Tennessee head coach Rick Barnes isn’t holding back when it comes to sophomore forward DeWayne Brown II, laying out some seriously high expectations for the 6-foot-8, 248-pound big man ahead of the 2026-27 basketball season. Straight up, Barnes expects “a lot” from Brown II, and he’s not afraid to say it.
The “Biggest Surprise” That’s Now Leading the Way
Barnes hit up SEC media day on Tuesday in Birmingham, Alabama, and dropped some serious truth about what makes Brown II so crucial for the Vols. “Last year he was the biggest surprise on our basketball team,” Barnes said, recalling how Brown II completely blew away expectations. The coach makes it clear that they always tell players someone will surprise them and someone will disappoint them each season. Last year, Brown II was the one who surprised everyone, in the best way possible. Barnes appreciates Brown II’s loyalty, saying he “stands for everything that any coach would want.” The guy is described as a “great character person,” someone who “works hard every day,” and the “ultimate team player.” Those are the kinds of guys you build a program around, and it’s obvious Barnes knows it.
Bigger Shape, Bigger Ask for the Vols
Barnes isn’t just praising Brown II for what he’s done; he’s hyping up what’s coming next. The coach said they’re going to “ask him to do a lot more.” When they’re showing highlight clips to recruits, guess who keeps popping up? DeWayne Brown II. That’s how integral he was even a year ago. The good news? Brown II has clearly put in the work, getting himself into “even better shape.” Barnes flat out stated that the team wouldn’t be as far along right now without Brown II’s efforts. Along with Troy Henderson, who’s back after recovering from shoulder surgery, Brown II is setting the tone every single day in practice, showing leadership with how they go about their business.
With Barnes putting all this on Brown II’s shoulders, the Vols are clearly banking on his continued rise to anchor their season. It’s going to be wild to see if he can deliver on those massive expectations when the season tips off.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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