The Tennessee basketball team has already dealt with one COVID-19 outbreak—it is now dealing with a second.
“The Tennessee men’s basketball program has paused all team activities following multiple positive COVID-19 test results among its Tier 1 personnel, which consists of coaches, student-athletes, team managers and support staff,” Monday afternoon’s press release said. “The positive test results were detected during routine COVID-19 surveillance testing, which is conducted three times a week in accordance with NCAA and SEC guidelines.”
Head coach Rick Barnes is among those who tested positive. He is currently in isolation protocol.
Tennessee was set to begin its season on Wednesday night against Charlotte as part of the Volunteer Classic. The Vols are also scheduled to play VCU on Friday night. The school is expected to provide an update on the status of those games by Tuesday.
“The basketball program is following SEC, local and university public health guidelines to prioritize the health and safety of all student-athletes and staff as well as the campus and local community,” the press release said.
Tennessee was picked to win the SEC in the preseason media poll earlier this month. The Vols are ranked No. 12 in the AP Top 25 entering the season.
