Why Kim Caldwell called rebuilding entire Lady Vols basketball roster 'fantastic'
Lady Vols basketball coach Kim Caldwell described the complete roster rebuild after all eight returning players entered the transfer portal as 'fantastic' and 'a breath of fresh air,' emphasizing the team's new players' hunger and mindset. She and her staff quickly assembled a new roster of 14 players, including 12 transfers, over three intense weeks. Caldwell highlighted the importance of character, work ethic, and resilience in selecting new team members. Tennessee's athletic director praised her leadership and adaptability during the transition.
- ▪All eight returning Lady Vols players entered the transfer portal after the team's first-round NCAA Tournament exit.
- ▪Kim Caldwell and her staff rebuilt the roster in three weeks, adding 12 transfer players and two freshmen for the 2026-27 season.
- ▪Caldwell implemented a new vetting process involving extensive phone interviews to assess players' character and work ethic.
- ▪Tennessee added eight guards and four forwards from schools including Liberty, Stanford, Georgia, and Texas A&M.
- ▪Athletic director Danny White commended Caldwell for her leadership and strategic roster management during the rebuilding process.
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