Why do you think Tennessee is a national contender now? The reason I ask is because of the recent contract extension of Bruce Pearl. Is he the main reason for their success? Or is it Chris Lofton or some other reason?

I love Bruce Pearl.

First off I am from Mason County so save all the "Homer" comments. I think that Bruce Pearl is an average coach that came into a very good situation with a great player on his team. After Chris graduates, I see Tennessee as a program falling off to being on the Bubble every year, as opposed to a Sweet 16 or better team year in year out.

Tyler Smith....They basically lost no one from last year's team, who wasn't a title threat, and they added a heck of a PF in Smith.

Tyler Smith....They basically lost no one from last year's team, who wasn't a title threat, and they added a heck of a PF in Smith.

So You think Smith is more important to that team than Pearl or Lofton?

So You think Smith is more important to that team than Pearl or Lofton?

 

No, never said that. They were a very good team last year, and would have been the same this year, if not for Smith's addition. Without him they are very good, him on the team makes them a title contender.

Lofton is great, but he isn't the only piece of the puzzle that makes them a contender. Bruce Pearl is a GREAT coach and after Lofton leaves he will continue to build this program! Adding Tyler Smith definitely makes them look like a top 5 team. They should win the SEC hands down this year.

Lofton is great, but he isn't the only piece of the puzzle that makes them a contender. Bruce Pearl is a GREAT coach and after Lofton leaves he will continue to build this program! Adding Tyler Smith definitely makes them look like a top 5 team. They should win the SEC hands down this year.

Build this program meaning... to what level?

Tennessee will have to get over the "pressure" of March to do something. 1 SEC Tourney win in the last 3 years and in the 2 NCAA appearances there is a first weekend loss and a blown 20 point 2nd half lead in the sweet 16.

Pearl and his style of play is the most important factor. Recruits love it, and it makes life a heck of a lot easier when selling the program...

Tennessee will have to get over the "pressure" of March to do something. 1 SEC Tourney win in the last 3 years and in the 2 NCAA appearances there is a first weekend loss and a blown 20 point 2nd half lead in the sweet 16.

 

At least Pearl has brought them into March though! That shows that their program is taking steps in the right direction.

Build this program meaning... to what level?

 

I would like to think into a top 25 team for years to come. A constant contender for the SEC and maybe even a program worthy of making the final 4. Sadly though, I wonder how long he will stay at UT. His name will be spoken when the next top job in America comes open.

Pearl and his style of play is the most important factor. Recruits love it, and it makes life a heck of a lot easier when selling the program...

 

 

 

:thumb:

I am a Lofton fan, but it is the coach that has made TN what they are. Kids like Pearl's style and he will bring them in. Someone else on here said he would be gone when a bigger name school needs a coach and I also believe that.

They have some stud young guys and thats all there is too it.