Danny White Denies NIL Rumors Amid Tony Vitello's Tennessee Departure

Tennessee Volunteers athletic director Danny White addressed the departure of baseball coach Tony Vitello, who is leaving to manage the San Francisco Giants, firmly denying rumors that Vitello left due to dissatisfaction with NIL funds or revenue sharing favoring the women's basketball program. White clarified the revenue distribution, stating that baseball received $750,000 from the 'other' sports category and that the figures for NIL revenue sharing follow a consistent and fair structure. He praised Vitello's accomplishments in transforming the baseball program, noting a significant budget increase and new stadium plans, and emphasized that the position remains one of the top baseball coaching jobs in the country. White announced that pitching coach Frank Anderson would serve as interim head coach, describing him as a 'shepherd' to lead the team through the transition. A national search for a permanent head coach is underway, with Josh Elander among the candidates, reflecting confidence in the program's future. Throughout, White prioritized the players' well-being and sought to dispel misinformation while celebrating Vitello's unprecedented success at Tennessee.