Rick Barnes Provides Update on Tyler Lundblade's Injury Status

On Tuesday, head coach Rick Barnes shared that Lundblade is making progress following a back procedure he had this summer, though he is not yet fully ready to participate. Barnes noted, “He’s doing okay. He’s back there... Chad (Newman) said he loaded him to 190 pounds on the treadmill, which means he’s getting real close to having full weight. From there, I would assume he’ll take it to some grass and turn loose a little bit.” Barnes emphasized the importance of following medical protocol, stating that while Lundblade is eager to return, they will adhere to the doctors' recommendations.

Lundblade expressed hope that he won't miss any games this season, though he acknowledged in late September that there was no set timetable for his return. “It’s been a challenge,” Lundblade said. “It’s definitely been frustrating. Nobody wants to be hurt, especially coming into a new place in my last year.” He added that he was fortunate to arrive early at Tennessee, allowing him some time to prepare despite the setback.

Last season at Belmont, Lundblade averaged 15.6 points per game, shooting 43% from the field and 40.6% from three-point range. He also averaged 2.7 rebounds and 1.8 assists. Lundblade is now in his fourth season of college basketball, having previously played two years at TCU before transferring.

Tennessee's first public appearance is scheduled for October 15 in an exhibition game against Xavier at Food City Center, followed by another exhibition against Duke on October 20. The regular season opener is set for November 3 against Wofford.