And now for our first real surprise of portal season — Tennessee center J.P. Estrella is set to hit the transfer portal. The sophomore big man had a breakout season with the Volunteers this season, averaging 18 minutes per game and scoring ten points per game.
We heard some chatter about this during the morning hours, and now it’s official. Some rumors suggest Estrella’s dollar figure essentially priced him out of Tennessee’s 2026-27 plans.
Estrella’s offense really shined in spots this season in the paint, capped with three outings of 20 points or more. The Maine native had some really big moments in Tennessee’s second round win over Virginia late in the game.
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The 6-11, 240 pound center is a former 4-star prospect. Estrella has battled injuries throughout his Tennessee career, missing a bit of time in late November this season. This coming after playing in just three games a season ago. It was a foot issue for Estrella, which seemed to linger around a bit early in the season.
When healthy, the ability definitely showed, although the consistency lacked. Estrella shot 59 percent from the field this season while averaging 5.4 rebounds per game. His skill and touch around the rim was impressive when he was locked in this season.
Tennessee has already lost Felix Okpara and Cade Phillips, now add Estrella. The Volunteers are left with Jaylen Carey and DeWayne Brown in the post on the roster as things stand. I would expect two high-level additions there at minimum as Rick Barnes sets his depth for the upcoming season.
The transfer portal officially opens up tomorrow.
