Rocky Top Rocks On: Felix Okpara Declares His Return to Tennessee Volunteers for the 2025–26 Season
Standout center Felix Okpara has confirmed that he will return to the Tennessee Volunteers for the 2025–26 college basketball season. The Nigerian-born 7-footer had been weighing his options between entering the NBA Draft and returning to Knoxville, but ultimately chose to don the orange and white for another year. His decision instantly boosts Tennessee’s national profile and cements their place as a contender heading into the next campaign.
Okpara’s return is a major win for head coach Rick Barnes and the Volunteers’ coaching staff, who had been quietly optimistic about retaining the dominant big man. Known for his elite shot-blocking ability, defensive presence, and improving offensive skillset, Okpara became the heart of Tennessee’s frontcourt last season. He averaged 11.8 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 3.2 blocks per game, making him one of the most feared interior players in the nation.
In a statement shared via the university’s athletic department, Okpara expressed his excitement to return. “Tennessee is home,” he said. “I’m coming back to finish what we started. I believe in Coach Barnes, I believe in my teammates, and I believe we have a real shot at making history.” That kind of leadership and commitment reflects the maturity and focus that has made Okpara such a vital piece of the Volunteers’ puzzle.
The decision also underscores Tennessee’s growing reputation as a program that develops NBA-caliber talent while competing at the highest level of college basketball. Okpara’s return will give younger players time to develop under his mentorship, and his presence alone will continue to intimidate opposing offenses. Scouts had projected him as a late first-round pick, but Okpara appears focused on refining his game and potentially boosting his draft stock with another dominant season.
Vols fans responded with jubilation on social media, hailing Okpara’s return as one of the biggest offseason wins in recent memory. “Felix is family. He’s one of us,” one longtime fan posted on X (formerly Twitter). “This is our year!” With returning stars, a strong incoming freshman class, and a veteran presence like Okpara anchoring the defense, Tennessee will enter the season with both swagger and substance.
With March Madness heartbreak still fresh from the past season, the Volunteers have unfinished business. Okpara’s loyalty and belief in the team have sparked a renewed sense of urgency and determination. Rocky Top is rocking once again — and with Felix Okpara at the center of it all, the Vols’ championship dreams are very much alive.
