Tennessee's Rick Barnes loses recruiting battle to Virginia for 7-footer, urgent need at center remains

After visiting Tennessee, Ibe also took a trip to Virginia, one of the Vols’ conference rivals and a key competitor in his recruitment.

“Tennessee target and four-star center Favour Ibe will visit Virginia today, per Jamie Shaw. Ibe, the No. 82 overall player in the 2026 class, visited Tennessee over the weekend, but is now set to visit the Cavaliers on Thursday as his recruitment intensifies,” Fox Sports Knoxville posted.

Virginia ultimately closed the deal, securing Ibe’s commitment.

“7-foot-1 center Favour Ibe has committed to Virginia, he told Rivals The four-star big man is the No. 82 overall recruit in the 2026 class, per Rivals. He also made visits to Tennessee, Alabama, and Villanova,” On3’s Joe Tipton posted.

This is a tough loss for Tennessee, as Ibe was one of their top remaining center targets. While the Vols still have a roster spot to address, this was a player they heavily prioritized throughout the process.

Now, Tennessee must reset its search at the center position. Ibe was viewed as a developmental piece with significant upside, but it’s possible Virginia offered a clearer path to playing time and immediate opportunity.