Tennessee took a break from its transfer portal haul Thursday afternoon, signing the state’s top prep basketball prospect.
Volunteers coach Rick Barnes announced that 6-foot-9, 200-pound forward Chris Washington Jr. will join a class containing fall signees Marquis Clark, Manny Green and Ralph Scott. Washington is from Gainesville, Florida, but attends Providence Christian Academy in Murfreesboro.
He is the nation’s No. 43 prospect nationally and the No. 1 Volunteer State recruit on the 247Sports.com composite rankings.
“We are happy to add Chris to a high school class that we are really enthused about,” Barnes said in a release. “Chris is a truly special athlete and, without a doubt, one of the finest in the country at the prep level. He is particularly impactful in transition and leaping off one foot. He can also stretch the floor and knock down 3-point shots, as well as grab offensive rebounds.
“At the defensive end, Chris has all the tools to become elite and is someone who can guard four positions. We always prioritize keeping talented players in-state and feel Chris will fit in well here on Rocky Top.”