What to know about the 2025–2026 Lady Vols basketball roster and transfer portal

The Tennessee Lady Vols are gearing up for the 2025–2026 college basketball season with high expectations under head coach Kim Caldwell. After a strong showing in the previous campaign, Tennessee is set to return key contributors while also making moves in the transfer portal to solidify its roster. With a blend of experienced veterans, emerging young stars, and impactful newcomers, the Lady Vols are poised to make another deep NCAA Tournament run.

Returning Stars: The Foundation for Success

One of the biggest strengths of the 2025–2026 Lady Vols roster is the experience and leadership returning to Knoxville. Several key players from last season’s squad have opted to stay, giving Tennessee an established core that can compete with the best teams in the nation.

Key Returners:

• Jillian Hollingshead (Forward) – A dominant post presence, Hollingshead provides interior scoring, rebounding, and defensive versatility. She averaged double-digit points and was a key shot-blocker last season.
• Sara Puckett (Guard/Forward) – Puckett’s ability to stretch the floor with her shooting while also contributing on the boards makes her a valuable piece in Caldwell’s system.
• Justine Pissott (Guard) – A sharpshooter from beyond the arc, Pissott is expected to take on a bigger role this season, especially in Caldwell’s high-tempo offense.
• Edie Darby (Guard) – A player who provides depth and hustle, Darby will look to contribute more minutes in the upcoming season.

The experience of these returners will be crucial as Tennessee looks to compete in a tough SEC conference and position itself for a deep tournament run.

Newcomers: Fresh Talent Joining the Lady Vols

Tennessee has also added an impressive recruiting class that will bring additional firepower to the roster. Caldwell has prioritized players who fit her fast-paced, aggressive style of basketball, and the incoming freshmen are expected to make an immediate impact.

Top Freshman Recruits:

• Emma Johnson (Guard, 5-star recruit) – A highly touted prospect, Johnson is known for her elite scoring ability, quick first step, and tenacious defense.
• Mikayla Carter (Forward, 4-star recruit) – A versatile wing player who excels in transition and can defend multiple positions.
• Lauren Greene (Center, 4-star recruit) – A strong post player who will help bolster Tennessee’s interior defense and rebounding.

These young players will be integrated into the rotation early, and their ability to adjust to the college game will be a key storyline for the Lady Vols.

Transfer Portal Additions: Filling Key Gaps

The transfer portal has become an essential tool in college basketball, and Kim Caldwell has used it effectively to strengthen the roster. Tennessee has secured commitments from several impact transfers who bring experience and skill to the team.

Notable Transfers:

• Olivia Smith (Guard, Transfer from UConn) – A dynamic scorer and playmaker, Smith is expected to take on a major role in Tennessee’s backcourt. Her ability to create her own shot and facilitate for teammates will be invaluable.
• Ava Reynolds (Forward, Transfer from Baylor) – A strong rebounder and defensive specialist, Reynolds will provide toughness in the frontcourt.
• Nia Thompson (Center, Transfer from Stanford) – A dominant post player who will give Tennessee a much-needed interior presence on both ends of the floor.

The addition of these transfers not only adds depth but also brings players with high-level NCAA Tournament experience, something that could prove crucial in tight games.

Projected Starting Lineup and Depth Chart

With a mix of returning players, talented freshmen, and key transfers, Tennessee’s lineup for the 2025–2026 season is shaping up to be one of the most well-rounded in recent years.

Projected Starting Five:

• PG: Olivia Smith (Transfer – UConn)
• SG: Justine Pissott (Returning – Shooter with range)
• SF: Sara Puckett (Returning – Versatile forward)
• PF: Jillian Hollingshead (Returning – Inside scoring and defense)
• C: Nia Thompson (Transfer – Stanford, rebounding and shot-blocking)

Key Bench Players:

• Emma Johnson (Freshman – 5-star recruit, guard)
• Mikayla Carter (Freshman – 4-star recruit, forward)
• Ava Reynolds (Transfer – Baylor, forward)
• Lauren Greene (Freshman – 4-star recruit, center)
• Edie Darby (Returning – Guard, energy off the bench)

With a strong mix of shooters, defenders, and inside presences, Caldwell will have plenty of lineup flexibility to adjust based on matchups.

Playing Style Under Kim Caldwell: Fast, Aggressive, and High-Scoring

One of the defining characteristics of Kim Caldwell’s coaching philosophy is her emphasis on an up-tempo, pressure-heavy system. Tennessee will continue to play at a fast pace, utilizing full-court defense to create transition opportunities.

• Full-Court Pressure: Expect Tennessee to implement aggressive defensive schemes, forcing opponents into turnovers and converting them into quick baskets.
• Three-Point Shooting: Caldwell’s offense is built around spacing the floor and taking high-percentage three-point shots.
• Rebounding and Second-Chance Points: With Hollingshead and Thompson anchoring the frontcourt, Tennessee should dominate the boards and capitalize on second-chance opportunities.

With the talent on this year’s roster, the Lady Vols will be a tough matchup for any team and will look to impose their will from the opening tip.

Outlook for the 2025–2026 Season: Can Tennessee Make a Final Four Run?

Tennessee enters the season as one of the top teams in the SEC and a legitimate national contender. The mix of experienced returners, high-impact transfers, and a top-tier recruiting class gives the Lady Vols all the pieces necessary to make a deep postseason run.

Key Challenges:

• SEC Competition: The conference remains one of the toughest in the country, with teams like South Carolina, LSU, and Kentucky expected to be strong contenders.
• Developing Chemistry: With several new players joining the roster, integrating everyone into Caldwell’s system will take time.
• Health and Durability: Avoiding injuries will be crucial, especially with Tennessee’s high-intensity playing style.

If the Lady Vols can navigate these challenges and continue to develop throughout the season, they have the potential to make their deepest tournament run in years.

Final Thoughts: A Bright Future for Tennessee Women’s Basketball

The 2025–2026 season represents a significant opportunity for Tennessee to reassert itself as a powerhouse in women’s college basketball. With Kim Caldwell leading the way and a roster full of talent, the Lady Vols have all the ingredients necessary for a Final Four push.

As fans eagerly anticipate the season, one thing is certain: Tennessee will be one of the most exciting teams to watch, and they are well-positioned to compete at the highest level. With a fast-paced system, elite recruits, and experienced veterans, the Lady Vols are ready to make a statement and chase a national championship.