Maryland transfer Ja’Kobi Gillespie is headed back home, committing to the University of Tennessee for the upcoming season. A native of Greeneville, Tennessee, Gillespie returns to his home state after a strong collegiate journey that began at Belmont and took him to the Big Ten.
Gillespie spent two productive seasons at Belmont, where he developed into a dynamic scorer and reliable backcourt presence. After transferring to Maryland, he continued to shine, averaging 14.7 points per game during the 2024-25 season. His efficiency stood out, shooting 45.3% from the field and an impressive 40.7% from beyond the arc. Despite Maryland’s struggles, Gillespie emerged as a bright spot with his ability to create shots, stretch defenses, and contribute on both ends of the floor.
Tennessee adds a proven scorer and experienced guard to its backcourt, which is undergoing a transition following the departures of key players. Gillespie’s shooting touch and versatility make him an immediate asset in Rick Barnes’ system, which emphasizes perimeter play and disciplined defense. His return to the Volunteer State also brings an emotional component to his commitment, as he’ll have the opportunity to represent his hometown on the biggest stage in college basketball.
With Gillespie on board, the Vols bolster their roster with a player who brings not just numbers, but leadership and toughness. He’ll likely compete for a starting role immediately and could become a key figure in Tennessee’s pursuit of another deep NCAA Tournament run.
Gillespie’s commitment is a significant win for the Volunteers in the transfer portal, reflecting both their strong in-state ties and national competitiveness. As he suits up in orange, the former Belmont star will look to write the next chapter of his career just a few hours from where it all
began.
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