Legendary Tennessee basketball coach Rick Barnes recently surprised his former star player, Dalton Knecht, now an NBA rookie with the Lakers, before the team’s clash with the Memphis Grizzlies. See how this unforgettable reunion brought fans to their feet at FedExForum!
A Special Courtside Moment for Coach and Former Player
Rick Barnes, head coach of the Tennessee Volunteers, made a touching visit to the FedExForum in Memphis on Wednesday night. His mission? To surprise Los Angeles Lakers rookie Dalton Knecht, who was warming up for his first career NBA start before facing the Memphis Grizzlies. Barnes, fresh off a Tennessee win against Gardner-Webb, traveled to support Knecht, a player he coached for a single, standout season.
Barnes Reflects on His Bond with Dalton Knecht
“I just love him to death,” Barnes shared with The Commercial Appeal, emphasizing the close bond they built in a short time. Knecht joined Tennessee after stints at Northeastern Junior College and Northern Colorado and quickly made an impact. He led the Volunteers to the Elite Eight and earned SEC Player of the Year honors. His dynamic performance helped him rise to the No. 17 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft.
Reflecting on Knecht’s growth, Barnes recalled his impressive scoring ability, competitiveness, and athleticism. “The players talked about how well he could score, how tough he was,” Barnes noted. He also shared that while Knecht’s natural talent was evident, the young player embraced daily guidance on defense, solidifying his all-around game.
A Show of Tennessee Pride in Memphis
Barnes wasn’t the only one cheering for Knecht. The arena was dotted with Tennessee fans sporting the Volunteers’ signature orange. Among them was Gordon Summerfield, a Grizzlies season ticket holder and lifelong Volunteers fan, who said, “He was the guy that took us to the next level… he just plays the game right.”
Knecht’s Road to NBA Success
Knecht’s rookie season has already been impressive, with an average of 7.9 points per game over his first seven NBA matchups. Despite being sidelined early in the Grizzlies game due to a facial injury, Knecht’s determination remains strong. “I feel like I’ve been underrated my whole life, so I always have a chip on my shoulder,” he shared, reflecting his drive to prove himself at each level.
This reunion highlighted not only the incredible journey of Dalton Knecht but also the lasting impact of Tennessee basketball and Rick Barnes’ mentorship.
