Tennessee's Juke Harris makes promise fans should be excited about this upcoming season

The Tennessee Volunteers men's basketball are just one piece away from completing what could be one of the best rosters Rick Barnes has assembled during his time in Knoxville. His latest addition, Juke Harris, might end up being the biggest transfer portal commitment of Barnes’ tenure.

Landing Harris was a massive win for Tennessee and could go down as Barnes’ best portal addition yet. Harris’ commitment also pushed the Volunteers to the top-ranked transfer portal class in the country.

“Tennessee basketball keeps adding to its star-studded transfer portal haul, adding Wake Forest guard Juke Harris on Monday, May 4. Harris, the No. 2-ranked overall player in the transfer portal in USA TODAY's rankings, averaged 21.4 points with 6.5 rebounds and 1.9 assists per game last season on 44.4% shooting. He chose the Vols over Michigan, which he visited, and North Carolina, among others. Harris' commitment lifts Tennessee's portal haul to No. 1 in USA TODAY Sports' class rankings,” USA Today’s Austin Curtright wrote.

Barnes was able to win Harris over by being straightforward with him and clearly explaining what areas of his game still need improvement.

“Another thing that he did that separated himself from everybody else is he came in and told me how good I was, but he also got on me about some stuff they can see that I need to work on. ... I feel like I'll be more of a complete player going into Tennessee next year,” Harris said.

The star transfer is excited to join the Vols and continue preparing himself for the 2027 NBA Draft. He also made a promise to Tennessee fans, saying the atmosphere next season is going to be electric.

“So I’m super ready to come play in front of you guys, and it’s going to be a big show,” Harris promised.

There is no doubt the confidence is there for Harris, who seems genuinely excited to become part of the Tennessee program. Expectations will be extremely high for both Harris and the Volunteers, but it is safe to say the former Wake Forest Demon Deacons men's basketball standout is ready for the challenge.

Harris was reportedly on the verge of becoming a first-round pick in this year’s NBA Draft, but he instead chose to give Rocky Top everything he has before fully pursuing his professional dream. With his recent comments, Harris has already created major excitement throughout the Tennessee fanbase.