More often than not, the comps are made by people outside of an NBA team — analysts, reporters, etc. That’s not the case with Utah Jazz draft pick Kyle Filipowski, who has been compared to Kelly Olynyk by NBA scouts, coaches and executives, and it’s a comparison that Filipowski welcomes.
“Kelly Olynyk’s had an incredible career and he’s a really great player. I think that’s a great comparison,” the 32nd overall pick in the 2024 draft said Tuesday. “And at the same time, I think there’s always other comparisons you can make, no matter who it is. I think the most important thing is just trying to be myself out there and not feel confined by any limits.”
Buford High School linebacker Jadon Perlotte is one of the most physically gifted defenders in America. The long-time Georgia commit has always kept an open recruitment, and Tennessee has actively recruited him for a long time. The Vols had a lot of buzz after his official visit this summer and are swinging hard to make him the centerpiece of their linebacker class.
Providence Day School offensive tackle David Sanders Jr. is officially in decision mode after a flurry of official visits this summer. It seems like his recruitment will stretch into August, with a decision coming before his senior season. There are several blue blood programs still fighting for his services, but this battle likely comes down to Ohio State vs. Tennessee. Sanders would be the highest-rated commit to join Tennessee under head coach Josh Heupel.
Surviving the race for Travis Smith
Westlake High School wide receiver Travis Smith will commit to Alabama, Auburn, Georgia, or Tennessee on July 13. The talented Peach State native has favored the Bulldogs throughout his recruitment, but recent developments point to the Vols as a top suitor for his services. He ranks as the No. 75 prospect in the 2025 class, according to the On3 Industry Rankings, and would be Tennessee’s third wide receiver commit in the 2025 class.