Tennessee signs two forwards
KNOXVILLE — The Tennessee men’s basketball program added a pair of four-star recruits Wednesday, the first day of the spring signing period.
Forwards Derrick Walker (6-foot-8) and Yvez Pons (6-6) signed their national letters of intent to join the Volunteers. They join center Zach Kent (6-10), who signed in November, as part of an incoming freshman class that could have an impact on the court next season.
Tennessee could add one more scholarship player to the class before the May 17 signing deadline.
Kwe Parker’s decision to transfer, Detrick Mostella’s midseason dismissal and the graduation of Lew Evans and Robert Hubbs left the Vols with four scholarships to give for the upcoming season.
In a news release, Tennessee coach Rick Barnes described Pons as “a long, athletic wing who can defend multiple positions, play fast and finish in transition, along with rebound on both ends.” Pons, who is from Fuveau, France, was a four-star prospect, according to 247Sports.com’s composite rankings.
Walker, who’s from Kansas City, Mo., was rated a four-star player by ESPN. In a release, Barnes said the Sunrise Christian Academy product will blend nicely with the Vols because of his size, strength and toughness.
“So there are a lot of signs that point to him being able to help us immediately,” Barnes said. “His next challenge is to get himself into great shape so that he can make the kind of impact we believe he’s capable of.”
Kent, the fall signee, is from Magnolia, Del., and played at Blair Academy in Blairstown, N.J. He was a three-star recruit, according to 247Sports and ESPN.
Tennessee finished the 2016-17 season 16-16 and did not play beyond the Southeastern Conference tournament. The upcoming season will be Barnes’ third with the Vols.
Walker and Kent plan to enroll in the summer. Pons’ enrollment date has not been set yet. He plans to play with the French team at the 2017 FIBA U18 European Championships this summer.
Contact David Cobb at dcobb@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6249.