KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — There’s no shortage of excitement in Knoxville as the Tennessee Lady Vols gear up for the 2025–26 women’s basketball season.
Coming off a 24–10 campaign and a Sweet 16 appearance in head coach Kim Caldwell’s first year, the Lady Vols are once again in the national spotlight entering the season ranked No. 7 in ESPN’s “Way-Too-Early” Top 25.
Caldwell’s fast-paced, high-scoring system turned heads last year, and the energy around this group feels even stronger. Tennessee returns three of its top four scorers and rebounders, including Talaysia Cooper, an All-SEC Second Team and SEC All-Defensive Team selection who led the Lady Vols in both points and assists last season.
But it’s not just about who’s back — it’s also about who’s arrived. The Lady Vols landed the nation’s No. 1 transfer class, highlighted by standout additions Janiah Barker, Nya Robertson, and Jersey Wolfenbarger. They also welcomed a freshman signing group ranked among the top two nationally by major recruiting services, adding even more depth to one of the SEC’s most talented rosters.
For senior forward Zee Spearman, what stands out most isn’t just the skill level — it’s the mindset.
“I’m so excited for the season,” Spearman said. “They just have so much joy and so much — like they just wanna win. I just love seeing that they don’t wanna lose. They go to the gym every day, they’re always working, great energy.”
That combination of experience, competitiveness, and relentless effort could make Tennessee one of the most dangerous teams in the country this season — and the Lady Vols are already setting the tone in practice long before opening night on Rocky Top.