Without question, basketball time in Tennessee has taken on a whole new meaning this season.

A new coach, a new style of play and a lot more tallies are on the left side of the won-loss ledger. And new - or at least new found - is the support UT men's basketball is receiving.

Crowds have been packing the weekly Big Orange Tipoff Club luncheons at Calhoun's where coach Bruce Pearl received a standing ovation upon his arrival Wednesday following UT's win at Kentucky. Now, the Vols are set to head to Georgia, and expected to follow them will be some 2,000 fans.

What? UT basketball fans traveling to away games?

Pearl believes that is the next step in the progression of a program he jokingly says needs more witnesses. How can a coach wearing an orange jacket and winning at Kentucky in his first attempt not get noticed?

Producers of ESPN's Pardon The Interruption did and had Pearl on Wednesday. Refreshingly candid, Pearl recanted the story of how he ripped his shirt off in the locker room after the win at Rupp.

Pearl was trying to avoid getting that Big Orange blazer doused with liquid by the players, who in essence have helped take the top off a program that is busting out with pride.

Sonny and Cher sang, "And the beat goes on." Certainly that's a new concept for UT basketball fans, many still pinching themselves about a team fighting this time last year for respect and fighting off opponents while sitting atop the SEC standings.

Rick Russo is sports director for WVLT Volunteer TV Sports Overtime.