ROCKY TOP RELOADED: Lady Vols Strike Gold with Five-Star Guard Olivia Hamlin — Game-Changing Recruit Set to Ignite New Era in Knoxville
KNOXVILLE, TN — A seismic shift just rocked the recruiting world, and it came straight from Rocky Top. The Tennessee Lady Volunteers have officially landed five-star guard Olivia Hamlin, a dynamic playmaker widely regarded as one of the top prospects in the 2026 class. Her commitment is being hailed as a game-changing moment that could define the next era of Lady Vols basketball.
Hamlin, a 5-foot-11 guard out of Utah, chose Tennessee over powerhouses like Stanford, UConn, and South Carolina — a bold decision that instantly electrified the fan base. Known for her court vision, elite ball-handling, and scoring ability, Hamlin has already drawn comparisons to some of the game’s greatest guards. Her presence is expected to inject immediate energy and leadership into the program.
“This just feels like home,” Hamlin said during her announcement. “Tennessee has a legacy I want to be part of — not just to carry, but to elevate.”
Lady Vols head coach Kim Caldwell couldn’t hide her excitement either:
> “Olivia is a generational talent. She plays with heart, grit, and intelligence — the very DNA of Lady Vols basketball. This is a major win for our future.”
Fans took to social media in celebration, with “#WelcomeOlivia” trending across platforms. Analysts believe Hamlin’s commitment will spark a domino effect in recruiting, possibly attracting more elite talent to Knoxville.
With Hamlin on board, Tennessee is not just reloading — they’re reclaiming their powerhouse status. The next chapter of Lady Vols basketball is being written, and it begins with a star named Olivia Hamlin.
