BREAKING: Four-Star SF Ralph Scott Commits to Tennessee Vols Over Purdue and Texas A&M

BREAKING: Four-Star SF Ralph Scott Commits to Tennessee Vols Over Purdue and Texas A&M

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — September 30, 2025

In a major recruiting victory for Rick Barnes and the Tennessee Volunteers, four-star small forward Ralph Scott has officially announced his commitment to the Vols, choosing the SEC powerhouse over other top finalists Purdue and Texas A&M. The decision marks a significant win for Tennessee’s 2026 recruiting class and bolsters their wing depth with one of the most versatile forwards in the country.

Scott, a 6-foot-7, 205-pound forward out of Lawrence Central High School in Indianapolis, Indiana, made the announcement via a live broadcast on ESPN Recruiting Nation on Tuesday afternoon. Surrounded by family, teammates, and his high school coaches, Scott unzipped a black jacket to reveal an orange Tennessee T-shirt underneath — sealing months of speculation about where he would take his talents next fall.

“I feel like Tennessee is home,” Scott said during the announcement. “Coach Barnes and his staff believed in me from day one. They’ve shown me how I fit into their system, not just as a player but as a person. The culture, the development, the fans — it’s everything I was looking for.”

A Rising Star on the National Radar

Ranked as the No. 34 overall prospect and the No. 7 small forward in the 2026 class by 247Sports Composite, Scott emerged as one of the most complete wings in the country over the past year. Known for his elite defensive instincts, smooth shooting stroke, and high basketball IQ, Scott drew interest from more than 20 high-major programs before narrowing his list to three in early August.

On the EYBL circuit this summer, Scott averaged 18.2 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game while shooting nearly 38% from three-point range. He impressed scouts with his ability to guard multiple positions and his poise under pressure. His breakout performances at Peach Jam earned him offers from blue-blood programs like Kansas and UCLA, but Tennessee remained consistent in their pursuit.

“Tennessee was recruiting me harder than anybody,” Scott said. “They were at every game, every open gym, every tournament. They didn’t just talk — they showed up.”

Why Tennessee?

Tennessee’s player development track record, especially under Rick Barnes, played a pivotal role in Scott’s decision. In recent years, the Vols have produced NBA talent like Keon Johnson, Jaden Springer, and most recently, Dalton Knecht — a breakout star and NBA Draft lottery pick in 2024 after a stellar season in Knoxville.

Scott cited the development of Knecht as a clear blueprint for what he hopes to become at the college level.

“Seeing how Coach Barnes used Dalton and helped him go from a good player to a great one — that really stuck with me,” Scott said. “He’s not afraid to coach hard and hold you accountable, and I want that.”

Additionally, Tennessee’s up-tempo style, strong emphasis on defense, and ability to let wings initiate offense were all factors that appealed to Scott’s all-around game. He took his official visit to Knoxville in early September, and sources close to the recruitment said that visit “sealed the deal.”

Reaction from the Tennessee Staff

Head coach Rick Barnes, who enters his 10th season at the helm of the Vols, couldn’t comment publicly due to NCAA rules, but Tennessee assistant coaches were seen reacting with visible excitement on social media shortly after Scott’s announcement.

One assistant tweeted: “Big things happening in Knoxville. #GBO 🍊”

While the Vols have already secured commitments from two top-100 players in the 2026 class — point guard Jalen Price (No. 64) and power forward Marcus Tillman (No. 89) — adding Scott gives the class a true headliner and elevates it into the top 10 nationally, per early class rankings.

What Scott Brings to the Vols

Scott projects as an immediate-impact player at Tennessee thanks to his college-ready frame and two-way ability. At 6-foot-7 with a 6’10” wingspan, he can defend both guard and forward positions, making him a fit for the Vols’ switch-heavy defensive schemes. Offensively, he’s capable of creating his own shot, knocking down catch-and-shoot threes, and facilitating in the halfcourt.

“His versatility is off the charts,” said one scout for 247Sports. “He’s the kind of guy who might not wow you with flashy plays, but by the end of the night, he’s filled up the stat sheet and locked down your best scorer.”

With veteran wings like Jordan Gainey and Jahmai Mashack expected to graduate or enter the draft after the 2025 season, Scott will likely compete for major minutes as a freshman — possibly even a starting role depending on roster turnover.

Final Thoughts

For Tennessee fans, Scott’s commitment signals continued momentum for a program that has become a consistent contender in both the SEC and nationally. It’s also another statement of intent: the Vols are not just aiming to win now — they’re building for the future with elite, well-rounded talent.

As Scott summed up in his closing words at the announcement: “I’m ready to bring winning basketball to Knoxville. Let’s get to work. Go Vols.”

Ralph Scott Recruiting Profile

• Position: Small Forward

• Height/Weight: 6’7”, 205 lbs

• High School: Lawrence Central (IN)

• Ranking: No. 34 overall, No. 7 SF (247Sports Composite)

• Chose Tennessee over: Purdue, Texas A&M

• Committed: September 30, 2025