Former Vol JaJuan Smith and Catholic High School (Knoxville, Tennessee) won in the first-round of the TSSAA Division II-AA Tournament on Wednesday.
Catholic (16-13) defeated Christ Presbyterian Academy (Nashville, Tennessee), 81-73, in Knoxville.
Smith is Catholic’s interim head coach while first-year head coach Gabe Blair is on a leave of absence.
Christ Presbyterian Academy (7-18) led, 40-36, at halftime.
“I always preach that basketball is a game of runs,” Smith said. “I knew we would make our run. We never lost focus.
“We want the other team to make their run early. I told the guys that the (regular) season is over, and we already know what to do, and tonight, I feel like we really grew up.”
Smith played for the Vols from 2004-08. He appeared in 126 games at Tennessee, averaging 11 points, 3.2 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 1.5 steals per game.
Smith was named to the SEC’s All-Defensive team during his senior season and helped the Vols advance to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament in 2008.
Catholic will next play in Saturday’s state quarterfinals at Webb School in Knoxville.
“They’re a good team and they won our conference,” Smith said. “It will be a great game and a great atmosphere and we’re looking forward to playing them again.”
