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Basketball Royalty: Tennessee to Retire Dalton Knecht’s Jersey in Historic Honor

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Basketball Royalty: Tennessee to Retire Dalton Knecht’s Jersey in Historic Honor

 

In a moment that cements his legacy in Tennessee basketball history, the University of Tennessee has officially announced it will retire Dalton Knecht’s jersey in a special ceremony during the upcoming basketball season. The celebration is set to take place at Thompson-Boling Arena during the Vols’ home opener in November — a tribute to a player who left an indelible mark on the program in just one unforgettable season.

 

Knecht, who transferred to Tennessee for the 2023–24 season, became an instant sensation in Knoxville. The 6-foot-6 guard out of Colorado turned heads across the nation with his explosive scoring, smooth shooting, and clutch performances. He averaged 21.7 points per game, led the Vols to an Elite Eight appearance, and earned SEC Player of the Year honors, as well as First Team All-American recognition.

 

“Dalton represented everything you want in a Tennessee Volunteer — toughness, humility, leadership, and relentless work ethic,” said head coach Rick Barnes. “He came here with one year of eligibility and gave us everything he had. His impact will be remembered forever.”

 

Knecht’s jersey retirement is particularly notable given that he spent only one season with the Vols. But that lone campaign was arguably one of the greatest individual seasons in program history. He lit up SEC arenas with multiple 30-point outings and was nearly unstoppable in postseason play, averaging over 25 points per game during Tennessee’s NCAA Tournament run.

 

Off the court, Knecht was known for his humility and team-first mentality. Despite being a star, he consistently deflected praise and elevated his teammates. His rise from a junior college standout to SEC superstar and eventual NBA first-round draft pick captured the hearts of Vol Nation and made him a symbol of perseverance and belief.

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Fans and alumni have been calling for his jersey to be raised to the rafters since his final game. The university heard the message loud and clear.

 

“Retiring Dalton’s jersey is about more than stats,” said Tennessee Athletic Director Danny White. “It’s about recognizing a player who inspired this campus, brought us thrilling memories, and embodied what it means to be a Volunteer. His jersey will now hang among the greats.”

 

The ceremony is expected to be emotional, with Knecht and his family in attendance, alongside former teammates and Tennessee legends. It will also be a moment of inspiration for current players, who look to follow in the footsteps of one of the program’s most beloved figures.

 

For Dalton Knecht, the journey from overlooked prospect to Tennessee legend is complete — and now, his name will forever hang in the rafters, a symbol of excellence, passion, and the power of believing in yourself.

 

“Once a Vol, always a Vol,” Knecht said in a statement. “I’m honored, humbled, and forever grateful.”

 

 

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