B.J. Edwards Transfers from Tennessee to SMU Basketball: Here’s Why
B.J. Edwards left Tennessee after one season and became a starter at SMU. He could face his former team if SMU beats Miami (Ohio) in the First Four on March 18 in Dayton, Ohio.
SMU season and role
The 6-foot-3, 200-pound guard started all 28 games for the Mustangs. He averaged 12.7 points and shot 37 percent from beyond the arc.
Edwards ranked second on SMU with 138 assists. He also led the team with 65 steals.
Brief Tennessee tenure
Edwards played as a freshman at Tennessee in 2022-23. He appeared in 14 games and averaged 4.3 minutes with 1.2 points per contest.
After that season, Tennessee reworked its roster. Several incoming players reduced immediate opportunities for returning young guards.
Vols roster changes
- Early enrollee guard Freddie Dilione joined the program in January.
- Freshmen additions included four-star JP Estrella and four-star guard Cameron Carr.
- Three-star forward Cade Phillips was also signed.
- Transfers added were Jordan Gainey, Dalton Knecht, and Chris Ledlum.
- Returning guards Jahmai Mashack and Zakai Zeigler bolstered depth.
- Santiago Vescovi opted for a fifth year, creating veteran guard continuity.
Prospect background and coaching view
Edwards was the No. 104 recruit in the 247Sports Composite. He was Tennessee’s lone signee in the 2022 cycle.
Coach Rick Barnes praised Edwards as a versatile guard. Barnes highlighted his defensive intensity, scoring efficiency, and playmaking upside.
Why the move made sense
With crowded backcourt depth at Tennessee, Edwards sought a larger role. SMU offered a starting spot and a chance to showcase his skills.
B.J. Edwards transfers from Tennessee to SMU in search of playing time and development. The move led to increased production and leadership responsibility.
Reported by Filmogaz.com.
