Rick Barnes and Tennessee brought in veteran guard for surprise official visit

Is a new commitment on the way for Barnes?
Nov 6, 2023; Durham, North Carolina, USA; Dartmouth Big Green guard Ryan Cornish (10) controls the ball in front of Duke Blue Devils center Kyle Filipowski(30) during the first half at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-Imagn Images
Nov 6, 2023; Durham, North Carolina, USA; Dartmouth Big Green guard Ryan Cornish (10) controls the ball in front of Duke Blue Devils center Kyle Filipowski(30) during the first half at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-Imagn Images | Rob Kinnan-Imagn Images

Could some good news be on the way soon for Tennessee basketball? As things stand, the Vols have one roster spot left. While the team was previously linked with USC transfer guard Desmond Claude, there's a new sharpshooter to keep an eye on.

That'd be former Dartmouth standout Ryan Cornish. According to On3's Joe Tipton and Rocky Top Insider's Ryan Schumpert, Cornish was in Knoxville for his official visit which started on Sunday and wrapped up on Monday.

Cornish is coming off a fantastic season with Dartmouth, which led to him taking home All-Ivy League honors. He remains in the portal looking for his next stop. Is a move to Knoxville in the works for him to play for Rick Barnes next campaign?

Tennessee basketball hosted SG Ryan Cornish for an official visit

Cornish originally signed with Dartmouth as a member of the 2021 class. He has spent the past four campaigns with the program, highlighted by his stellar 2024-25 season. Last year, the 6-4, 170-pounder averaged 17.1 points, 4.9 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game.

With his experience alone, Cornish would be able to provide the Vols with needed help. At this time, it's unknown which other teams have been showing interest in him. It's also unknown if he has other official visits on the way later this month.

Barnes has been working overtime this offseason to improve the roster for 2025-26, highlighted by landing Maryland transfer Ja'Kobi Gillespie and 5-star forward Nate Ament. People are still buzzing over those two getting ready to suit up for the Vols.

Tennessee is still putting the finishing touches on its roster for next season. Cornish potentially being part of said roster is now a possibility. Don't forget that fan favorite Zakai Zeigler is still going through a legal battle to try and get a fifth year of eligibility with Tennessee too.