Kim Caldwell was introduced as the new head coach of the Tennessee Lady Volunteers basketball team on April 9, 2024. In her introductory press conference, she expressed deep gratitude and excitement for the opportunity to lead such a storied program.
Caldwell began by acknowledging the honor of becoming the head coach of the Lady Vols. She thanked key figures at the University of Tennessee, including Vice Chancellor/Director of Athletics Danny White and Chancellor Donde Plowman, for their belief in her. She also expressed appreciation to Marshall University and Glenville State University for their roles in her coaching journey, highlighting the support from administrators, fans, and former players at both institutions.
She paid tribute to her family, thanking her mother for unwavering support and reminiscing about her late father, who was instrumental in her coaching career. Caldwell humorously shared a conversation with her 96-year-old grandmother, who remarked, “Oh, I have a lot of friends in Knoxville, but I think they’re all dead.”
Caldwell emphasized her deep respect for the late Pat Summitt, acknowledging that while she can never be Summitt, she will strive daily to be someone Summitt would be proud of. She expressed eagerness to connect with former Lady Vols players to learn from their experiences and uphold the program’s rich tradition.
Caldwell shared her excitement about working with the current team, describing them as a great group with big personalities who are hungry to return to the top of the SEC. She outlined her vision for an exciting brand of basketball characterized by fast, up-tempo play and a relentless work ethic.
Reflecting on her journey into coaching, Caldwell credited her father, who was her high school coach, for inspiring her passion for the game. She emphasized the importance of being in a program with high expectations and a loyal fan base, stating that such an environment makes the program incredibly special.
Caldwell highlighted the need to assemble a great staff, build relationships with current players, and actively engage in recruiting efforts. She acknowledged the familiarity of this process, given her recent experience at Marshall, and expressed readiness to establish the team’s culture and make strategic additions to the roster.
Describing her coaching style, Caldwell emphasized aggressive, high-pressure defense and a fast-paced offense. She envisions playing a lot of players, granting them freedom within the system, and creating an exciting brand of basketball that will energize fans and challenge opponents in the SEC.
Caldwell noted a positive shift in recruiting dynamics, mentioning that everyone she contacts responds, which she finds encouraging. She acknowledged that while the fundamentals of recruiting remain consistent, the caliber of athletes in the SEC presents new opportunities.
In closing, Caldwell reiterated her commitment to working tirelessly to honor the legacy of the Lady Vols program and to lead it to new heights.
