Tennessee's Nate Ament Shines Since Loss to Kentucky

Freshman phenom has averaged 24.5 points per game in four wins since January defeat.

Feb. 6, 2026 at 7:47pm

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Tennessee freshman Nate Ament has been playing at an exceptionally high level since his team's loss to Kentucky on January 17. In the four games since that defeat, Ament has averaged 24.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game, shooting 43.5% from the field and 44.4% from three-point range.

Why it matters

Ament's recent surge has coincided with Tennessee's four-game winning streak, including big road victories over Alabama and Georgia. The 6-foot-10 wing is establishing himself as a potential NBA lottery pick with his improved play, which has lifted the Volunteers' offense to new heights.

The details

After a slow start to the season that included some single-digit scoring games, Ament has found his rhythm. In the loss to Kentucky, he scored 17 points but was limited to just 7 shot attempts. However, Tennessee head coach Rick Barnes believes Ament has since started 'seeing it different' and letting the game come to him rather than trying to force the action.

  • On January 17, Tennessee lost to Kentucky.
  • In the four games since that loss, Ament has averaged 24.5 points per game.

The players

Nate Ament

A 6-foot-10 freshman wing for the Tennessee Volunteers who is establishing himself as a potential NBA lottery pick.

Rick Barnes

The head coach of the Tennessee Volunteers, who has praised Ament's improved play and understanding of the game.

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What they’re saying

“I think he's seeing it different, I think that's the biggest thing. He's a terrific passer, good in ball screens. I think that he was anxious to score the ball, probably more so, and he's so much more than that.”

— Rick Barnes, Tennessee Head Coach

“I think one of the toughest things is when players go into the game thinking, 'I got to make shots,' as opposed to going in thinking, 'I got to play the game. I've got to do what the scout report says on both ends of the court.'”

— Rick Barnes, Tennessee Head Coach

What’s next

Kentucky and Tennessee will face off again on Saturday night in Rupp Arena, with Ament playing at an even higher level than the first matchup.

The takeaway

Nate Ament's rapid development and improved play since the loss to Kentucky has been a key factor in Tennessee's recent success. His ability to let the game come to him rather than forcing the action has allowed his natural talent and skills to shine through, positioning him as a potential NBA lottery pick.