Rick Barnes reveals how Tyreke Key has evolved his game

One year ago, Tyreke Key was recovering from season-ending shoulder surgery after announcing his return to Indiana State for one more year thanks to the COVID-19 waiver. He was one of the most prolific scorers in Sycamores history and was seen as a key piece of the roster as Josh Schertz inherited the program from Greg Lansing.

Fast-forward 365 days. Key is now an important part of the Tennessee roster after entering the transfer portal following the 2021-22 season — and he’s impressing his new coach, as well.

Rick Barnes spoke highly of Key, who’s averaging 9.2 points, 2.9 rebounds and 1.6 assists per game for the Volunteers. He’s also a great leader, and Barnes said that’s a big reason the former All-Missouri Valley Conference guard is making such an impact on his hometown program.

“I think Tyreke has definitely added to his game in a lot of different ways,” Barnes told reporters. “By nature, he’s quiet … and his teammates love him. We put him in some situations this year that he’s never been in. He’s embraced [them], he’s never backed down from any of it. We’re fortunate that we were able to get him because he’s been a big impact with our program.”

Key has largely been a starter at Tennessee — just as he was at Indiana State — but came off the bench earlier this week against LSU. He played 18 minutes in that game, dropping 10 points and pulling down seven rebounds, and Barnes explained why Key made the move to the second unit.

As it turns out, he wasn’t feeling well. Still, Barnes said he made his presence known.

“I thought he was terrific. Tyreke is one of those guys that’s been under the weather. But, early in the game, they were out-rebounding us and he and Julian (Phillips) probably changed the rebounding,” said Barnes. “I mean Tyreke went and got three big offensive rebounds. I thought he really took some great balance shots and worked hard defensively.”

“He’ll play more minutes (than he did). I probably should’ve put him out there more tonight. I didn’t realize Santi (Vescovi) played as many minutes as he played. … But I’m proud of Tyreke. Again, he’s been sick and, coming back out today, I thought he was really good.”