As the Tennessee Lady Volunteers gear up for their NCAA Tournament opener against the University of South Florida (USF), Head Coach Kim Caldwell has been vocal about the team’s preparation and mindset. In her inaugural year at Tennessee, Caldwell has led the Lady Vols to a 5-seed, setting the stage for a compelling first-round matchup against the 12-seed USF Bulls in Columbus, Ohio.
Reflecting on the team’s reaction to their tournament seeding, Caldwell described the atmosphere as “fun” and acknowledged the challenge ahead, emphasizing the importance of focusing on their own game to represent Tennessee effectively.
The Lady Vols have recently benefited from a period of rest, which Caldwell believes was crucial. She observed that the team now appears “more crisp,” reminiscent of their performance in late December. This rejuvenation comes at a pivotal time, as they aim to bring high energy and competitiveness into the tournament.
In preparing for USF, Caldwell has identified the Bulls as an “offensive heavy” team that runs numerous sets. She stressed the necessity for the Lady Vols to enhance their half-court defense, focusing on communication and cohesive play. Caldwell noted that recent practices revealed areas needing improvement, particularly in defensive coordination.
Controlling the game’s pace is another focal point for Tennessee. Caldwell highlighted the significance of initiating their offense through defensive stops, allowing for swift transitions. She emphasized the need for unity and resilience, encouraging the team to play through mistakes collectively.
The competitive spirit in practice has been reignited, with Caldwell describing sessions filled with high energy and enthusiasm. She remarked that the team’s current demeanor reflects a shift towards selflessness and an unwavering commitment to winning, qualities she deems essential for tournament success.
Senior leadership has been pivotal in this transformation, with players like Tess Darby stepping up remarkably. Caldwell praised Darby’s vocal presence, heightened effort, and leadership, noting her desire to win not just for personal accolades but for the team’s collective success. Darby’s selflessness and dedication have resonated with her teammates, fostering a culture of mutual respect and hard work.
As the Lady Vols embark on their tournament journey, Caldwell’s insights shed light on a team that has recalibrated and is poised to compete with renewed vigor. Their preparation underscores a blend of strategic focus and an invigorated team dynamic, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting NCAA Tournament run.
