Former Tennessee QB Hendon Hooker Honored at Vols Basketball Game

Hooker received a roaring ovation from the home crowd during a second-half timeout.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Former Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker returned to Knoxville on Saturday night and was honored during the Vols' basketball game against LSU. Hooker, who played for Tennessee from 2021-2022, received a massive applause from the home crowd as he took the court during a second-half timeout. A highlight package of Hooker in his Vols uniform was also played on the video board.

Why it matters

Hendon Hooker was a dynamic playmaker for the Vols during the Josh Heupel era, leading Tennessee to key SEC victories over Alabama, Florida, and LSU. His return to Rocky Top and the warm reception he received from the fans shows the impact he had on the program and the lasting connection he has with the Tennessee community.

The details

In his two seasons as Tennessee's starting quarterback from 2021-2022, Hooker threw for 6,080 yards and 58 touchdowns. He also ran for 850 yards and 10 touchdowns. Despite tearing his ACL late in the 2022 season, Hooker was still drafted in the third round by the Detroit Lions. He spent two seasons with Detroit before signing with the Carolina Panthers' practice squad ahead of the 2025 season, and finished the year with the New York Jets.

  • Hooker played for Tennessee from 2021 to 2022.
  • Hooker was honored during the Vols' basketball game against LSU on February 15, 2026.

The players

Hendon Hooker

Former Tennessee quarterback who played for the Vols from 2021-2022, leading the team to key SEC victories. Hooker was drafted in the third round by the Detroit Lions and has since played for the Panthers and Jets.

Josh Heupel

Tennessee's head football coach during Hooker's time with the Vols.

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The takeaway

Hendon Hooker's return to Knoxville and the warm reception he received from the Tennessee faithful demonstrates the lasting impact he had on the program during his time as the Vols' starting quarterback. His dynamic play and leadership helped propel Tennessee to success in the Josh Heupel era, and his continued connection to the community shows the deep bond he forged with the school and its fans.