Bubba Wallace has a deep connection to Tennessee athletics. In 2016, the NASCAR driver participated in a football practice with Team 120, but his ties to the program go back even further. His mother, Desiree, was a track athlete at Tennessee and grew up in Knoxville.
Reflecting on that experience in 2016, Wallace expressed his enthusiasm, saying:
“This is an incredible opportunity to be here, suit up, and be part of Team 120. I’m truly grateful for this experience—it’s a special day.”
Wallace also emphasized how much Tennessee sports mean to him, stating, “It’s in my blood. Being involved in this is an amazing feeling.”
Now, Wallace is set to participate in Tennessee’s baseball game against Xavier by throwing the ceremonial first pitch.
This honor follows a milestone achievement for Wallace in NASCAR, as he and his 23XI Racing teammate, Tyler Reddick, secured the front row for the EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas.
This marked the first time their team, co-owned by NBA legend Michael Jordan and NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin, achieved a front-row lockout.
Wallace acknowledged Reddick’s expertise on road courses, explaining that Toyota drivers rely on him for guidance.
Wallace admitted he was concerned about interfering with Reddick’s lap during qualifying but praised his teammate’s skill.
“I thought I might have messed up his run,” Wallace said. “I got into Turn 1 well, but I was close to him. If the situation were reversed, I’d probably tell him to give me more space. But he’s just that good. Credit to everyone at 23XI.”
Despite qualifying second, Wallace finished the race in 20th place, though he did manage to win Stage 1. Reddick, who started from pole position, finished third behind Christopher Bell and William Byron.
The NASCAR Cup Series now heads to Phoenix Raceway for the Shriners Children’s 500 on Sunday, March 9. Fans can watch the race live on FS1, Max, MRN, and SiriusXM.
