The 1990-1991 season was a difficult one for the Tennessee Volunteers basketball team. Under the leadership of head coach Wade Houston, the team struggled to a 12-22 overall record and a last place finish in the SEC with a conference record of 3-15. Despite the team's struggles, they were able to average 79.1 points per game, which ranked 109th in the nation out of 294 teams. However, their defense gave up an average of 82.0 points per game, which ranked 233rd in the nation. In terms of strength of schedule, the Volunteers faced a tough slate, with a SOS of 8.37, which was the 40th most difficult in the nation. Their SRS of 5.58 ranked 92nd in the nation.