The University of Tennessee and Auburn University have often not been fond of one another. The two schools developed a strong rivalry on the football field, playing every season until the SEC split into divisions in 1992.
Bruce Pearl’s arrival at Auburn combined with the resurgence of Tennessee’s basketball program under Rick Barnes has led to an increased rivalry on the hardwood.
However, the schools’ rivalry is nothing compared to both universities disdain for the University of Alabama. That hatred was on display Wednesday afternoon at the Hoover Met when an Auburn fan traded his Tiger gear for Tennessee orange to troll Alabama.
More From RTI: Tennessee Basketball Lands Four-Star Alabama Legacy
Jack — the fan in questioned — first garnered attention on the SEC Network broadcast for taking a nap during the Alabama/Arkansas game.
He’s just getting some early rest for tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/VdeBOLQOeo
— Trey Wallace (@TreyWallace_) May 25, 2022
The SEC Network sent a sideline reporter to do some follow up research and that led to the in game interview where Jack disclosed his Auburn fandom and simple reason for donning Big Orange gear.
“I just hate Alabama,” Jack said.
Jeff is all of us! Welcome to Big Orange Country Jeff! #Vols #BamaSucks #SECBSB pic.twitter.com/93zihmxSx5
— Lurch (@LurchUTK) May 25, 2022
According to an article from Outkick’s Trey Wallace, Jack is a big fan of Tennessee outfielder Drew Gilbert and already had the Vols’ t-shirt jersey. After a pair of late inning Kentucky home runs pushed Auburn from the 2022 SEC Tournament, Jack went to his car to blow off some steam and change into the Tennessee gear to poke at the Alabama fans.
Jack is back at the Hoover Met on Thursday, rocking the Tennessee hat but ditching the Drew Gilbert t-shirt jersey.
The Vols were originally supposed to play on Wednesday night. However, bad weather pushed the second round matchup against Vanderbilt to Thursday.
Tennessee is now poised to begin play at the SEC Tournament Thursday night at approximately 7 p.m. ET. First pitch between the Vols and rival Vanderbilt is set for 30 minutes following the end of the Florida versus Texas A&M game.
