No. 1 Recruit Andrej Stojaković Stuns the Nation by Committing to Tennessee Basketball, Citing Two Key Reasons Behind His Game-Changing Decision … read more …

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the college basketball world, five-star recruit and top national prospect Andrej Stojaković has officially committed to the Tennessee Volunteers. The son of former NBA All-Star Peja Stojaković, Andrej’s decision comes as a major win for Tennessee head coach Rick Barnes, who continues to build one of the most formidable programs in the SEC.

Stojaković, previously with the California Golden Bears, had been one of the most sought-after transfers and recruits in recent memory. Known for his elite shooting, smooth scoring ability, and high basketball IQ, the 6-foot-7 guard/forward had drawn heavy interest from powerhouse programs like Duke, Kentucky, and North Carolina. Yet, in a surprising twist, he chose the Tennessee Volunteers—a program that has been making steady strides toward national prominence.

When asked about his decision, Andrej revealed that two major reasons guided his commitment: Tennessee’s player development system and the winning culture cultivated under Coach Barnes.

> “The way Coach Barnes develops players for the next level really stood out to me,” Stojaković explained. “I’ve watched how guys like Grant Williams and Keon Johnson grew in this program. The staff knows how to prepare players both mentally and physically for the NBA.”

His second reason spoke volumes about Tennessee’s growing reputation as a team that not only competes but consistently wins on the big stage.

> “Tennessee’s culture is about competing every single day,” he added. “They play with toughness and discipline, and that’s something I want to be part of. I want to win championships, and I believe Knoxville is the right place to make that happen.”

A Massive Win for Tennessee Basketball

For Coach Barnes and his staff, Stojaković’s commitment is more than just a recruiting victory—it’s a statement. Tennessee has been on a steady rise in recent years, known for its physical defense, disciplined play, and ability to attract NBA-caliber talent. Adding a player of Andrej’s caliber immediately elevates the Vols’ offensive potential and national standing.

Recruiting experts have praised the move, calling it one of the most impactful commitments of the year.

> “This is a huge win for Tennessee,” said ESPN analyst Jeff Borzello. “Andrej Stojaković brings elite perimeter scoring, court vision, and versatility. He’s the kind of player who can completely change the trajectory of a program.”

Stojaković averaged 13.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 1.7 assists during his last season with Cal, showcasing a deadly shooting touch from beyond the arc and the ability to create his own shot against top competition. His well-rounded offensive game is expected to mesh perfectly with Tennessee’s system, which emphasizes spacing, unselfish play, and defensive intensity.

The Volunteer Effect

Tennessee’s basketball program has seen remarkable growth over the past decade. Under Barnes, the Volunteers have become perennial NCAA Tournament contenders and one of the SEC’s most respected teams. The addition of Stojaković not only strengthens their lineup but also enhances their recruiting profile moving forward.

Fans across Knoxville have already begun celebrating the news, flooding social media with excitement. The “Rocky Top” faithful believe this could be the missing piece to push Tennessee deeper into March Madness contention.

> “We’ve been waiting for a player like this,” said one Tennessee fan on X (formerly Twitter). “Andrej is the kind of scorer that can carry a team when it matters most. This feels like the start of something special.”

Looking Ahead

With Stojaković’s commitment, Tennessee’s 2025 recruiting class is shaping up to be one of the strongest in the nation. The Vols are also targeting several other top prospects, hoping to build a roster capable of challenging the nation’s elite.

For Andrej, the move represents both a new challenge and a new chapter. He brings not just his talent but also the legacy of his father, Peja, who was one of the NBA’s most efficient shooters and a model of professionalism.

> “My dad told me to find a place that feels right, not just a place with a big name,” Andrej said. “When I visited Tennessee, it felt like home.”

That sense of belonging, combined with Tennessee’s winning formula, ultimately sealed the deal.

Final Thoughts

In the ever-competitive world of college basketball recruiting, landing a player like Andrej Stojaković is a monumental achievement. His decision to join Tennessee reflects both the program’s growing prestige and its ability to attract players who want to win now and develop for the future.

With Stojaković in the mix, the Volunteers instantly become a team to watch—not just in the SEC, but across the entire nation. As the 2025 season approaches, Tennessee fans can already feel the excitement building in Knoxville.

Andrej Stojaković’s arrival isn’t just another commitment. It’s a declaration that the Tennessee Volunteers are here to compete with the very best—now and for years to come.