KNOXVILLE – The offseason came quickly for the Tennessee basketball Volunteers.
One day after the season-ending loss to Middle Tennessee State in the National Invitation Tournament’s second round, the Vols got an expected departure and a surprise future arrival that will bring implications for next season’s roster.
Renaldo Woolridge has received a medical redshirt waiver from the NCAA for a fifth season of eligibility, but the senior forward will transfer to another school to play next season, according to UT associate media relations director Tom Satkowiak.
The 6-foot-9 California native made 25 appearances and started four games for the Vols this season after playing in eight games as a junior. He averaged 4.3 points per game and had highs of 17 against UNC-Asheville in December and top-ranked Kentucky in January, but he struggled to hold a consistent spot in UT’s frontcourt rotation. If Woolridge graduates in May, he’d be eligible immediately at his new school.
During his career, Woolridge became more known for his musical talents. He released a number of rap songs under the artist name “Swiperboy.” His biggest on-court moment was in UT’s stunning upset of Kansas two seasons ago, when Woolridge had 14 points, eight rebounds and four 3-pointers against the top-ranked Jayhawks.