Kim Caldwell, in her inaugural season as head coach of the Tennessee Lady Volunteers, has guided the team to a No. 5 seed in the NCAA Tournament’s Birmingham Region. The Lady Vols will face the South Florida Bulls in their opening game on March 21 in Columbus, Ohio.
Reflecting on the team’s selection, Caldwell expressed enthusiasm about the matchup, acknowledging the challenge posed by South Florida’s offensive prowess. She emphasized the importance of improving their half-court defense to effectively counter the Bulls’ dynamic play. Caldwell noted that the team had not performed optimally in recent practices, highlighting the need for enhanced defensive coordination.
Addressing the team’s performance leading up to the tournament, Caldwell recognized the necessity of rest following the SEC Tournament. She observed that the players appeared more refreshed and sharper, reminiscent of their form from late December.
Caldwell also shared a personal moment, revealing that her son had met the team during the SEC Tournament. She described the experience as special, especially considering her initial time away from the team during her pregnancy. The players’ positive reception underscored the unity and support within the Lady Vols family.
Looking ahead, Caldwell emphasized the team’s focus on the immediate task at hand: securing a victory against South Florida. She acknowledged that advancing requires winning each game, underscoring the singular focus on their opening matchup.
Under Caldwell’s leadership, the Lady Vols have demonstrated resilience and adaptability, navigating challenges both on and off the court. Her balanced approach to coaching and personal life has resonated with the team, fostering a supportive and determined environment as they embark on their NCAA Tournament journey.
For more insights into Coach Caldwell’s perspective, you can watch her media session from March 17, 2025:
