In a recent display of leadership and encouragement, Tennessee Lady Volunteers’ head coach, Kim Caldwell, commended her team’s camaraderie and performance following a record-breaking game against North Carolina Central. The Lady Vols secured a decisive 139-59 victory, setting multiple records, including the most made three-pointers in a single game with 30. Guard Samara Spencer led the charge, achieving a personal best of nine three-pointers, surpassing the previous team record.
Post-game, Caldwell highlighted the team’s unity and supportive atmosphere. She noted the players’ enthusiasm in celebrating each other’s successes, emphasizing the family-like environment they’ve cultivated. “We’re comfortable around each other,” Caldwell stated. “We love each other. It’s definitely a family atmosphere, and they know it’s a safe space.”
Spencer, reflecting on her performance, credited Caldwell’s unwavering support. “Keep shooting,” Spencer recalled Caldwell advising her during challenging moments. “It’s good to have a coach who encourages you to shoot the ball even when you aren’t making them.”
Caldwell’s journey with the Lady Vols began in April 2024, when she was appointed as the fourth head coach in the program’s NCAA era. Her previous tenure at Marshall saw her leading the team to its first NCAA Tournament appearance since 1997, earning her the 2024 Maggie Dixon NCAA Division I Rookie Coach of the Year award. Under her guidance, the Lady Vols have embraced a high-octane offense and pressure defense, strategies that have already yielded significant results this season.
Beyond the court, Caldwell is navigating her inaugural season while expecting her first child. She announced her pregnancy in September 2024 and has since balanced her coaching responsibilities with impending motherhood. “I spent a really long time, I think maybe the first three months of my pregnancy, being really worried about it,” Caldwell shared. “You have to give it to God. God gave us this blessing for a reason. He’s got it. I don’t have a lot of power over it.”
The Lady Vols’ next challenge is an away game against Memphis, followed by matchups against Richmond and Tulsa at the West Palm Beach Classic. With Caldwell at the helm, the team is poised to continue its pursuit of excellence, both on and off the court.