Kim Caldwell’s press conference as the newly appointed head coach for the Tennessee Lady Vols basketball team, held in Knoxville.
Kim Caldwell made her entrance into her inaugural press conference on Tuesday, donning a light blue suit jacket reminiscent of the iconic Summitt Blue jerseys associated with Tennessee. Caldwell, well-versed in the history and legacy of the Lady Vols basketball program, required no primer on the weight of her new role as its head coach.
“I understand the significance of this position, and I am deeply honored to be here,” Caldwell expressed. “Every day, I will strive to uphold the legacy of this esteemed program.”
Her appointment was formally announced by athletic director Danny White on Sunday, marking her as only the fourth head coach in the program’s storied history—a rarity in collegiate athletics. Caldwell arrives fresh from her debut season coaching at the Division I level with Marshall, where she steered the Herd to victory in both the Sun Belt Conference regular season and tournament.
“When I say I am honored and humbled to be here – there is not a single person who has gone through this program that I could even come close to beating one-on-one. It is a remarkable program,” Caldwell remarked. “Pat Summitt changed the game of basketball, and wouldn’t she love to see where the game is now.”
Acknowledging the towering legacy of Pat Summitt, who passed away in 2016 after securing eight national titles and a staggering 1,098 career wins, Caldwell emphasized her commitment to honor Summitt’s memory through her own contributions.
“I will never be Pat Summitt – nobody can. But I will strive every day to be somebody that she would be proud of.”
The press conference, held at the Ray and Lucy Hand Digital Studio, was attended by the entire Lady Vols basketball team, underscoring the significance of the moment for the program.
White underscored the meticulousness of the coaching search process, affirming that no stone was left unturned in the pursuit of the right candidate. The focus remained steadfast on identifying someone capable of steering the Lady Vols back to championship contention.
“We’re good; we want to be great,” White declared. “As a women’s basketball program, we want to get back to competing for Southeastern Conference and national championships.”
Caldwell steps into the role following the departure of Kellie Harper, who was relieved of her duties on April 1st. Her contract, extending through March 31, 2029, ensures her annual compensation of $750,000.
Caldwell’s coaching accolades precede her, with notable achievements including being named the 2024 WBCA Rookie of the Year for her successful stint at Marshall, where she secured the Sun Belt Coach of the Year title and led the team to their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 1997. Additionally, her previous triumphs include clinching an NCAA Division II National Championship in 2022 with Glenville State, earning her recognition as the 2022 WBCA NCAA Division II National Coach of the Year. With an impressive career record of 217-31 and a flawless attendance at the NCAA Tournament, Caldwell’s appointment signals a new chapter of promise for the Lady Vols basketball program.
