When the Tennessee Vols play the Oklahoma Sooners in Knoxville on Wednesday night, one of their key players may be absent.
JP Estrella, a Vols forward, is said to be questionable for the game against the Sooners.
The redshirt sophomore forward is said to be suffering from a leg ailment.
The Vols would suffer a significant setback if JP Estrella were not available against the Sooners.
Tennessee should be able to defeat Oklahoma in this game, even without Estrella on the court (the Vols are a -10. 5 favorite), since the Sooners have had a lackluster season so far, going 13-12 overall and 3-9 in the SEC.
The Vols would still suffer a setback if they lost Estrella, who is a crucial presence in the paint. The Maine native is averaging 9. 7 points and 5. 2 rebounds each game.
However, what matters most in this case is Estrella’s long-term well-being. With Cade Phillips out for the season, the Vols will need him in good shape for the tournament.
Of Estrella last month, Vols head coach Rick Barnes said, “We know how much he loves being a Tennessee Volunteer. ” Although his career has had some challenging moments, the hard work he has put in may lead to something really positive for us, especially after his victory against Alabama today. We have faith in him, and we truly do.
In Thompson-Boling Arena on Wednesday night, Tennessee and Oklahoma will play their opening game at 7:00 p. m. ET.
