Tennessee men’s basketball head coach Rick Barnes signed a lifetime contract on Thursday.
The 2025-26 men’s basketball campaign will mark the 11th season for the Vols under Barnes. He has compiled a 232–109 (111–66 SEC) record since 2015.
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Barnes guided Tennessee to back-to-back NCAA Tournament Elite Eight appearances from 2024-25.
“Rick has taken our program to unprecedented heights, and we are absolutely thrilled to have him continue coaching on Rocky Top for the rest of his career,” Tennessee vice chancellor and director of athletics Danny White announced. “He has constructed this program the right way, achieving elite-level success on the court while also ensuring that all our players excel off the court.”
More: Rick Barnes through the years
Barnes also discussed signing a lifetime contract.
“I am incredibly thankful God brought me to the University of Tennessee 10-and-a-half years ago. It is an honor and a blessing to serve as the head basketball coach here,” he said. “I have had the chance to meet so many wonderful people, both on and off campus, who have impacted my life. The Knoxville community means so much not just to me, but to my entire family.
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“I am beyond grateful to Randy Boyd, Donde Plowman and Danny White for their continued belief in our program. Tennessee basketball would not be where it is today without the consistent efforts of so many players, coaches and staff members whom I am forever indebted to. Their relentless dedication and the unrivaled support of Vol nation are truly why we have been so successful.”
More: Danny White receives contract extension
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This article originally appeared on Vols Wire: Rick Barnes signs lifetime contract with Vols
