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The Tennessee Volunteers were an up and down team from the beginning of the season, as evidenced by their huge victories over the Vanderbilt Commodores and Auburn Tigers in the SEC tournament that were quickly followed by a disappointing loss to the LSU Tigers. Rick Barnes showed flashes of taking this team to the top this season, but can they turn this year’s limited success into something great for the future? Here are five positive takeaways from the Vols’ 2015-16 season.
5. Big Wins Against Kentucky and Vanderbilt
Credit: Joshua Lindsey-USA TODAY Sports5. Big Wins Against Kentucky and Vanderbilt
The Vols might have had a down year, but big wins over rivals Vanderbilt and Kentucky are great signs for the future of this program -- and recruiting. The wins over a ranked South Carolina team and a college basketball staple like Florida were fantastic, too.
4. Development of Rick Barnes' System
Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports4. Development of Rick Barnes' System
In one game this season, Barnes' frustration with the lack of effort from his players led to the insertion of bench players for the majority of the game. Being willing to lose in order to teach a lesson might not have been great for the team this season, but it will pay dividends in the future.
3. Development of Young Players
Credit: Joshua Lindsey-USA TODAY Sports3. Development of Young Players
Freshman Admiral Schofield, Kyle Alexander and Shembari Phillips all showed flashes of being extremely talented players down the road. Throw in a sophomore like Detrick Mostella, and this team could compete for the NIT as early as next season.
2. Rick Barnes’ Success With Limited Talent
Credit: Gunnar Rathbun-USA TODAY Sports2. Rick Barnes’ Success With Limited Talent
When Kevin Punter went down with injury, most assumed that the season was over for the Vols. Winning two games in the SEC tournament without your leading scorer is a huge monument to his coaching ability, as well as his ability to rally an inexperienced team.
1. Clear Hope For Future
Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports1. Clear Hope For Future
If there is anything that Vols’ fans need to take away from this season, it is that this program is headed in the right direction. It might not be next season or the season after that, but eventually this program is going to get where it needs to be. The surprising success of this season showed that.
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