The Tennessee Lady Volunteers (Lady Vols) have been making waves in women’s college basketball this season, showcasing a blend of seasoned talent and promising newcomers. Under the leadership of first-year head coach Kim Caldwell, the team has demonstrated a high-octane offense and intense defensive pressure, setting the stage for an exciting Southeastern Conference (SEC) campaign.
Season Opener: A Dominant Debut
The Lady Vols kicked off their season with a commanding 101-53 victory over Samford on November 5, 2024. This win marked the sixth time in the program’s history that Tennessee scored over 100 points in a season opener. Junior forward Zee Spearman led the charge with a career-high 25 points, while redshirt sophomore guard Talaysia Cooper added 19 points. The team’s aggressive defense was evident, forcing 37 turnovers and converting them into 50 points. citeturn0search1
SEC Opener: Maintaining Undefeated Streak
Continuing their strong performance, the Lady Vols secured a 91-78 win against Texas A&M on January 2, 2025, in their SEC opener. This victory kept their record unblemished at 13-0. Senior guard Jewel Spear was instrumental, contributing 20 points, including six three-pointers. Despite a challenging second half, the team showcased resilience, with Spear hitting crucial shots to maintain their lead. citeturn0search0
Record-Breaking Performance: 30 Three-Pointers
In a remarkable display of shooting prowess, the Lady Vols set a new record by making 30 three-pointers in a single game against NC Central on December 14, 2024. This performance surpassed all previous records in NCAA Division I women’s and men’s basketball, the WNBA, and the NBA. Senior guard Samara Spencer led the team with nine three-pointers, setting a new school record, and finished with a career-high 33 points and 10 assists. citeturn0news13
Key Players to Watch
- Jewel Spear: A senior guard known for her sharpshooting, Spear has been a consistent offensive threat, particularly from beyond the arc.
- Zee Spearman: The junior forward has made significant contributions, including a career-high 25 points in the season opener, showcasing her scoring ability and versatility.
- Samara Spencer: As a senior guard, Spencer has been a playmaker, exemplified by her record-breaking nine three-pointers against NC Central.
Upcoming SEC Matchups
The Lady Vols are set to face several formidable opponents in the SEC, including:
- LSU Tigers: A powerhouse in women’s basketball, LSU presents a significant challenge with their depth and talent.
- South Carolina Gamecocks: Under the leadership of Coach Dawn Staley, South Carolina has been a dominant force in the SEC, known for their aggressive defense and fast-paced offense.
- Texas A&M Aggies: A team that has consistently been competitive in the SEC, Texas A&M poses a strong challenge with their disciplined play and experienced roster.
Coaching Leadership: Kim Caldwell
Kim Caldwell, in her first season as head coach, has brought a fresh energy to the Lady Vols. With a career record of 217-31 prior to joining Tennessee, Caldwell has a proven track record of success, including leading Marshall University to a 26-7 record and an NCAA Tournament berth in the 2023-24 season. Her coaching philosophy emphasizes a high-octane offense and intense defensive pressure, strategies that have been evident in the Lady Vols’ performances this season. citeturn0search2
Broadcast and Viewing Information
Fans can catch the Lady Vols in action through various platforms:
- SEC Network: Many games are broadcast on SEC Network, providing extensive coverage of the team’s SEC matchups.
- ESPN Platforms: Select games are available on ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPN+, offering additional viewing options for fans.
- SECN+: For games not broadcast on linear television, SECN+ provides streaming access, ensuring fans can follow the Lady Vols throughout the season. citeturn0search2
Season Outlook
With a perfect record and a series of impressive performances, the Lady Vols are poised to make a significant impact in the SEC this season. Their blend of experienced players and dynamic newcomers, coupled with Coach Caldwell’s leadership, sets the stage for a promising campaign. Fans can look forward to a season filled with high-energy basketball and the potential for deep postseason success.
navlistRecent Highlights in Women’s College Basketballturn0news13,turn0news12
