Tennessee men’s basketball hit the practice floor inside Pratt Pavilion Thursday, just five days away from the season opener against Wofford at Food City Center. The Vols are coming along, and a lot of time was spent on defensive reps. One point of emphasis was playing through screens. “Good guards don’t get screened,” was a phrase I heard loud and clear.

Defense is the biggest focus for anyone in orange right now other than rebounding, and the preseason has caught the attention of Rick Barnes’ team. The effort is there, and improvements are being made. Everyone was full go in Thursday's practice, and nobody looked hurt. Barnes said everyone was good to go. So Tuesday night, a fully healthy team is set to hit the floor.

Tyler Lundblade’s return looks to be a welcome sight. Watching him move and shoot efficiently from anywhere on the floor was my biggest takeaway of the day. Lundblade can score from all levels, and he is also an emerging leader on the floor.…