Danny White: 'I spend zero time worrying about our men's basketball program'

With head coach Rick Barnes at the head of the Volunteers men’s basketball program, Tennessee athletic director Danny White has one less thing to worry about. On Thursday, White explained the benefits of having Barnes as such an integral part of Tennessee athletics.

“It’s awesome. Love working with Rick Barnes. He’s a great leader,” White said. “He’s overseen the most successful run in our men’s basketball history. Love everything about how he runs his program. I spend zero time worrying about our men’s basketball program.

“The kids he brings in our program, he develops them into men. You guys get to see him and interact with him. High character. Represents us really well. I don’t think we’ve had a single issue off the court since I’ve been here. That’s just what he’s about… It’s unique in the sport. He’s a future Hall of Famer for a reason.”

Barnes is a consummate professional, endlessly representing the values that Tennessee hopes to teach all of its athletes. Barnes’ approach has led to stunning results on the hardwood.

In his 10 years at the helm of the Volunteers, Barnes has amassed a 232-109 overall record, a 111-66 mark in conference play, two regular-season conference titles, a SEC Tournament championship and two Elite Eight appearances. In 2018, he was named the SEC Coach of the Year.

Barnes was named Naismith Coach of the Year in 2019. At 70 years old, Barnes is nothing short of a college basketball legend. However, some fans have grown worried that Barnes’ career might be coming to an end.

Like the fans, White certainly hopes not. Thankfully for the Tennessee faithful, Barnes seemed to shoot down the rumor ahead of Tennessee’s Sweet Sixteen showdown against Kentucky in the NCAA Tournament.

“I love coaching basketball,” Barnes said. “I love being around it. I know right now how hard we’re working right now. We’ve already had a young man on campus after we got back Saturday, Sunday, we had a young man on campus that committed to us. 

“We’re already planning to have a team next year. I fully plan to be a part of it.”

While Danny White has undoubtedly been focused on other issues at Tennessee this offseason, such as quarterback Nico Iamaleava‘s departure, Rick Barnes has been building his next roster.

The Volunteers have added three players via the transfer portal this offseason, including Ja’Kobi Gillespie, who was the No. 5 point guard in the portal this offseason. Tennessee is currently ranked No. 5 in On3’s 2025 Team Transfer Portal Rankings.