Vols Tie Program Record with Fifth-Place Finish in Polls

Posted on April 9, 2025

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – For the second consecutive season, the University of Tennessee men’s basketball team placed fifth in the year-end national polls.

Tennessee (30-8, 12-6) finished fifth in the country in both the Associated Press Top 25 Poll and the USA TODAY Coaches Poll, as announced Tuesday afternoon.

The Volunteers ascended one position on each list, as they started the NCAA Tournament sixth overall. Tennessee beat Wofford, UCLA and then-No. 18/21 Kentucky to advance to the Elite Eight for the second year in a row. Once there, it fell to Houston, an eventual NCAA finalist.

Tennessee’s fifth-place finish in the AP Poll matches a program previously record in 2023-24, 2021-22 and 2007-08. This is the second time the Associated Press has released a year-end poll after the NCAA Tournament, as the final poll from 1948-49 through 2022-23 came beforehand. The Volunteers have finished fifth in both iterations of the post-NCAA Tournament AP Poll.

Meanwhile, the Volunteers’ fifth-place spot in the Coaches Poll—the outlet has traditionally released a ranking after the NCAA Tournament—ties the program record set just last season, in 2023-24. Before this two-year stretch, their top mark was seventh in 2007-08.

The Volunteers were one of only four teams to rank in the top 12 of the AP Poll and/or Coaches Poll the entire season, alongside Alabama, Auburn and Duke. One of five teams to hold the AP No. 1 position this year, Tennessee spent five weeks atop the list, tied with Kansas for the second-most of any team.

Tennessee notched 11 AP top-10 placements in 2024-25, passing the nine it had last season for its second-most ever in a single campaign. That figure trails only the 14 it posted in 2018-19.

This is the 18th consecutive AP top-10 ranking for the Volunteers—all were in the top eight—dating to Nov. 25, 2024. That is the second-longest streak in program history, behind only the 20-week ledger in 2018-19. All three marks in program of 15-plus weeks are over the last seven years under the direction of head coach Rick Barnes.

In total, Tennessee is in the AP top 10 for the 76th time in Barnes’ 10 seasons, all since 2017-18, after it earned 28 AP top-10 nods in the 14 years (2001-15) before his hiring. The Volunteers have garnered an AP top-10 ranking in 37 of the 42 AP Poll releases over the past two seasons, including a top-eight spot in 33 of the past 36.

Over the last 58 AP Poll announcements—that extends back to Nov. 28, 2022—Tennessee has collected a top-15 spot in 55 of them, all but three.

The Volunteers are in the AP top 25 for the 80th straight week, a tally that spans four full campaigns, since the 2021-22 preseason poll. That figure is 43 above the previous program record of 37 weeks, set March 1999 to Feb. 2001. Tennessee’s 80-week streak is the second-best active mark in the nation, behind only Houston (106). No other school is at even 60-plus, while the closest SEC team is fifth-place Kentucky with a 42-week count that is 38 behind the Volunteers.

Tennessee concluded the year with 1,220 points in the AP Poll balloting and 621 in the Coaches Poll voting.

The Volunteers are one of eight SEC teams in the year-end rankings, four of which are in the top six. They are joined by top-ranked Florida, fourth-ranked Auburn, sixth-ranked Alabama, No. 12/14 Kentucky, No. 18 Ole Miss, No. 19 Texas A&M and No. 20/25 Arkansas.

In addition to coming in at fifth in the AP Poll and Coaches Poll, the Volunteers finished fifth on KenPom.com to tie the program-best mark set in 2023-24. Tennessee also ranked fifth on Haslametrics.com, fifth on ESPN BPI, sixth on BartTorvik.com, sixth on ESPN SOR and seventh on EvanMiya.com. This is the second season in a row Tennessee placed top-seven on all those lists.

To keep up with the University of Tennessee men’s basketball team on social media, follow @Vol_Hoops on Instagram and X/Twitter, as well as /tennesseebasketball on Facebook.

#1/1 Vols Drop Both Games of Saturday Doubleheader to Aggies
Courtesy / UT Athletics

#1/1 Vols Drop Both Games of Saturday Doubleheader to Aggies

Posted on April 6, 2025

Read Online | PDF Box Score (G1) | PDF Box Score (G2) | PDF Series Stats | Download Postgame Media | Photo Gallery

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – No. 1/1 Tennessee dropped both games of a doubleheader against Texas A&M on Saturday at Lindsey Nelson Stadium.

It was a day to forget for the Volunteers (28-4, 9-3 SEC), as the Aggies (16-15, 3-9 SEC) launched an offensive barrage, combining for 26 runs while hitting 11 homers over the two games, just one day after being no-hit in a 10-0 loss to open the series.

For Tennessee, Saturday’s losses snapped a program-record streak of 12 consecutive SEC series wins. The Vols’ last series loss prior to this weekend came on the road at Alabama in the first conference series of last season.
 

Game 1: Texas A&M 9, Tennessee 3

Texas A&M pulled ahead in the middle innings and continued to add to its lead with a three-run eighth inning to essentially put the game away and win the first game of Saturday’s doubleheader, 9-3.

Starting with a run in the fourth to tie the game at two, the Aggies scored in five consecutive innings and finished with four home runs for the game.

Dalton Bargo, Hunter Ensley and Stone Lawless drove in the Vols’ three runs with a solo homer and a pair of RBI singles, respectively.

Marcus Phillips was stuck with his first loss of the year after giving up four runs on five hits in 4.2 innings.

Chris Newstrom got the start in left field and was the lone Vol to have multiple hits in the game, finishing 2-for-3 with a run scored.

Leadoff man Terrence Kiel II and catcher Bear Harrison both had three-hit performances for Texas A&M while Jace LaViolette and Caden Sorrell had two RBIs apiece.
 

Game 2: Texas A&M 17, Tennessee 6 (8 Inn.)

Texas A&M carried its momentum over from game one with a three-run top of the first in game two of Saturday’s twin bill. Bear Harrison hit the first of seven Aggies’ home runs for the game as they clinched the series with a 17-6 victory in eight innings.

After falling behind 4-0, Tennessee looked to gain some momentum with two runs in the bottom of the third to cut its deficit in half, however, Texas A&M squashed that immediately with a six-run top of the fourth, followed by four more runs in the fifth to build a commanding 14-2 lead.

Wyatt Henseler led the way for the Aggies with three hits and five RBIs, including a pair of long balls. Second baseman Ben Royo also homered twice for A&M.

Four Vols finished with multiple hits in the game in Dean Curley, Dalton Bargo, Chris Newstrom and Cannon Peebles. Newstrom was a bright spot for the Big Orange throughout the doubleheader, finishing with a pair of multi-hit games and four total hits for the day.

Hunter Ensley also drove in three runs with a home run into the porches in the bottom of the seventh inning.

Tegan Kuhns suffered his first loss of the year after allowing four runs on four hits and three walks in just 2.2 innings. Fellow freshman Brayden Krenzel also had a rough outing, surrendering five runs in just one inning of relief.

Junior lefthander Myles Patton earned the win for the Aggies after striking out seven batters over six innings of work.
 

Up Next

Tennessee will look to regroup against Alabama State on Tuesday night at Lindsey Nelson Stadium before heading to Oxford for a big series at Ole Miss next weekend.

Vote For Your Favorite Dogwood Arts Chalk Square!

Vote For Your Favorite Dogwood Arts Chalk Square!

Posted on April 4, 2025

Vote For Your Favorite Dogwood Arts Chalk Square!

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TO DONATE TO DOGWOOD ARTS CLICK HERE

“Dolly’s Joleans” Bring Country and Glam in Dolly’s New Denim Fashion Line

“Dolly’s Joleans” Bring Country and Glam in Dolly’s New Denim Fashion Line

Posted on April 2, 2025

(Story courtesy of WVLT News)

Nashville, TN (WSMV) Country music icon Dolly Parton is bringing her signature sparkle to the fashion world.

The limited edition denim line is called “Dolly’s Joleans,” named after her famous song “Jolene.”

Parton is collaborating with the brand Good American, which was co-founded by Khloé Kardashian. The brand is the first fully inclusive fashion brand, which offers pieces from size 00 to 32 Plus.

The line features denim pieces and tops with shimmering rhinestones and other glitzy details.

Parton says the jeans will “make any butt look good.”

The collection will be available for a limited time online and in-stores starting April 3rd. Prices range from $79 to $229.

The limited edition denim line is called “Dolly’s Joleans,” named after her famous song “Jolene.” (Courtesy: WVLT)
Blount Memorial Downtown Dash for Breast Cancer- May 10th

Blount Memorial Downtown Dash for Breast Cancer- May 10th

Posted on April 2, 2025

Join Blount Memorial Saturday, May 10 as they host their Inaugural Downtown Dash for Breast Cancer to honor breast cancer survivors, remember those who have fought the battle, and raise money to expand access to life-saving breast cancer screening and diagnostic services right here in Blount County! Gather for this event at Blount Memorial Health Center at Springbrook – 220 Associates Blvd. Alcoa, TN.

Did you know 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime? Early detection is the best protection! So let’s raise money to add an additional mammography machine to Prisma Health-Blount Memorial’s Breast Center! One with that allows for contrast enhanced mammography to eliminate uncomfortable MRI’s and expand access to screening and diagnostic services! In 2024, the Breast Center did 12,217 screening exams and diagnosed 95 breast cancers – talk to your doctor and see when you should begin getting mammograms!

Register Today!

Dash Details:

Dash Deadlines:

  • Early Bird Registration Ends: Monday, April 21 at 11:59pm
  • Registration Deadline for T-shirt (before the event): Friday, April 25 at 5:00pm
  • Online Registration Deadline: Monday, May 5 at 5:00pm
  • Packet Pick-up & In-Person Registration Location and Times:
    • Thursday, May 8 7am – 6pm @Prisma Health – Blount Memorial Hospital Ground Floor Garden of Life Entrance
    • Friday, May 9 noon – 4pm @Prisma Health – Blount Memorial Hospital Ground Floor Garden of Life Entrance
  • DASH DAY DETAILS:
    • Packet pickup begins at 7:00am
    • Dash Expo opens at 7:30am
    • Gather at the Dash Start Line 8:15am
    • Downtown Dash for Breast Cancer 5k starts 8:30am COURSE MAP here
  • DASH DAY PARKING:
    • Parking lots – around Blount Memorial Health Center Springbrook more details to follow
  • RESULTS:
    • KTC will be timing our event and Dash Results will be posted on our website Sunday morning (certified course number to follow)

Additional Details:

Huge thank you to our Sponsors!

All children must be accompanied by legal guardian or caregiver at all times.

This event will take place rain or shine!

Posted on April 1, 2025

NASHVILLE, Tenn. —  With the federal REAL ID travel requirement taking effect on May 7, the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security will open 19 Driver Services Centers across the state on Saturday, April 5, for REAL ID appointments only. 

The special Saturday openings are being offered by appointment only and are limited to customers seeking a REAL ID. Appointments are available to customers who already have a valid Tennessee driver license or identification card and bring the required documentation. Appointments must be scheduled in advance at www.tnrealid.gov. 

“This is all about being responsive to the needs of Tennesseans,” said Commissioner Jeff Long. “We know many people have work, school or family obligations during the week. That’s why we’re expanding access on a Saturday — to give customers more flexibility.” 

May 7 Is a Federal Implementation Date — Not a Deadline to Get a REAL ID 

The federal government will begin enforcing the REAL ID requirement on May 7, 2025, for certain types of identification. After that date, a REAL ID (or an alternative like a valid U.S. passport or military ID) will be required to: 

Board commercial domestic flights 

Enter secure federal facilities, such as military bases or federal buildings 

Tennessee residents can continue to get a REAL ID after May 7th. There is no state-imposed deadline, and your existing Tennessee driver license or ID will remain valid for other purposes, such as driving, voting, or accessing emergency services. 

“If you’re unsure whether you need a REAL ID, visit tnrealid.gov,” said Assistant Commissioner Russell Shoup. “If you don’t fly or access secure federal sites, you may not need one at all. But if you do, we want to make sure you have access to get one without stress.” 

Pro Tip: Check Nearby Counties for Availability 

Customers in urban or high-demand areas may consider booking appointments at Driver Services Centers in neighboring, less-populated counties where availability may be greater. 

Participating Driver Services Centers 

REAL ID Appointments Only – Saturday, April 5 

East Tennessee: 

Oak Ridge 

Knoxville – Strawberry Plains 

Rockwood 

Bonny Oaks 

Morristown 

Johnson City 

Middle Tennessee: 

Hickory Hollow 

Lebanon 

Murfreesboro – Samsonite Blvd 

Franklin 

Columbia 

Cookeville 

Clarksville 

West Tennessee: 

East Shelby 

Bartlett Express 

Jackson 

Oakland 

Trenton 

Savannah 

For more information on REAL ID, required documents, and to schedule your appointment, visit www.tnrealid.gov. 

WIVK’s $107,000 Birthday Game

WIVK’s $107,000 Birthday Game

Posted on March 31, 2025

It’s the WIVK $107,000 Birthday Game presented by Visit My Smokies, Sofas & More, and Ingles!

Have your birthday ready and listen to 107.7 WIVK weekdays for your chance to win $107,000!!

Listen to Joey and Nancy in the mornings weekdays during the 7 AM hour for the daily keyword!

Then Tune in at 9 AM, 11 AM, 2 PM, and 4 PM for your cue to call in with the keyword.

Tell us your birth date and if it matches the one we’ve chosen, you win $107,000!

The $107,000 Birthday Game is made possible because of our amazing sponsors!

The $107,000 Birthday Game is Weekdays April 14th to May 16th. Contestants can play once every 48 business hours.

A BIG THANK YOU to Visit My Smokies, Sofas & More, and Ingles!

For Official Contest Rules Click Here

Federal Government Cancels Almost $1M in Food Shipments to Second Harvest Food Bank

Federal Government Cancels Almost $1M in Food Shipments to Second Harvest Food Bank

Posted on March 31, 2025

Maryville, TN (WOKI) The federal government has canceled almost $1 million in food shipments to East Tennessee’s Second Harvest Food Bank.

Officials with Second Harvest say 21 tractor-trailer loads, more than 370,000 pounds of food, are paused due to a federal review of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Commodities Credit Corporation, the funding source for the food.

Second Harvest says the shipments were scheduled to arrive between April and July and that the cancellation will affect more than 31,000 East Tennesseans each month across each of the 18 counties they serve.

“The loss of these shipments is significant and impacts a critical element of our hunger-relief programs for communities in need,” – Executive Director Elaine Streno of Second Harvest Food Bank

Second Harvest is taking steps to replace the products at this time.

“While we’re concerned by the diminished capacity to serve our neighbors, we remain committed to strengthening food access for East Tennesseans and provide adequate nutrition for a healthy life,” said Elaine Streno, executive director of Second Harvest. “This is a crucial time for our community to step up. We ask the public to continue supporting our hunger-relief efforts by hosting food drives and providing financial support. Together, we will provide adequate nutrition for more than 200,000 individuals who experience food insecurity.”

Matthew Blondell with Second Harvest said that families in East Tennessee who rely on food assistance may soon face shortages as major federal funding cuts to the USDA have disrupted food bank shipments nationwide.

For more information about Second Harvest’s food access programs, or to support: SecondHarvestETN.org.

Families in East Tennessee who rely on food assistance may soon face shortages. (Courtesy: WVLT)
Tennessee Department of Transportation Traffic Alert for Alcoa Highway in Knox County

Tennessee Department of Transportation Traffic Alert for Alcoa Highway in Knox County

Posted on March 31, 2025

KNOXVILLE – Motorists traveling on Alcoa Highway (US 129/State Route 115) in Knox County should be aware of upcoming road construction activities that will have a temporary impact on traffic.

Beginning on Monday, March 31, and continuing through Saturday, April 5, the contractor will perform rolling roadblocks on Alcoa Highway (US 129/State Route 115) between Woodson Drive and Cherokee Trail. These rolling roadblocks will take place in short intervals (approximately 20 minutes each) and will be spaced out to allow traffic to return to normal flow between operations. These rolling roadblocks will be intermittent daily between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. and are necessary to allow crews to safely mobilize equipment and perform rock excavation and clearing activities.

In addition, beginning on Monday, March 31, and continuing through Saturday, April 5, crews will be conducting flagging operations on the ramp from northbound Alcoa Highway (US 129/State Route 115) at the traffic signal at Cherokee Trail and along Cherokee Trail between the Alcoa Highway interchange and Medical Center Way. These flagging operations will take place daily between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. and are necessary to allow crews to unload materials and for trucks to safely enter and exit the work areas.

Also, Life Star Road will be closed to thru traffic the nights of Wednesday, April 2 and Thursday, April 3, between 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. to allow crews to install new storm drainpipe across the roadway.  Motorists should avoid using Life Star Road during these times and use Medical Center Way as an alternate route.

This schedule is contingent on favorable weather conditions.  Motorists are advised to expect delays and use extreme caution in this area as workers will be present.

As always, drivers are reminded to use all motorist information tools wisely and “Know Before You Go!” by checking travel conditions before leaving for your destination. Drivers should never tweet, text, or talk on a cell phone while behind the wheel.

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