The Philadelphia 76ers selected Tennessee guard Jaden Springer with the 28th pick in the 2021 NBA Draft Thursday.
Springer joins former Vol Keon Johnson as Tennessee’s first one-and-done prospects since 2011 when Tobias Harris was drafted in the first round after one season in Knoxville.
The Charlotte, North Carolina native earned Freshman All SEC honors in 2021, averaging 12.5 points, 3.5 rebounds and 2.9 assists per game. Springer was Tennessee’s leading scorer, proving to be an offensive threat from three levels.
The 6-foot-4 guard shot 47% from the field, 81% from the free throw line and 44% from three-point range— though he attempted just 46 triples— while being a high level finisher at the basket.
According to shot quality, Springer is the second best player in the 2021 NBA draft class at finishing around the basket.
The former-five star recruit has the tools to be a strong two-way player in the NBA, impressing in Knoxville with his effort and ability on the defensive end of the floor.
The 2021 draft marks the second time ever and the first time since 1977 that Tennessee has had two players selected in the first round of the NBA Draft. It was the iconic Ernie and Bernie Show that year, with the New Jersey Nets selecting Bernard King with the No. 7 pick and the Milwaukee Bucks selecting Ernie Grunfeld with the No. 11 pick.
Springer became the fifth highest drafted player from Tennessee in the 21st century.
