Tennessee basketball star Dalton Knecht back in Knoxville after NBA year

Dalton Knecht returns to Knoxville after a rookie season with the Lakers, where he played 78 games and made 16 starts. Despite a rollercoaster year, he showcased his talent, averaging 9.1 points, 2.8 rebounds, and had a standout performance scoring 27 points in the regular season finale. Knecht’s ascent began in college, where he became SEC Player of the Year and led Tennessee to an Elite Eight run. Now back, he is working with the Vols’ staff to refine his skills for the future.

By the Numbers

• Knecht averaged 9.1 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 0.8 assists per game during his NBA rookie season.
• During his final college season, he averaged 21.7 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.8 assists, earning SEC Player of the Year honors.

State of Play

• Knecht is currently back in Knoxville, preparing for the next season with the Vols’ coaching staff.
• The Lakers had a playoff run but were eliminated in the first round, indicating a need for roster adjustments.

What’s Next

Knecht will focus on improving his skills and maintaining his performance level to possibly secure a bigger role in the NBA next season, while also contributing to the upcoming college season if he returns to the program.

Bottom Line

Dalton Knecht’s return to Knoxville marks a critical point for his development; leveraging his college experience while refining skills will be pivotal in shaping his future in professional basketball.