making, he could emerge as an All-SEC caliber player.
It also wouldn’t be a surprise to see Abram garner NBA attention. His physical profile, scoring touch, and defensive tools make him a potential second-round pick or priority free agent. A strong year in Knoxville could boost his stock considerably.
Final Thoughts
In the ever-evolving landscape of college basketball, where transfers and NIL dynamics shape rosters more than ever, Amaree Abram’s move to Tennessee is a textbook example of a mutually beneficial union.
For Abram, it’s a chance to win, compete at the highest level, and further his professional aspirations. For Tennessee, it’s the acquisition of a battle-tested guard who fills a key need and brings leadership and production.
Rocky Top faithful should be thrilled. Abram is not just a talented addition—he’s a potential difference-maker. And as Tennessee eyes another deep NCAA Tournament run, don’t be surprised if it’s Abram leading the way in March.