In a major recruiting win, the Tennessee Volunteers have secured the commitment of **David Sanders Jr.**, a 7-foot, five-star guard ranked as the No. 4 overall recruit for the 2025 class. Sanders, a rare blend of size, skill, and athleticism, has been highly sought after by top programs across the country. His decision to commit to Tennessee is a testament to the program’s growing reputation under head coach **Rick Barnes**, who continues to build the Vols into a national powerhouse.
David Sanders Jr. is no ordinary guard. Standing at 7 feet tall, he possesses the size of a traditional center but the skill set of a guard, making him one of the most unique and intriguing prospects in recent memory. His combination of ball-handling, shooting, and playmaking ability has earned him comparisons to some of the NBA’s most versatile stars. Despite his towering frame, Sanders moves with the fluidity of a much smaller player, creating mismatches that make him nearly impossible to defend.
In addition to his offensive skill set, Sanders has also drawn attention for his defensive versatility. His height and wingspan make him a natural shot-blocker, but his quick feet allow him to guard multiple positions on the perimeter. Whether it’s locking down an opposing guard or contesting shots in the paint, Sanders has the ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor.
Landing a player of Sanders’ caliber is a massive win for Tennessee, and it speaks volumes about the program’s trajectory. In recent years, the Volunteers have emerged as one of the premier teams in the SEC, regularly competing for conference titles and making deep runs in the NCAA Tournament. Head coach Rick Barnes has built a culture of development and success, turning Tennessee into a destination for top-tier talent.
Sanders’ commitment is a reflection of the program’s appeal, and it’s clear that Barnes’ track record of developing NBA-caliber players played a significant role in the decision. Tennessee has produced several first-round NBA draft picks in recent years, and Sanders will have the opportunity to follow in their footsteps. In his commitment announcement, Sanders cited his belief in Barnes’ coaching philosophy and the opportunity to develop his game at a high level as key factors in his decision.
“Tennessee felt like home from the moment I stepped on campus,” Sanders said. “Coach Barnes has a plan for me, and I trust that he’ll help me become the best player I can be. I’m excited to be part of something special.”
With the addition of David Sanders Jr., the Vols’ 2025 recruiting class is shaping up to be one of the best in the nation. Sanders is not only a five-star talent but also a player who can immediately elevate Tennessee’s standing in the SEC and nationally. His presence will provide the Vols with a unique weapon—a 7-foot guard capable of taking over games with his size and skill.
Sanders’ versatility allows him to fit into a variety of lineups, and his ability to play multiple positions gives Tennessee a strategic advantage. Whether he’s running the offense from the point guard position or serving as a secondary playmaker on the wing, Sanders will be a focal point of the Vols’ attack.
David Sanders Jr.’s commitment is a game-changer for Tennessee. As one of the top recruits in the 2025 class, his decision to join the Vols sends a strong message to the rest of the college basketball world—Tennessee is a force to be reckoned with. With Sanders leading the charge, the future looks incredibly bright for the Vols as they continue to build a program capable of competing for championships on a yearly basis.