The Influence of a Hibachi Dinner in Convincing Jasmine Powell to Choose Lady Vols Basketball

Jasmine Powell confessed to feeling apprehensive when she entered the transfer portal. With two years of eligibility left, Powell made the decision to depart from Minnesota in the hopes of embarking on a fresh start and finding a new environment that would cater to both her athletic and personal needs.

Assistant coach Joy McCorvey from Tennessee spotted Powell in the transfer portal and arranged for her to visit Knoxville to explore what the Lady Vols program had to offer. It was during this visit that Powell shared a hibachi dinner with her prospective teammates.

During the dinner, Powell quickly bonded with the Lady Vols present, fostering laughter and an immediate sense of chemistry among them, as recounted by those who were there.

DISCUSS IT ON THE ROCKY TOP FORUM

Upon returning home to evaluate potential landing spots, what resonated with Jasmine Powell was the evening she spent with the Tennessee roster members.

“We were just laughing non-stop,” Powell recalled. “We shared jokes, and I felt like I could truly be myself. That moment stuck with me when I returned home. I could envision myself there, enjoying every moment with these girls. That was a crucial aspect for me. I absolutely loved it.”

Tamari Key and Kaiya Wynn were among the Lady Vols present at the hibachi dinner, and they remember Powell fitting in seamlessly with the team.

However, it wasn’t just about humor; they quickly discerned that Powell sought a competitive environment where winning was paramount.

“My initial impression of her off the court is that she’s incredibly funny,” Key remarked. “She’s one of the funniest people on the team. Throughout her visit, we shared jokes right from the moment she stepped on campus. But beyond that, she’s a fierce competitor. She displayed great offensive instincts, and you know she’s dependable on both ends of the court.”

This equilibrium is what made Tennessee stand out to Powell. Finding a team that aligns socially and athletically is a rare find.

Powell wasn’t certain if such a fit was attainable. Despite her reservations, that’s precisely what the Lady Vols offered: a program steeped in tradition that also met her off-court criteria.

“I never imagined I’d find it when I entered the portal,” Powell admitted. “Entering the portal is daunting. You’re unsure of whom you’ll encounter, who’s being truthful, you’re in the dark. But then you go on these visits, witness their on-court intensity every possession, and off the court, they’re humorous, carefree, they can truly be themselves.”

While the dinner during the visit may have been the highlight, Powell also recalls witnessing the program’s legacy. With eight National Championships and a plethora of SEC titles and Final Four appearances, Tennessee’s basketball prowess is undeniable.

Seeing the remnants of college basketball’s pinnacle can be daunting. While some programs strive to reach such heights, the Lady Vols arguably boast the richest history in the sport.

While this might deter some, it appealed to Powell. The legacy impressed upon her the program’s ability to compete at the highest level.

“It’s intimidating, but in a good way,” Powell reflected. “During the tour, you realize this is the real deal, they’ve achieved this before, they have a coaching staff capable of guiding you, and players who aspire to reach those heights. It’s truly special.”

Competing for a National Championship was a primary factor Powell sought in the portal. When she met head coach Kellie Harper, she got straight to the point: she aimed to contribute to a ninth ring for the Lady Vols.

Now in her second NCAA Tournament run with Tennessee, Powell, in her final year of eligibility, has her sights set beyond the team’s Sweet 16 appearance from the previous season.

As the 6-seed Lady Vols secured a victory against 11-seed Green Bay, they now face 3-seed NC State for a spot in the Sweet 16.

Having missed out on the big dance during her time with the Golden Gophers, Powell brings experience to these high-pressure situations. Comfortable as the team’s point guard, she understands the importance of taking things one game at a time.

In previous seasons, she found herself getting distracted. Now, in her final season, she is relishing every moment.