Tennessee basketball's Josiah-Jordan James appears in early 2020 NBA Draft rankings

Tennessee basketball just concluded one of the best NBA Drafts in school history.

And it could have a good one again next year.

Freshman guard Josiah-Jordan James was ranked No. 19 in Sports Illustrated's early 2020 NBA Draft rankings.

"James is an (sic) big ball-handler and all-around contributor with obvious pro potential," SI's Jeremy Woo wrote. "He may have already maxed out a bit physically, and the next step will be harnessing those tools better on both ends. His size, strength and passing feel are all impressive, but he’s not a terrific outside shooter, and his overall consistency levels can improve. James is a grab-and-go threat who thrives facilitating transition play. He’ll be pushed more skill-wise playing in the SEC, and if he does take a big step forward, the lottery should be within reach. Tennessee will need a lot from him."

James is the highest-rated recruit to sign with Rick Barnes at Tennessee. He was ranked No. 21 in the 247Sports Composite.

James played in the McDonald's All-American game, the first UT signee since Tobias Harris in 2010 to play in the prestigious game.

The 6-foot-6, 200-pound point guard was named the Gatorade Player of the Year in South Carolina after averaging 29.1 points, 12.4 rebounds, 5.3 blocks and 4.9 assists per game. James started for five years at Porter-Gaud School in Charleston, S.C., and led the school to three state titles.

He arrived at Tennessee in May.

The Vols had three players drafted in the 2019 NBA Draft, setting a program record in the modern draft. Grant Williams was picked No. 22 overall by the Boston Celtics, the first first-rounder since Harris in 2011.

Admiral Schofield was picked No. 42 and will play for the Washington Wizards. Jordan Bone was picked No. 57 and will play for the Detroit Pistons. 

Kyle Alexander reportedly will play with the Miami Heat in the summer league.