The Tennessee Volunteers beat the South Carolina Gamecocks earlier this week without Nate Ament. Today, to end their regular season, they’re hoping to repeat history, albeit against a much tougher foe.
According to Rocky Top Insider, Ament will not play for Tennessee today versus No. 24 Vanderbilt. The Volunteers’ star freshman hurt his leg last Saturday against Alabama. ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported on Friday evening that Ament was doubtful for the contest.
Ament, who’s currently ranked No. 7 on ESPN’s Best Available players for the 2026 NBA Draft, averages a team-high 6.4 rebounds per game for Tennessee. His 17.4 points per game rank second, behind guard Jakobi Gillespie.
Head coach Rick Barnes inserted 6-foot-5 freshman guard Amari Evans into the starting lineup for Ament against South Carolina. The former top-100 recruit scored had 7 points, 3 rebounds, 3 blocks and 2 assists in 32 minutes during the Vols’ 78-59 triumph. If he can have a similar all-around impact versus the Commodores, the Volunteers will feel good about their chances.
Tennessee can clinch a double-bye in the SEC Tournament with a victory over Vanderbilt. A Commodores’ win would open the door for as many as 5 teams — including the Vols — to tie for the No. 4 spot in the SEC standings. Tip between Vandy and Tennessee is set for 2:00 p.m. E.T. (ESPN).
