University of Tennessee Star Mashack Selected 59th Overall by Houston Rockets in 2025 NBA Draft

Jahmai Mashack, a standout from the University of Tennessee men’s basketball team, was selected No. 59 overall in the 2025 NBA Draft by the Houston Rockets. His rights are expected to transfer to the Memphis Grizzlies as part of a trade.

This pick marks a significant moment in Tennessee’s basketball history. Mashack becomes the 57th player ever drafted from Tennessee and the third to be picked by Memphis. Before him, the last two were Fred Jenkins and Michael Brooks, who were both drafted in the 1980s.

With Mashack’s selection, head coach Rick Barnes continues to build his legacy. Over his 38 years of coaching, 41 of his players have been drafted into the NBA. This year, Tennessee placed two players in the draft, with fifth-year guard Chaz Lanier going earlier as the 37th pick to the Detroit Pistons. It’s notable that Tennessee is one of only seven schools with multiple draftees this year, alongside celebrated programs like Duke and Kentucky.

Tennessee’s presence in the draft has gained momentum. This is the fifth consecutive year a Volunteer has been selected, putting them in a unique group of just five programs with this achievement. In fact, before this streak, Tennessee had only a two-year streak from 2014 to 2015 and a longer gap before that.

Mashack’s impact goes beyond just numbers. He helped lead Tennessee to a remarkable 109-36 record during his four years. The team made it to four NCAA Tournaments, including two Elite Eights and an SEC championship. He ties for the most wins as a four-year player at the program, being ranked in the Associated Press Poll for most of his time there.

In his senior season, Mashack started all 38 games. He averaged 6 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game, showcasing his defensive skills. He was recognized as a finalist for the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year and had impressive defensive stats, ranking second-best in the nation for defensive box plus-minus.

Beyond his athletic achievements, Mashack was also dedicated to community service, earning recognition as a two-time SEC Community Service Team member. His story captures not just personal success but highlights the growth of Tennessee basketball under Coach Barnes.

As Mashack embarks on his NBA journey, he joins a growing line of talent from this program, solidifying Tennessee’s reputation in the world of college basketball and beyond.



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