Former Tennessee Basketball Star Kennedy Chandler Shines in NBA Debut

Chandler scores career-high 19 points off the bench in first game with Utah Jazz

Mar. 22, 2026 at 2:42pm

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Former Tennessee basketball star Kennedy Chandler made the most of his NBA debut with the Utah Jazz, scoring a career-high 19 points off the bench in a loss to the Philadelphia 76ers. Chandler, who played just one season with the Volunteers before turning pro, impressed with his scoring, rebounding, and playmaking in 37 minutes of action.

Why it matters

Chandler's strong debut is a positive sign for the young point guard as he looks to establish himself in the NBA after being a second-round draft pick of the Memphis Grizzlies in 2022. His performance could earn him more playing time and opportunities with the Jazz as they evaluate him on a 10-day contract.

The details

Chandler shot 5-for-13 from the field and 2-for-4 from three-point range, adding 5 rebounds, 4 assists, and 1 steal. Jazz head coach Will Hardy praised Chandler's decision-making and ability to handle the pressure of his first NBA game in some time.

  • Chandler began his 10-day contract with the Utah Jazz on Saturday, March 22, 2026.
  • By halftime, Chandler had already scored a career-high 13 points.

The players

Kennedy Chandler

A former five-star recruit and one-and-done star at the University of Tennessee, Chandler was drafted 38th overall by the Memphis Grizzlies in 2022 and is now on a 10-day contract with the Utah Jazz.

Will Hardy

The head coach of the Utah Jazz, who praised Chandler's performance and decision-making in his NBA debut.

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What they’re saying

“He scored 19 points, but I thought he made a lot of good decisions... he moved the ball great. He's got a good feel for timing. I thought he handled himself great... it's not easy to do what he just did.”

— Will Hardy, Head Coach, Utah Jazz

What’s next

The Jazz will evaluate Chandler's performance during his 10-day contract and decide whether to sign him for the remainder of the season.

The takeaway

Chandler's impressive NBA debut, coming after just one season at Tennessee, shows the young point guard's potential to carve out a role in the league. His ability to contribute immediately off the bench is a positive sign for his future prospects.