Lady Vols Ranked Strongly After Kim Caldwell’s First Season at the Helm
In her debut season as the head coach of the Tennessee Lady Volunteers, Kim Caldwell has already made a significant impact, guiding the team to impressive performances and earning national recognition. After a successful campaign that saw the Lady Vols finish with a 24-10 overall record and make a Sweet 16 appearance in the NCAA Tournament, Tennessee reasserted itself as one of the top teams in women’s college basketball.
The Lady Vols made their return to the Associated Press (AP) Top 25 Polls for the first time in over a year, debuting at No. 19 in early December 2024. This marked a significant milestone in Caldwell’s first season, as she led the team to an undefeated 7-0 start, including key victories over ranked opponents such as Florida State and Iowa.
By mid-December, the Lady Vols climbed to No. 18 in the AP Poll, following a dominant 139-59 win over North Carolina Central—a performance that not only set a program record but also set a new Southeastern Conference (SEC) record for points scored in a single game. The team’s dynamic offense and balanced defense became key highlights of their resurgence under Caldwell’s leadership.
Throughout the season, the Lady Vols continued to maintain a strong ranking. By February 2025, they held steady at No. 15 in the AP Poll, following victories over SEC rivals Auburn and Ole Miss. These consistent performances throughout the season demonstrated the effectiveness of Caldwell’s coaching and her ability to get the best out of her players.
The Lady Vols’ rise in the rankings reflects not only their talent and resilience but also the strategic adjustments and leadership of Kim Caldwell. Known for her discipline and player development, Caldwell brought a fresh perspective to the program, and her leadership has brought the Lady Vols back into national prominence.
As the Lady Vols prepare for the next season, Caldwell’s first-year success has set the stage for continued growth and higher expectations. With the foundation laid in her inaugural year, Tennessee is poised to remain a force in the college basketball landscape, with a renewed sense of purpose and optimism heading into future seasons.
