Barnes Lands Grant for Tennessee Basketball

0:00On April 28th, Tennessee basketball coach Rick Barnes just landed a big hire with Earl Grand Joining as assistant coach. Grant got let go from Boston College back in March but wasn't even job hunting. Barnes brought him on April 23rd to run the team's defense, calling it a total home run move. Their connection goes way back. Grant followed Barnes during his Clemson days and they built a bond recruiting and chatting coaching life. When Grant took his first head job at College of Charleston, Barnes gave him key advice on focusing on defense, rebounding, and ball security. Everyone Grant met during his Knoxville visit was sold on him right away from athletic director Danny White on down. Barnes knew his old friend's passion for the game and love of learning made him perfect for the spot. Grant passed on other head coaching gigs because this felt like the right path, especially with faith guiding the quick process. Banks had called him twice, first about players, then sealing the deal. Now Grant's all in to help Barnes chase that first final four, putting service first

1:02for the mentor who shaped him. Tennessee's staff just got stronger for the road ahead.