I am pastor in Kentucky who roots for Tennessee. This game means a whole lot to me. Sundays after are loss to Kentucky (which are few) are not pleasant.
There was mention of hearing from other schools, so it was certainly implied that he ia open to others. I think the interviewer didn't have the wherewithal to ask about any other schools specifically.
You're framing my post entirely around preseason expectations, which are not part of my thinking in answering this question. Midway through the season, this team was trending towards missing the tournament. Getting knocked down repeatedly and then making a run to Omaha is the inspiring part to me.
Depends on what you choose as your deciding factor.
2022 was more fun, but I am more proud of this 2023 team. I'd watch the '22 season every year of life, if I could, but what the '23 team overcame was inspiring.