Volunteer Country

Is This Jahmai Mashack's Breakout Year?

Forward Jahmai Mashack could have an expanded role for the Tennessee Volunteers next season.

Jonathan Lidskin

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As injuries piled up, Tennessee was desperate and looking for answers. Josiah-Jordan James went down, Julian Phillips was working through a minor injury, and of course, Vescovi was still finding his footing after his injury from earlier in the season. Looking for any sort of spark, Jahmai Mashack stepped up, filling some gaps that the Vols had been searching for.

Now, in 2023-24, Mashack could be ready to step into a bigger role. While he likely won't ever be a high-usage offensive player in Knoxville, without Phillips, someone has to be the anchor of that defense. Why can't it be Mashack? After starting 13 games down the stretch and seeing his minutes skyrocket, this could be a role that Mashack is ready for. We know that Rick Barnes prefers versatile players to be the guy that sets the tone defensively. Guys like Grant Williams, Yves Pons, and Julian Phillips could all guard on the perimeter or in the post. While Mashack is just 6'4, he can guard bigger perimeter players, as we saw in the win over Alabama when he drew the assignment of Brandon Miller.

As long as Mashack can get stronger in the off-season and not be a complete liability on the offensive end, he'll be a huge part of winning for Tennessee next season. He might be behind some guys in the rotation, as Tennessee's guard depth is absurd, but that shouldn't hinder his impact.

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Jonathan Lidskin
JONATHAN LIDSKIN