Tennessee Lady Vols Head Coach Kellie Harper Signs Four-Year Contract Extension
The University of Tennessee has officially announced a four-year contract extension for women’s basketball head coach Kellie Harper. This extension, which keeps Harper at the helm of the Lady Vols through the 2028 season, reaffirms the school’s commitment to the program’s long-term success.
Harper, a former Lady Vols point guard under legendary coach Pat Summitt, took over the program in 2019 and has since led Tennessee to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances. Her leadership has helped reestablish the Lady Vols as a competitive force in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and on the national stage.
Under her tenure, Tennessee has consistently ranked among the top teams in the SEC, with deep tournament runs and a strong recruiting pipeline. The extension comes after a season in which the Lady Vols demonstrated resilience and progress, signaling confidence in Harper’s ability to return the program to its former dominance.
“I am incredibly grateful for the continued trust and support from the University of Tennessee,” Harper said in a statement. “Coaching at my alma mater is an honor, and I remain committed to building a championship-caliber team that upholds the legacy of Lady Vols basketball.”
The four-year deal reportedly includes performance-based incentives and a competitive salary structure, though specific financial terms were not disclosed. Tennessee’s administration expressed optimism about the program’s trajectory under Harper’s leadership, citing her dedication to player development and the program’s storied tradition.
With the extension secured, Harper and her staff can now focus on recruiting, player development, and positioning the Lady Vols for sustained success in the coming years. Fans and alumni remain hopeful that this commitment will pave the way for a return to national prominence.