Kim Caldwell Leads Tennessee to 20-Win Milestone in First Season
No. 13 Tennessee (20-6, 7-6 SEC) reached an impressive milestone on Thursday, earning its 48th all-time 20-win season in women’s basketball. Under the guidance of first-year head coach Kim Caldwell, the Lady Vols secured an 88-80 victory over No. 19 Alabama (21-6, 8-5 SEC) in a pivotal SEC matchup at the Food City Center.
The win solidified Caldwell’s status as a transformational leader, seamlessly continuing her tradition of excellence. “Alabama is a really good team, again, kind of the same story as the last time we were up here,” Caldwell remarked postgame. “Wish we could have finished it a little bit better, but anytime you can win in this league against the top-ranked opponent, you’ll take it.”
Caldwell began her head coaching career in 2016 at Glenville State, a Division II program. In seven years with the Pioneers, she delivered six 20-win seasons, including a 2021-22 NCAA Division II national championship campaign. Her track record made her a standout candidate for Tennessee’s storied program.
After a successful one-year stint at Marshall, where she guided the Thundering Herd to a 26-7 record and an NCAA Division I tournament berth in 2023-24, Caldwell transitioned to Tennessee. Now in her first season with the Lady Vols, she continues her pattern of excellence.
Caldwell’s career boasts eight 20-win seasons in nine years as a head coach. The only exception was the pandemic-affected 2020-21 season, where Glenville State’s schedule was limited to 16 games.
Kim Caldwell’s Career Head Coaching Record
- 2016-17 (Glenville State): 24–6, NCAA Division II first round
- 2017-18 (Glenville State): 31-2, NCAA Division II second round
- 2018-19 (Glenville State): 30-3, NCAA Division II second round
- 2019-20 (Glenville State): 26-5, Postseason canceled
- 2020-21 (Glenville State): 12-4, NCAA Division II first round
- 2021-22 (Glenville State): 35-1, NCAA Division II national champions
- 2022-23 (Glenville State): 33-3, NCAA Division II Final Four
- 2023-24 (Marshall): 26-7, NCAA Division I first round
- 2024-25 (Tennessee): 20-6, Postseason TBD
The Lady Vols’ win against Alabama was crucial in the competitive SEC, showcasing Caldwell’s ability to thrive against top-ranked opponents. As Tennessee eyes a strong postseason run, Caldwell’s leadership and her players’ performances signal a bright future for the program.
