Chris is really a special young man. They just don't come along like him very often and it's nice to know that so many people in the state are proud of him even though he's playing at Tennessee.

Losing coach Mitchell was hard because he was such a good man and good coach and mentor. But coach Hill hasn't lost a beat. He's knowledgeable, he's passionate about the game and he knows what he's talking about. He wants us to be better. We didn't lose anything there. As far as the scheme, it's taken some getting used to ? that happens any time ? but we're learning it quickly. I think it will be a formidable defense when we learn it.

We came from hoping to win to expecting to win, and hopefully, down the road, we know we're going to win. Expecting to win is not bad, but to know you're going to win is the place to be.

I got to make eye contact with him and give him a hug after the game, but that has been about it during basketball.

Remember this is a guy that played four years of high school football and lived in the weight room. If a guy is really dedicated, he can find the gym time and still do both sports, in addition to doing a great job in the classroom. It is also important to remember he has wonderful parents who have supported him and held him accountable for his class work and character.

Both. For whatever reason, he was underestimated.. He has been on a mission to improve. He felt strongly about never having another season that didn't meet his standards like he did last year. He took his work ethic to another level, which is saying a lot because he has always worked hard.