A Bold Move by Kim Caldwell

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — In a bold move, Kim Caldwell took on the role of head coach for Tennessee nearly a year ago, setting her sights high right from the start. “My goal was to make it to the Sweet 16,” Caldwell declared, and so far, she’s well on her way to achieving it.

Embracing the Challenge

Despite her lack of experience in Division I basketball and a unique coaching style that emphasizes a fast-paced offense combined with press defense, Caldwell enthusiastically embraced the challenge. In Knoxville, expectations are sky-high, and the pressure is on to reclaim the program’s spot among elite teams.

Showcasing Performance

Now, Caldwell’s Lady Vols are showcasing their best performance of the season just as they prepare for a crucial rematch against Texas in the Sweet 16 on Saturday. The team is ready to show its resolve and determination to keep their championship dreams alive.

An Extraordinary Year

This past year has been nothing short of extraordinary for Caldwell. After being hired last April, she soon discovered she was pregnant, giving birth to her son Conor in January. Remarkably, she returned to coaching just one week postpartum. “I’m so thankful to be the head coach of this program," she said. "God clearly had a plan, and I'm just grateful to have the chance to lead these young women.

A Bittersweet Return to Birmingham

Caldwell’s return to Birmingham is a bittersweet reminder of her success—she captured a Division II national championship at Glenville State in 2022 using the same tactics many doubted would work in the Power 4 realm. Her outstanding seven-year tenure at Glenville State led to a top job at Marshall in 2023, where she achieved one of the best seasons in the program's history, catching the eyes of Tennessee athletic director Danny White. White recognized the need for a program shake-up after replacing Kellie Harper, who led the team to the Sweet 16 but had not advanced to the Elite Eight since 2016.

Belief in Caldwell's Vision

"I really believe Caldwell is the one to turn things around for us," said forward Sara Puckett. "This is my third time in the Sweet 16, and I want to go further. We trusted our new coaching staff and their vision from day one, and here we are.”

Managing Motherhood and Coaching

Caldwell’s commitment is palpable; assistant coach Angel Rizor, who has traveled with Caldwell since her Glenville State days, noted how Caldwell managed to juggle motherhood and her coaching responsibilities. "It’s a big ask, but she loves her baby and is dedicated to winning for Tennessee," Rizor emphasized.

Ups and Downs of the Season

Additionally, while the Lady Vols stumbled late in the season, they pulled off an impressive upset against Ohio State, winning 82-67 and earning a chance to face Texas again—a team they narrowly lost to earlier this year.

Aiming for Recognition

"We’ve had our ups and downs, but we want to be recognized as a Top 10 team in the country," Caldwell said. “Being in the top 8 would be amazing, and we have the chance to make that happen.”

Striving for More

However, the culture at Tennessee is about striving for more than just appearances. "We take pride in being here in the Sweet 16, but it’s just the beginning," Rizor stated firmly. "There are doubters out there, but we’re not just here to participate; we’re here to compete for a national championship."

Determination for Success

With an indomitable spirit and a fierce commitment to success, Caldwell is determined to lead the Lady Vols farther into the tournament. Will they rise to the occasion and achieve their ultimate goal? Only time will tell, but one this is for sure—Tennessee is back and ready for battle!