CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Tennessee looks to punch their ticket to the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 with a win over Texas on Saturday night in Charlotte.
The Vols are playing their games in Spectrum Arena, the home of the Charlotte Hornets, which is the team former Tennessee forward Grant Williams plays for now.
Williams feels like this is the best team Tennessee has had since the 2018-2019 season.
“This team has the best chance of any since we left to really make a run at it,” Williams said. “I really believe in the Vols to win it all, and Dalton and Zakai and the veterans on that team really have a chance to lead them to that success.”
As a current NBA player, Williams is impressed with the future NBA player Dalton Knecht. When he watches him, sometimes he is just amazed at the scoring ability.
“Dang, he has 30 already? You’re like how did that happen," Williams said. "Then you look at the box sheet and see he has dour threes already, five threes already, no wonder he has 30."
He is equally impressed how fifth-year seniors like Josiah-Jordan James and Santiago Vescovi have changed their roles to do what it takes to help the team win.
“I also admire the roles Josiah and Santiago have really, really shown,” he said. “ Both as leaders and guys who were really the stars of the team, but now they are not really getting any of the spotlight, but still impacting the game in large ways.”
Williams has gotten to see the Vols play against Auburn and South Carolina this season.
Williams has spoken to the team a couple of times. He told them he would always be there for them and gave them this message.
“I try and tell them that this is their opportunity to have an impact on yourselves and your careers, but also at Tennessee,” Williams said. “Take full advantage throughout the entire process and understand that even if the glory is being shown on someone else, they will forever remember the team that wins it all.”
Williams said first, take care of Texas on Saturday. Game time is at 8 p.m. and will be televised on CBS.