Big Risers for the Tennessee Volunteers in the Most Recent AP Women’s Basketball Poll
The Tennessee Volunteers women’s basketball team has once again asserted its dominance on the national stage, continuing its storied legacy as one of the premier programs in collegiate women’s basketball. Under the leadership of head coach Kellie Harper, the Volunteers have been making significant strides as they aim to climb higher in the rankings and eventually capture another national championship. As the college basketball season heats up, Tennessee has been one of the biggest risers in the latest AP Women’s Basketball Poll, which is a reflection of their consistent growth, talented roster, and strategic improvements on both sides of the court.
In this article, we will take a closer look at why the Tennessee Volunteers are seeing such a rise in the rankings, what has fueled their recent success, and what it means for the program as they look to contend for the national title. With a mix of experienced players, high-potential young talent, and an elite coaching staff, Tennessee’s rise in the AP Poll is no surprise, but it’s an achievement that’s worth celebrating as they continue to build momentum.
A Resurgence of Tennessee Basketball: From Strong Start to National Contender
Historically, the Tennessee Volunteers have been one of the most successful teams in women’s college basketball, with a rich legacy that includes 8 NCAA Final Four appearances and 8 national championships under the legendary Pat Summitt. After a few years of rebuilding, Kellie Harper, a former Tennessee player and assistant coach, took the reins in 2019 and has steadily restored the program to national prominence.
In recent seasons, the Vols have gradually climbed back into the conversation as a national championship contender. With Harper’s leadership, the program has returned to its roots of tough defense, up-tempo offense, and unrelenting work ethic. The 2023-2024 season has been a breakthrough year for the Volunteers, and they’ve caught the attention of the nation with their impressive performances in both conference and non-conference play.
One of the major reasons for Tennessee’s rise in the rankings has been their consistent ability to perform in big games. Whether it’s facing SEC rivals or top-ranked teams from other conferences, the Vols have demonstrated a unique combination of talent and toughness that has propelled them to victories in marquee matchups. This has allowed them to climb the ladder in the AP Women’s Basketball Poll, inching closer to the top 10 as they seek to return to the elite tier of women’s college basketball.
Key Players Driving the Volunteers’ Success
Tennessee’s climb in the rankings wouldn’t have been possible without the stellar performances of several key players. While the team as a whole has excelled, there are a few standout individuals whose contributions have been vital to their rise in the AP Poll.
1. Rickea Jackson: A Star in the Making
The centerpiece of Tennessee’s offense has been Rickea Jackson, one of the most dynamic and versatile players in the nation. A transfer from Mississippi State, Jackson has seamlessly integrated herself into Tennessee’s system and has been nothing short of spectacular in her first season with the Vols. Standing at 6’2″, Jackson has the size, athleticism, and skill set to dominate on both ends of the floor.
Jackson has been the go-to player in clutch moments, regularly scoring in double digits and providing a spark for her teammates. Whether it’s scoring from the outside or finishing at the rim, Jackson’s offensive game is multi-dimensional, making her nearly impossible to defend. Her ability to take over games has allowed Tennessee to stay competitive in tough matchups, and she’s been a major reason for their rise in the rankings.
More than just her offensive game, Jackson is also a strong presence on the defensive end. Her length, quickness, and tenacity make her a constant threat to disrupt passing lanes and contest shots. Jackson’s two-way abilities have made her one of the best players in the SEC and a key leader for the Volunteers as they aim for another deep run in the NCAA tournament.
2. Jordan Horston: Veteran Leadership and Versatility
Another crucial player for Tennessee’s success has been Jordan Horston, a senior guard/forward who has been a consistent force for the Vols for several years. Horston is one of the most experienced players on the roster, and her leadership both on and off the court has been instrumental in Tennessee’s rise.
Horston’s skill set is a perfect complement to Jackson’s. While Jackson is a dynamic scorer, Horston is an all-around player who excels in virtually every aspect of the game. She is a gifted passer, often facilitating the offense and creating opportunities for her teammates. Her vision and basketball IQ allow her to make smart decisions with the ball and keep the offense flowing smoothly.
Defensively, Horston is just as impactful. She uses her size and quickness to guard multiple positions, making her a valuable asset for Tennessee’s defensive schemes. Horston’s leadership and steady play have helped anchor the team through tough stretches, and her ability to contribute in so many different ways makes her one of the most valuable players in the SEC.
3. Tamari Key: Dominating in the Paint
No conversation about Tennessee’s rise in the rankings is complete without mentioning Tamari Key, the 6’6” center who has been a force in the paint on both ends of the floor. Key’s presence in the post has been a significant factor in the Vols’ success, especially in their defensive schemes. As one of the tallest players in women’s college basketball, Key is an elite shot-blocker, and her size and strength allow her to control the boards and protect the rim with ease.
Offensively, Key is a reliable post scorer who can finish strong around the basket. While she may not have the same offensive versatility as Jackson or Horston, Key’s dominance in the low post makes her an important offensive option. Her ability to draw defenders and create open looks for her teammates is crucial to Tennessee’s overall offensive attack.
Key’s presence also allows the Vols to play more aggressive, physical defense, knowing they have a rim protector who can clean up mistakes and alter opponents’ shots. As Tennessee continues to rise in the rankings, Key’s ability to impose her will in the paint will be a key factor in their continued success.
Team Strengths: Why Tennessee is Rising in the Rankings
While individual talent plays a huge role in Tennessee’s rise, the Vols’ team strengths are what really set them apart from other programs. The coaching staff has done an excellent job of instilling a system that maximizes each player’s strengths while also emphasizing the importance of chemistry and unselfishness on the court.
1. Strong Defense and Rebounding
Tennessee’s defense has been one of the key reasons for their recent success. The Vols are known for their physicality and intensity on the defensive end, and this is reflected in their ability to stifle opponents’ offenses. Tennessee has consistently been one of the best teams in the SEC when it comes to forcing turnovers and limiting scoring opportunities.
Additionally, Tennessee’s ability to rebound, especially on the offensive glass, has given them second-chance opportunities that have proven to be game-changers. The combination of Tamari Key’s size, Jordan Horston’s versatility, and Rickea Jackson’s tenacity has allowed the Vols to dominate the boards, often giving them multiple possessions per trip down the floor.
2. Efficient Offense and Scoring Depth
While defense is often the hallmark of Tennessee’s game, the Vols have also proven they can score with the best of them. With Rickea Jackson and Jordan Horston leading the charge offensively, Tennessee has a potent scoring attack that can compete with any team in the nation. Their ability to shoot from the outside, penetrate to the rim, and crash the boards for easy putbacks makes them a difficult team to defend.
What’s even more impressive is Tennessee’s scoring depth. While Jackson and Horston are the focal points of the offense, the Vols have several other players who can step up and contribute when needed. This balance allows Tennessee to remain dangerous even when key players are on the bench or facing tough matchups. The ability to have multiple scoring options gives Tennessee the flexibility to adjust to different situations and strategies as the game unfolds.
3. Elite Coaching and Player Development
A significant reason for Tennessee’s rise in the rankings is the leadership of Kellie Harper. As a former player at Tennessee and an experienced coach, Harper knows what it takes to succeed in the SEC and at the national level. She has done an excellent job of developing her players, creating an environment of trust, discipline, and accountability that has led to the team’s rise.
Harper’s coaching staff has been instrumental in refining the Vols’ defensive schemes, offensive sets, and overall team strategy. With a deep understanding of the game, the staff has been able to make in-game adjustments and set the team up for success, especially in high-pressure situations.
The Road Ahead: Defending the Ranking and Looking to the Future
As the season progresses, Tennessee will look to continue their rise in the AP Women’s Basketball Poll and defend their position as one of the top teams in the nation. With a mix of experienced veterans and talented newcomers, the Vols are poised for continued success as they enter the heart of SEC play and prepare for the NCAA Tournament.
Tennessee’s recent rise in the rankings is a reflection of the hard work and dedication from both the players and the coaching staff. With a deep roster, strong team chemistry, and a clear identity on both ends of the floor, the Vols are a team to watch in the coming months. As they continue to climb the ladder in the **AP
Women’s Basketball Poll**, the Tennessee Volunteers are proving they are more than just a team with a proud history—they are a program with a bright future and a strong chance to contend for a national title once again.
