On Tuesday, the Tennessee Vols introduced Kim Caldwell as the new head coach of the Lady Vols.
Caldwell, who is replacing Kellie Harper at Tennessee, spent the 2023-24 season as the head coach at Marshall, leading the Thundering Herd to an NCAA Tournament appearance for the first time since 1997 (it was just the second NCAA Tournament appearance in program history).
Prior to her time at Marshall, Caldwell was the head coach at Glenville State from 2016 to 2023.
Caldwell's teams are known for playing fast. This past season, Marshall averaged 85.4 points per game, which was No. 4 in the nation. Marshall also shot more three-pointers than any team in the nation, averaging just over 31 attempts per game.
During Caldwell's introductory press conference on Tuesday, she was asked whether or not her style of play will translate to the higher levels of college basketball.
The West Virginia native wasted no time answering the question, before departing the podium.
"I wouldn't be here if I didn't think we could do it here," said a confident Caldwell.
Caldwell has quite the challenge in front of her. The Lady Vols are one of the most iconic brands in all of college basketball, but the program has been down on its luck since the legendary Pat Summitt stepped down in 2012. Caldwell will attempt to return the program to relevancy on the national stage. She's been successful everywhere she's been, but she hasn't been anywhere that comes with as much pressure as coaching at Tennessee.
All of the resources that Caldwell could ever need will be at her disposal in Knoxville. As long as she stays true to herself and her system, while showing an ability to adapt when necessary, she has a chance to accomplish some special things on Rocky Top.
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