Lady Vols Basketball Welcomes Back Kim Caldwell with All-New Team
In a complete overhaul, the Lady Vols basketball team is set for a fresh start as head coach Kim Caldwell takes the helm. Following a disappointing end to last season, which saw the team eliminated in the Round of 64 of the NCAA Tournament, there are no returning players from the previous roster.
Player Departures and Transfers
The announcement of player transfers began with Jaida Civil, who confirmed her decision on Monday morning. Civil is one of eight players who will not return this season. The NCAA transfer portal has officially opened, enabling these transitions.
- Fr. G Deniya Prawl
- R-So. G Kaniya Boyd
- Fr. G/F Lauren Hurst
- Fr. G Mia Pauldo
- Fr. G Mya Pauldo
- R-Jr. G Talaysia Cooper
- Fr. G Jaida Civil
Moreover, there are concerns about five-star recruit Oliviyah Edwards. She has sought a release from her commitment, leaving only four-star signee Gabby Minus as the sole confirmed player for the upcoming season.
Coaching Changes and Staff Updates
In addition to changes on the roster, Caldwell is adjusting her coaching staff. After parting ways with assistant coach Roman Tubner, the Lady Vols have welcomed Bill Ferrara to their ranks. Ferrara takes on the role after Gabe Lazo transitioned to become the head coach at UCF.
Status of Roster as of April 6
As of April 6, the roster status for the upcoming season appears uncertain, with numerous players entering the transfer portal or stepping away from the program:
| Players | Status |
|---|---|
| Fr. G Deniya Prawl | Return |
| R-So. G Kaniya Boyd | Return |
| Fr. G/F Lauren Hurst | Return |
| Fr. G Mia Pauldo | Return |
| Fr. G Mya Pauldo | Return |
| R-Jr. G Talaysia Cooper | Return |
| Fr. G Jaida Civil | Transfer |
| Sr. F Janiah Barker | Out of Eligibility |
| Sr. F Zee Spearman | Out of Eligibility |
| Sr. G Nya Robertson | Out of Eligibility |
| Sr. F Jersey Wolfenbarger | Out of Eligibility |
| Sr. G Ruby Whitehorn | Dropped out (Arizona State) |
The Lady Vols’ new journey begins with a clean slate, as Coach Caldwell steers the program through this pivotal transition period. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the team reconstructs its roster in hopes of a stronger future.
