Vols men’s basketball coach Rick Barnes was a guest on The First Quarter this morning with Heather Harrington and Tyler Ivens.

Coach Barnes joined the show from the legendary Long’s Drug Store in Knoxville.

The team is getting ready to embark on a trip to Europe with tours, practices and three games scheduled.

Barnes on the European Trip
“It’s an educational experience because some of them are going to end up living in some foreign countries because they want to play basketball and not all of them are going to make it to the NBA. There’s opportunities in a lot of different countries. It’s going to be a great experience. I love to travel. I really do. I love going over to Europe. I like going anywhere.”

Barnes on a desired Tennessee/Texas SEC/Big 12 Challenge
“They actually wanted us to do that this year. If they would come here I’m all good with it. If they’re willing to let Texas come to Knoxville because the last time Texas came to Knoxville, Tennessee won.”

Listen to that entire interesting interview with Coach Barnes where they also talk about the team, Yves Pons getting to campus, the lack of respect for the SEC in hoops, non-conference scheduling, roasted nuts, breakfast and much more.