Tennessee QB coach explains how Hendon Hooker's basketball style helped him on the football field

As we know, some of the best athletes come out of the SEC. That is no exception with Tennessee Volunteers QB Hendon Hooker.

Quarterbacks coach Joey Halzle noticed Hooker’s athleticism on the basketball court. The 6-4, 218-pound signal caller apparently has some moves. Furthermore, his confidence caught the attention of his coach.

Speaking at Tennessee’s media day, Halzle explained how watching Hooker play basketball helped him encourage the talented quarterback to be more confident on the gridiron:

#Vols QB coach Joey Halzle said he watched how aggressive Hendon Hooker was in a pickup basketball game and how happy he looked when he realized no one could guard him. He told Hooker that day to start playing football the way he plays basketball.

— Wes Rucker (@wesrucker247) August 2, 2022

Halzle is hoping Hooker displays that confidence at Neyland Stadium this fall. The Vols quarterback amassed 3,561 yards of total offense, which ranked fourth in the conference. Moreover, Hooker threw for 31 touchdowns and just 3 interceptions. His 68% completion percentage also ranked second in the league.

If Hooker can translate his basketball skill onto the gridiron, the Volunteers could have a big season. Tennessee was picked third in the SEC East in the conference media poll.

Vols fans are certainly hoping for that to be the floor for this year’s squad.