JP Estrella, Tennessee’s backup center and a rising star for the top-10 Vols, will miss the remainder of the 2024-25 season after a scheduled foot surgery.

Estrella has been dealing with a left foot injury since before the start of this season, but he still made a few appearances in the early going. It was obvious that the big man was not at 100%, and this move confirms it.

Estrella is expected to pursue a medical redshirt, and given the circumstances he is likely to be successful in securing one.

Tennessee center JP Estrella will miss the remainder of the season as he undergoes surgery on his foot. pic.twitter.com/5j8105Z8i7

— Vol Report (@AllVolReport) November 25, 2024

Estrella’s numbers don’t stand out, but that’s because the sophomore has yet to see significant time on the court – partially due to this injury. Last season Estrella, then a freshman, sat behind standout C Jonas Aidoo. To start this year Estrella is sitting behind Felix Okpara, and the expectation is that Estrella will be the Vols’ next starter at the 5 in coming years.

So, what does this mean for Tennessee now? A lot, to say the least.

For one, Okpara is now the team’s only remaining true center. Igor Milicic has seen time at the 5 this season, but he’s not even close to the rim protector or physical presence that Okpara has been this year. Okpara and Milicic are the only players on the roster above 6-10 with Estrella out of action.

For another, Estrella seemed to be poised for a very strong season – especially as a scoring threat. Tennessee no longer has that option down low, as Okpara’s skills with his back to the basket have yet to be proven.

The ideal route for Tennessee is bringing in a mid-year transfer, like they did with Santiago Vescovi a few years back. Whether or not that’s possible this season, we’ll have to wait and find out.

Ethan Stone

Ethan Stone is a Tennessee graduate and loves all things college football and college basketball. Firm believer in fouling while up 3.