Tennessee basketball landed its fifth commitment of the offseason on Thursday evening when four-star prep prospect Christopher Washington Jr committed and signed with the Vols.
The four-star wing is the top ranked player in the state of Tennessee in the 2026 recruiting cycle and the highest ranked of the Vols’ four prep signees.
“We are happy to add Chris to a high school class that we are really enthused about,” Tennessee head coach Rick Barnes said in a statement. “Chris is a truly special athlete and, without a doubt, one of the finest in the country at the prep level. He is particularly impactful in transition and leaping off one foot. He can also stretch the floor and knock down 3-point shots, as well as grab offensive rebounds.
“At the defensive end, Chris has all the tools to become elite and is someone who can guard four positions. We always prioritize keeping talented players in-state and feel Chris will fit in well here on Rocky Top.”
Washington ranks as a four-star recruit and the No. 43 player in the country according to the 247sports composite rankings. He also ranks as the No. 16 small forward and the top player in the state of Tennessee in the 2026 recruiting cycle.
More From RTI: Top Instate Prospect Chris Washington Commits To Tennessee Basketball
Washington originally committed to Alabama before backing off his commitment a few months later. Tennessee offered after his de-commitment, hosted him on a visit earlier this week and then got to the finish line of his recruitment.
Tennessee signed three players during the early signing period including four-star wing Ralph Scott, four-star Manny Green and three-star point guard Marquis Clark. With Washington in the fold, Tennessee’s 2026 recruiting class now ranks No. 9 in the 247sports team rankings.
The Vols have also landed four players in the transfer portal to date including Belmont sharpshooter Tyler Lundblade, Cal combo guard Dai Dai Ames, Cal wing Jalen Haralson and Loyola (Chicago) center Miles Rubin.
Tennessee is hosting VCU combo guard Terrence Hill Jr on a visit Thursday and is also pursuing Wake Forest guard Juke Harris.
With Washington in the fold, Tennessee currently has three scholarships to work with as it fills out its roster for next season. If Nate Ament declares for the NBA Draft then Tennessee will have four scholarships to work with.
