CONGRATULATIONS: Tennessee Lady Volunteers head coach Kim Caldwell has been named the 2025 Naismith Women’s College Coach of the Year, a prestigious honor that recognizes her exceptional leadership and the remarkable turnaround she has orchestrated within the program.
This award places Caldwell alongside the legendary Pat Summitt as one of the few coaches in Lady Vols history to receive this distinction.
Caldwell’s journey to this accolade began in 2024 when she took the helm of the Lady Vols. Her innovative coaching style and emphasis on player development quickly revitalized the team. Under her guidance, Tennessee achieved significant victories, including an upset over No. 5 UConn and a win against No. 17 Iowa. These successes propelled the Lady Vols to a 19-6 overall record and a No. 15/13 national ranking, a notable improvement from their unranked status at the season’s start.
Beyond the Naismith Award, Caldwell’s impact has garnered widespread recognition. She was named to the Naismith Coach of the Year Watch List, highlighting her influence in collegiate basketball. Additionally, her leadership has been instrumental in re-establishing Tennessee as a formidable force in women’s college basketball.
Caldwell’s success is further underscored by her career record of 236-37 (.864) over nine seasons as a head coach. Her emphasis on a fast-paced, exciting style of play has not only led to victories but also reinvigorated the fan base, with home game attendance averaging 10,547 per game, ranking fifth nationally.
As the Lady Vols continue their ascent, Caldwell’s leadership remains a beacon of excellence, inspiring both her players and fans alike. Her recognition as the 2025 Naismith Coach of the Year is a testament to her dedication, strategic acumen, and the bright future she is shaping for Tennessee women’s basketball.
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