Ralph Scott will have to wait a little longer before becoming the first Bermudian to play NCAA Division I basketball as he is set to undergo surgery to repair an injured left knee.

Scott was preparing for the start of the season next month, but University of Tennessee coach Rick Barnes announced that he faces between six to eight months on the sidelines after the surgical procedure.

“Ralph was really looking forward to beginning his college career in a few weeks and we were excited to see him on the court competing for the Volunteers,” Barnes said.

“However, it is important he gets healthy and this surgery will help him do just that. We will be there for Ralph to support him throughout the process.

“Ralph is extremely talented and we remain enthusiastic about his bright future on Rocky Top.”

The 6ft 8in small forward is expected to sit out a significant portion of the season, with his earliest return around March when the team will be winding down their 2026-27 campaign.

Shanay Scott, Ralph’s mother, expressed her gratitude to all those who sent messages of support as her son begins his journey to full fitness.

“We thank you in advance,” the mother said. “We appreciate your continued prayers for good health and a full recovery as well as your words of encouragement and ongoing support of Ralph over the next few months.”

Last week, Scott spoke with the UT media department and outlined his excitement about the upcoming season with his new team-mates.

“Me being a new face, it feels like everybody is just coming together,” the small forward said. “I’m enjoying meeting new people and everything, but it’s going well so far.”

In the video viewed more than 22,000 times on Instagram, the former AMG Academy student was asked about becoming the first Bermudian to play NCAA Division I basketball.

“It means a lot to me as it’s really cool being the first to do anything,” Scott said. “I’m definitely excited for the opportunity and grateful.”

Describing his style of play, the 18-year-old likened himself to a famous pocket-sized multi-tool that does everything.

“I can say I’m like a Swiss Army knife, I do a little of everything,” he said. “I can defend and I can shoot, rebound or do whatever I need to do.”

On what drew him to Tennessee, Scott mentioned Barnes as one of the reasons why he settled for the Knoxville-based institution over Purdue, Houston and Texas A & M a year ago.

“Coach Barnes for sure,” he added. “He’s a fun guy who wants the best out of everyone and then the environment. Knoxville kind of reminded me of Bermuda, all the greenery and everything, so it felt like home.”

Scott’s team-mates begin their preseason practice on September 22. Their first exhibition match is on October 15 when they host Xavier, before travelling to Duke five days later.

Barnes starts his twelfth season in charge on Rocky Top at home against Wofford on November 3.