Tennessee Volunteers Score Big on the Recruiting Trail as Four-Star Guard Freddie Dilione Officially Signs with the 2023 Class, Citing Two Major Reasons Behind His Decision to Choose the Vols and Play in Knoxville…Read More…..

The Tennessee Volunteers landed a major piece for their 2023 basketball recruiting class with the official signing of Freddie Dilione, a talented four-star guard who was one of the most sought-after backcourt prospects in the nation. For head coach Rick Barnes and the Vols, Dilione’s addition marked not only a win on the recruiting trail but also a statement about the program’s ability to attract elite talent in an era where competition for top players has never been tougher.

Dilione, a 6-foot-4 combo guard from Raleigh, North Carolina, was ranked among the top 30 prospects nationally by several recruiting services. Known for his ability to score at all three levels, handle the ball, and create plays for teammates, Dilione fits perfectly into Tennessee’s system that thrives on guard versatility and defensive toughness.

Why Tennessee? Two Key Reasons

When asked why he chose Tennessee over a list of impressive suitors that included Virginia, Wake Forest, Alabama, and others, Dilione didn’t hesitate to explain. He cited two major reasons that made Knoxville the right fit for him:

1. His belief in Rick Barnes’ development track record.

Dilione pointed to Barnes’ reputation for developing guards and preparing them for the next level as a decisive factor. “Coach Barnes has helped so many players take their game to the NBA,” Dilione explained. “He’s demanding, but he gets the best out of his players. I knew if I wanted to reach my full potential, Tennessee was the place to be.”

2. The culture and family atmosphere in Knoxville.

The second reason, according to Dilione, was the culture he experienced during his visits. He said the team’s brotherhood and the way the coaching staff prioritized relationships over just basketball stood out. “It wasn’t just about what I could do for them on the court,” Dilione said. “It was about me as a person, about being part of a family. That meant a lot.”

A Key Backcourt Addition

Dilione’s versatility makes him a valuable addition to the Vols’ backcourt. He can play either guard spot, creating matchup problems for opponents. On offense, his ability to penetrate and finish at the rim is complemented by a reliable jumper and strong vision as a passer. Defensively, he brings the kind of length and toughness that fits the Vols’ hard-nosed identity under Barnes.

Analysts have praised his balanced game. “Dilione is the type of guard who can do a little bit of everything,” one recruiting expert said. “He can score 20 if you need him to, but he’s just as comfortable setting up his teammates. That’s exactly the kind of guard Barnes loves to coach.”

Strengthening the 2023 Class

Dilione joined fellow 2023 signees Cameron Carr, Cade Phillips, and J.P. Estrella, forming one of the most balanced classes Barnes has assembled in recent years. Each brings a unique skill set, but Dilione is considered the centerpiece due to his ability to make an immediate impact.

The Vols also bolstered their roster with transfer Chris Ledlum from Harvard, giving Tennessee both young talent and experienced depth heading into the season. Together, the newcomers added a fresh layer of excitement for a fan base already buzzing about the program’s continued rise.

Building for the Future

Dilione’s signing was also significant in the broader scope of Tennessee basketball. It showed that the Vols could not only compete for top talent but also beat out traditional powerhouses for players who fit their system. For Barnes, who has consistently emphasized fit and culture over rankings alone, Dilione checked every box.

“He’s a young man who works hard, plays the right way, and understands what it takes to win,” Barnes said during the signing announcement. “We’re excited to welcome Freddie to our program and help him grow both on and off the court.”

Fan Excitement

The news of Dilione’s signing was met with excitement across Vol Nation. On social media, fans highlighted his mix of athleticism and maturity, with some calling him the kind of player who could be a program-changer. Many also pointed to his decision as validation of Barnes’ steady hand in recruiting and his ability to connect with players beyond the court.

“Love the way this kid talks about family and development,” one fan tweeted. “He’s exactly the type of player who thrives here.”

Final Thoughts

For Tennessee, the signing of Freddie Dilione in the 2023 class represented more than just another talented addition—it was a signal of intent. It showed that the Vols remain a force in recruiting, capable of securing elite guards who can help maintain the program’s momentum in the SEC and on the national stage.

By citing development and culture as his main reasons for committing, Dilione underscored what makes Tennessee unique under Rick Barnes. For Vol Nation, it’s another reason to believe the program is built not only to compete but to thrive well into the future.