Tennessee basketball finished a successful trip to the Bahama’s last night as they beat Virginia Thursday night and Baylor Friday night to win the Baha Mar Championship. The Vols looked dominant for 3 halves out of the 4 they played in the island paradise with the only exception being a brutal 22-point slog in the first half against Virginia. Tennessee looked deep and athletic in the 2-game stretch and come selection Sunday back-to-back blowouts of power-4 teams will look great.

The biggest story for the team is Chaz Lanier looking like a star. Lanier scored 51 points and went 13-22 from beyond the arc during the mini tournament. That kind of production would be reminiscent of Dalton Knecht’s output last year for the Vols if he can keep it up. Even if he doesn’t quite reach Dalton levels of domination, he will still be a top option late in games for Rick Barnes this season.

Darlinstone Dubar made his return to the lineup for the Vols in the last 2 games and his skillset could be a substantial addition to this team. He can hit from beyond the arc, score inside, and be physical when he needs to be. With J.P. Estrella dealing with some injury issues right now Dubar filling that gap is necessary.

This version of Tennessee basketball looks like another solid Rick Barnes team that will easily make the NCAA tournament and win a game or two. Do they have what it takes to make a serious run? After the last few days, it’s looking more likely for sure, but best not make any sweeping conclusions before conference play tips off.