Kim Caldwell, the head coach of the Tennessee Lady Vols women’s basketball team, is married to Justin Caldwell. Justin is a well-respected basketball coach with a growing career. He played an integral role in the basketball world before joining the staff at the University of Tennessee.
Background and Career
Justin Caldwell grew up in Mullens, West Virginia, and pursued higher education at Glenville State College, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in physical education in 2013. His passion for basketball led him to further his studies, earning a master’s degree in exercise science from California University of Pennsylvania in 2017.
Over the years, Justin has held various coaching positions at both the high school and collegiate levels. He started his coaching career as an assistant coach at Wyoming East High School in New Richmond, West Virginia, in 2012. He later moved on to coaching at Glenville State College and California University of Pennsylvania. From 2018 to 2023, Justin served as the head coach at Glenville State College, where he successfully turned around the program, improving their record from 8-21 to 17-13 in his final season.
In 2023, Justin moved to Marshall University, where he worked as an assistant coach for the men’s basketball team. In September 2024, Justin joined the University of Tennessee’s men’s basketball staff as a player development coordinator under head coach Rick Barnes. Rick Barnes expressed excitement about Justin’s addition, noting his basketball IQ and ability to help develop young talent.
Family and Personal Life
Kim and Justin Caldwell’s personal lives also reflect their dedication to one another. In January 2025, the couple welcomed their first child, a son named Conor Scott Caldwell. The middle name “Scott” was chosen to honor Kim’s late father, Scott Stephens, who passed away in 2020. Kim returned to coaching just a week after giving birth, showcasing her resilience and passion for the Lady Vols.
Their professional paths have often intersected, including their time at Marshall University. Kim was appointed as head coach of the Marshall women’s basketball team in 2023, while Justin joined the men’s basketball staff. In their first season at Marshall, both teams achieved impressive success, with Kim’s team earning a spot in the NCAA Tournament—an achievement that hadn’t been seen in the program since 1997.
Conclusion
Justin Caldwell’s coaching career, combined with his support for his wife Kim’s career, highlights a powerful partnership in the basketball world. Their shared passion for the sport and commitment to each other’s success provides a strong foundation for both their personal and professional lives. As they continue to make strides in their respective roles at the University of Tennessee, their story is one of dedication, perseverance, and mutual support.
