Michael Allen 
The Lady Vols gather in their pregame huddle before the Pat Summitt Heritage Classic against UT Martin
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In her second year, Kim Caldwell has Tennessee Lady Vols fans dreaming big after a top-ranked recruiting class, key transfers, and a strong start to the 2025–26 season.
The 2025–26 Tennessee Lady Vols entered the new season surrounded by expectations rarely seen for a coach in just her second year. But that’s the position Kim Caldwell finds herself in after a transformative offseason that saw Tennessee land the No. 2 recruiting class in the nation, reel in major transfers, and return a core group from last year’s Sweet 16 team.
Final Four chatter is no longer far-fetched on Rocky Top.
Caldwell’s second season didn’t start without turbulence, though. The Lady Vols lost key returner Ruby Whitehorn, who was dismissed after off-court issues resurfaced this fall. Still, Tennessee boasts a deep, talented rotation led by returning standout Talaysia Cooper, who paced the Vols in scoring for much of last season. Veterans Kaniya Boyd and Kaiya Wynn are back to anchor the up-tempo attack, while Zee Spearman and Alyssa Latham give Caldwell reliable post presence on both ends.
Transfer Experience Adds Firepower
Caldwell reloaded through the portal, adding three seasoned veterans: Janiah Barker (UCLA), Nya Robertson (SMU), and Jersey Wolfenbarger (LSU).
Barker, a former Big Ten Sixth Player of the Year, brings a steady scoring touch and rebounding presence, averaging 10.3 points and 6.0 boards in her career. Robertson adds outside shooting and scoring versatility, owning a career average of 16.3 points per game and 33.2% from three. Wolfenbarger’s experience — 102 games played between Arkansas and LSU — gives Tennessee leadership and depth. She flashed that potential with 18 points in the exhibition win over Columbus State.
A Historic Recruiting Class Arrives
The cornerstone of Tennessee’s future lies in Caldwell’s elite 2025 recruiting haul. Five top-60 signees headline the class, including three in the top 20:
- Mia Pauldo (No. 9) – A two-way force with elite energy and defense.
- Deniya Prawl (No. 17) – A fearless slasher who thrives attacking the rim.
- Jaida Civil (No. 20) – A dynamic playmaker built for transition offense.
- Lauren Hurst (No. 45) – A versatile guard with deep range and creativity.
- Mya Pauldo (No. 57) – A high-IQ facilitator who excels in setting up teammates.
The class gives Caldwell one of the deepest and most balanced rosters in the country.
Early Results Show Depth and Potential
Tennessee opened the season with an 80–77 loss to No. 10 NC State, a hard-fought game that came down to free throws. The Wolfpack hit 15-of-21 from the line, while the Lady Vols went just 8-of-14. Talaysia Cooper led all scorers with 23 points and 11 rebounds, while Barker added 15, Civil 13, and Mia Pauldo 10.
The Lady Vols rebounded with a 97–47 rout of ETSU, a dominant performance from start to finish. Zee Spearman (24 points) led the charge, followed by Cooper (18), Barker (15), and Pauldo (12). Tennessee’s defense suffocated ETSU, forcing 26 turnovers and holding them to 28% shooting.
In the Pat Summitt Heritage Classic, Tennessee held off UT Martin for a 72–61 victory. Robertson led with 17 points, Civil had 13, Barker 11, and Cooper added 10. Though the Vols were sloppy at times, their balance and composure down the stretch sealed the win.
The Road Ahead
It’s early, but the Lady Vols have already shown flashes of a team capable of fulfilling their lofty preseason expectations. With elite young talent, veteran leadership, and Caldwell’s high-paced system, Tennessee looks every bit like a contender — even as chemistry continues to build.
The Lady Vols return to action Thursday night at 7 p.m. ET against Belmont inside the Food City Center, with coverage on SEC Network.
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