Tennessee had a loaded frontcourt last season that led the nation in offensive rebounding, and despite all that talent, 6-foot-8 freshman forward DeWayne Brown II worked his way into the starting lineup. Even with Felix Okpara, a second-round NBA Draft pick, along with Jaylen Carey and JP Estrella on the roster, Brown worked his way into the rotation and became a valuable piece for Tennessee last season.
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In 14 minutes a night, Brown averaged 4.8 points and 3.6 rebounds while shooting nearly 60% from the field. But it was the things that didn’t show up in the box score that made him so valuable. He was always setting good screens, active in passing lanes on defense, staying attached to his man, boxing out, and doing all the little things that don’t appear in the stat sheet. That’s how he found his way into the starting lineup last season.
This season, Tennessee fans and the coaching staff are expecting a big jump from the sophomore big man, who decided to stay even when nearly the entire roster entered the Transfer Portal.
When Rick Barnes was asked about DeWayne Brown's progress, he was very happy to share that Brown has made major strides in his game.
“So much. He had a great spring when all the portal was going on. He was here every day working to get better. He’s added a lot to his game. He’s continuing to add his outside game to it. But physically he’s in great shape and he’s really been a terrific leader so far with these guys and he’ll do that. But he’s going to have a great year just because of his work ethic.”
DeWayne Brown could have huge sophomore year
Barnes is hinting at something big in store for Brown next season, which could be very significant. What I like most is how Barnes mentions Brown is developing a jumper. If he can become even just a respectable shooter, it makes him and Tennessee’s offense much more dangerous. Ultimately, on a brand-new roster, it’s great to see Brown stepping up and being a voice as just a sophomore. That means something, and you have to appreciate that.
It might be fair to say Brown will never be a 20-point-per-game guy, and that’s totally okay. If he gives you around 10 points a night while doing all the little things he already does so well, that’s perfect. Think a bigger Jahmai Mashack at Tennessee, because if Brown becomes that type of impact glue guy, it’s more than enough.
If I had to guess, Brown will probably come off the bench next season, but he could still work his way into the starting five if he beats out Miles Rubin. The lineup will likely feature Hill at the one, Ames at the two, and Harris and Haralson at the three and four, with Rubin at the five.
Brown could also slide into the four spot, and that might even push Ames out of the lineup. Tennessee has so much depth that Barnes will have to get creative to make sure everyone gets the minutes they deserve.
Next season has a chance to be the biggest in Vols basketball history, and it will likely be on the backs of hard-working players like Brown. He could end up being one of the most important pieces on a potential Final Four team next season.
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