Three Tennessee Volunteers Earn NBA Combine Invites as Mock Drafts Project Ament in Top 10

Context The NBA draft combine, held in Chicago from May 10 to May 17, brings together over 70 prospects for measurements, interviews, and on‑court workouts. Participants undergo athletic testing, skill drills, and meetings with franchise representatives to improve their draft stock. Tennessee’s three invitees join a national field that includes players from conferences across the country.

Key Facts ESPN’s April 28 two‑round mock draft places Nate Ament at No. 10, Ja'Kobi Gillespie at No. 57, and Felix Okpara as the final pick. Gillespie averaged 18.4 points per game during his sole season with the Volunteers. Ament contributed 16.7 points and 6.3 rebounds per game, while Okpara averaged 6.3 rebounds and earned All‑SEC defensive honors.

What It Means The combine invites give each player an opportunity to showcase athleticism and skill to NBA scouts. A strong performance could push Ament higher than the projected top‑10 slot, while Gillespie and Okpara may improve their late‑second‑round or undrafted outlook. For Tennessee, having three players in the combine highlights the program’s recent ability to develop NBA‑level talent. Watch for their combine results and subsequent team workouts, which will shape final draft projections ahead of the June 2026 NBA draft.