Four-star SF Chris Washington Jr. no longer visiting Tennessee

The highly-touted 2026 recruit has canceled his upcoming official visit to the University of Tennessee.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 11:23am

Chris Washington Jr., a four-star small forward in the 2026 class, will no longer be taking an official visit to the University of Tennessee this weekend. The 6-foot-8 standout from Providence Christian Academy in Tennessee had previously included Tennessee among his finalists, along with Cincinnati, Villanova, Auburn, and FAMU, after decommitting from Alabama in November.

Why it matters

Washington is considered one of the top small forward prospects in the 2026 recruiting class, ranked 31st overall by Rivals. His decision to cancel the Tennessee visit could signal a shift in his recruitment and the potential programs he may ultimately choose to join.

The details

According to reports, Washington was set to officially visit Tennessee this weekend but has now canceled those plans. The highly-touted prospect was previously a Tennessee finalist before decommitting from Alabama in November. Evaluators have praised Washington's combination of size, athleticism, and developing skill set, with Rivals analyst Jamie Shaw highlighting his motor, instincts, and production on the Under Armour AAU circuit.

  • Washington decommitted from Alabama in November 2025.
  • Washington was scheduled to officially visit Tennessee on January 30, 2026, but has now canceled those plans.

The players

Chris Washington Jr.

A four-star small forward in the 2026 recruiting class, ranked 31st overall by Rivals. The 6-foot-8 prospect attends Providence Christian Academy in Tennessee.

Tennessee

A Division I college basketball program in the Southeastern Conference, located in Knoxville, Tennessee.

Alabama

A Division I college basketball program in the Southeastern Conference, located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

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What they’re saying

“Watching (Chris) in this event, it is easy to see why he is thought of with such lofty regards. Washington is listed in the 6-foot-8 range, he is a fluid athlete who has ball skills and touch. His game is still coming together, as he is tightening up his skill set. He averaged 15.2 points while giving some impressive highlight dunks.”

— Jamie Shaw, Rivals Analyst

“Chris Washington has a great frame with length and athletic fluidity. The intrigue with the 6-foot-8 wing is his motor and instincts. He is an active rebounder, collecting weak side blocked shots and deflections. His offense was in transition and in straight lines at the rim. He will need to continue developing his ball skills and shooting range, but the production is there with his length and motor.”

— Jamie Shaw, Rivals Analyst

What’s next

Washington's recruitment remains fluid, with several top programs still vying for his commitment. His decision to cancel the Tennessee visit could signal a shift in his focus, and his next official visit destination will be closely watched by recruiting analysts.

The takeaway

Chris Washington Jr. is considered one of the top small forward prospects in the 2026 class, with his combination of size, athleticism, and developing skill set making him a highly sought-after recruit. His decision to cancel the Tennessee visit could open the door for other programs to make a stronger push for his commitment in the coming months.