Kim Caldwell’s Tennessee Roster Hit Hard by Transfers After Challenging Season

Emerson Raymont

Published: April 8, 2026 2:33 PM ET

Kim Caldwell’s Tennessee Roster Hit Hard by Transfers After Challenging Season

After a challenging season, Tennessee’s women’s basketball team faces significant upheaval. The program, once a powerhouse under legendary coach Pat Summitt, is now struggling to maintain a competitive roster. Under head coach Kim Caldwell, who is in her second season, the Lady Vols are in a precarious situation.

Significant Roster Changes Post-Season

The fallout from a disappointing campaign is severe. All eight players eligible to return have entered the transfer portal. This occurred promptly following the team’s early exit in the NCAA Tournament, where they were eliminated as the No. 10 seed by NC State on March 20, 2026. Additionally, incoming forward Oliviyah Edwards, a top recruit ranked No. 2 for the class of 2026 by ESPN, has decommitted.

Departures and Commitments

Several key players are leaving the program:

Seniors Janiah Barker, Zee Spearman, Nya Robertson, and Jersey Wolfenbarger have completed their eligibility.
The Pauldo twins, Mia and Mya, have announced their intention to transfer.
Junior Alyssa Latham is heading to Virginia Tech.
Talaysia Cooper, who averaged 16 points per game, has also entered the portal.

Currently, the only player committed for next season is incoming freshman Gabby Minus, who is ranked No. 62 by ESPN.

Head Coach Kim Caldwell’s Performance

Kim Caldwell, 37, experienced a tumultuous season that began with high hopes. The Lady Vols had a promising 24-10 record the previous year and reached the Sweet 16. However, the team faltered down the stretch, losing their final eight games. Caldwell’s comments after a blowout loss to South Carolina on February 8 raised eyebrows, as she stated her team “had a lot of quit in us.”

Leadership and Future Prospects

Tennessee hired Caldwell in 2024, following her success at Marshall, where she led the team to its first NCAA Tournament appearance since 1997. Caldwell currently earns $1 million annually with a $4 million buyout, according to The Athletic. She replaced Kellie Harper, who was dismissed after failing to advance beyond the Sweet 16 in her five seasons.

Notably, Tennessee has not reached the Elite Eight in the last decade and last claimed the SEC regular-season title in 2015. Their most recent national championship was secured in 2008. The road ahead is steep for Caldwell as she aims to restore the Lady Vols to their former glory amidst these significant roster shifts.