Kim Caldwell’s Tennessee Lady Vols basketball roster for 2025–2026, including players from the transfer portal

Tennessee Lady Vols Basketball Roster for the 2025-26 Season: A Fresh Start Under Kim Caldwell with Key Transfers

The 2025-26 season promises to be a defining year for the Tennessee Lady Vols basketball program under head coach Kim Caldwell. After a strong but still-building performance in recent years, Caldwell’s ability to recruit talent and develop players will be crucial as the Lady Vols aim to compete at the highest levels in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and nationally. As part of the team’s transition, Tennessee’s roster has undergone significant changes, bolstered by key additions from the transfer portal. These transfers, combined with returning players and fresh talent, have set the stage for a competitive season that could see the Lady Vols make a serious run for both SEC and NCAA titles.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the 2025-26 Tennessee Lady Vols basketball roster, highlighting the key returners, the exciting new transfers, and what each player brings to the table. As Caldwell looks to build on the progress made in her earlier years with the team, the combination of experienced veterans and new talent positions the Lady Vols to compete at a high level and take the next step toward returning to national prominence.

Key Returning Players: Veteran Leadership and Stability

While the Lady Vols have made key additions via the transfer portal, they also benefit from the return of several key players who have the experience and leadership to guide the team through what promises to be a challenging and exciting season. These returning players will be the backbone of Tennessee’s success as they blend their experience with the infusion of new talent.

Jordan Horston – Senior Guard/Forward

Arguably the most prominent returning player for the Lady Vols, Jordan Horston is the centerpiece of Tennessee’s roster heading into the 2025-26 season. As a versatile guard/forward, Horston’s ability to contribute in virtually every facet of the game makes her a force to be reckoned with in the SEC and beyond. Her scoring, playmaking, and defensive capabilities will be crucial for Tennessee’s success. In her senior year, Horston will look to build upon her already impressive resume, which includes being named to several All-SEC teams and earning national recognition for her all-around game.

Horston’s leadership on and off the court will be indispensable as she mentors a new wave of Lady Vols players, including freshmen and transfers. Expect her to be the team’s primary offensive threat and one of the focal points of Caldwell’s system. Horston’s size, skill, and experience will make her a difficult matchup for opponents.

Tess Darby – Senior Guard

Another crucial returnee for the Lady Vols is Tess Darby, a senior guard known for her sharp shooting and perimeter defense. Darby’s ability to stretch the floor with her three-point shooting adds a dynamic element to Tennessee’s offense, and her defensive prowess on the wing will be key for the Lady Vols in matchups against high-scoring teams.

As a senior, Darby will bring valuable experience to the table, especially in tight game situations. Her ability to hit crucial shots in important moments will make her one of the team’s go-to players in high-pressure situations. Darby’s leadership and consistency will be important for maintaining the team’s offensive flow and defensive intensity.

Rae Burrell – Senior Forward

Rounding out the trio of senior leaders is Rae Burrell, a forward with both a strong inside game and the ability to stretch the floor. Burrell has been a steady contributor for the Lady Vols throughout her career and is expected to play a major role in the 2025-26 season. Burrell’s combination of size, athleticism, and versatility gives Caldwell the ability to deploy her in multiple positions, both offensively and defensively.

Burrell’s experience in SEC play, as well as her ability to score in various ways, will make her one of Tennessee’s key offensive players. Her leadership in the frontcourt will help solidify the Lady Vols’ overall rebounding and interior defense.

Jordyn Cambridge – Junior Guard

Although a relatively newer face on the team, Jordyn Cambridge has quickly become a key player for the Lady Vols. As a junior guard, Cambridge’s ability to control the pace of the game, distribute the ball, and create scoring opportunities will be vital to Tennessee’s offense. Her vision on the court allows her to set up teammates for easy baskets, while her ability to score when needed adds another weapon to the Lady Vols’ offense.

Key Transfers: Building a Strong Foundation for Success

The 2025-26 season marks a pivotal year for the Tennessee Lady Vols, as head coach Kim Caldwell has worked to bring in key transfers through the portal to help bolster the team. The transfer portal has become an integral part of college basketball, and Caldwell’s ability to land impactful players will be a big factor in the Lady Vols’ ability to compete with the top teams in the SEC and nationally.

Amaya Thomas – Graduate Transfer Guard from Auburn

One of the most notable additions to the Lady Vols’ roster is Amaya Thomas, a graduate transfer from Auburn University. Thomas, a dynamic guard known for her scoring and defensive ability, will bring a wealth of experience to the Lady Vols. During her time at Auburn, Thomas was a standout player, earning All-SEC honors and becoming one of the top scoring guards in the conference.

With the ability to shoot from the outside, drive to the basket, and defend effectively on the perimeter, Thomas will fit perfectly into Caldwell’s system. Her leadership and experience playing in the SEC will be invaluable as the Lady Vols seek to elevate their game and compete for a conference title. Thomas’ scoring ability and versatility will provide Tennessee with another offensive weapon, and her defensive prowess will help the team in high-pressure games.

Sierra Kalu – Transfer Forward from Texas Tech

Another key addition for the Lady Vols is Sierra Kalu, a forward who comes to Tennessee from Texas Tech University. Kalu has been known for her rebounding ability and physicality on both ends of the floor. As a 6’3” forward, Kalu’s presence in the post will provide Tennessee with the size and strength necessary to battle in the competitive SEC. Her ability to contribute both offensively and defensively makes her a valuable asset to the team.

Kalu’s rebounding and shot-blocking abilities will give the Lady Vols a boost in their frontcourt, particularly in controlling the glass and protecting the rim. Her addition also allows Caldwell to experiment with different lineups and defensive schemes, knowing she has a capable and versatile forward to rely on.

Taylor Sims – Transfer Guard from Mississippi State

Taylor Sims, a talented guard from Mississippi State, is another key transfer addition for the Lady Vols. Known for her scoring ability and leadership on the court, Sims has the experience to step into a starting role and contribute immediately. Throughout her time at Mississippi State, Sims demonstrated an ability to handle the ball, create her own shot, and lead her team in clutch situations.

Sims’ scoring prowess, particularly from beyond the arc, will complement the Lady Vols’ offensive attack and provide them with another shooting threat. Her experience in high-pressure situations, coupled with her ability to facilitate the offense, will make her a key player in Caldwell’s system.

Fresh Faces: New Blood to Energize the Program

In addition to the returning players and transfers, the Lady Vols have several highly-rated incoming freshmen who will look to make an immediate impact. With a strong recruiting class, Caldwell has brought in players who can contribute right away, providing the team with the depth necessary to compete in one of the toughest conferences in the nation.

Kendall Johnson – Freshman Guard

Kendall Johnson, a 5’11” guard out of North Carolina, is one of the most highly-touted freshmen in the country. Known for her ability to score from anywhere on the floor and her tenacious defense, Johnson has the potential to make an immediate impact for the Lady Vols. Her size and skillset allow her to play both the point guard and shooting guard positions, providing Caldwell with a versatile option in the backcourt.

Johnson’s ability to play with poise and confidence as a freshman will be crucial as she adjusts to the speed and intensity of college basketball. Her combination of scoring and defense will make her a valuable asset for the Lady Vols, especially in critical matchups against the SEC’s top teams.

Chloe Richardson – Freshman Forward

Chloe Richardson, a 6’4” forward out of Tennessee, is another highly anticipated addition to the Lady Vols roster. Known for her shot-blocking and rebounding ability, Richardson will give Tennessee the physical presence they need in the post. She’s an explosive athlete who has the potential to develop into one of the top forwards in the SEC.

Richardson’s ability to protect the rim and finish strong around the basket will provide Tennessee with an added layer of toughness and depth in the frontcourt. As she adapts to the college game, Richardson’s physical tools and work ethic could make her one of the team’s key contributors.

The Road Ahead: Expectations for the 2025-26 Season

With a roster that combines experienced leaders, talented transfers, and highly rated freshmen, the Tennessee Lady Vols are poised to be a formidable force in women’s college basketball for the 2025-26 season. Under Kim Caldwell’s leadership, the team will focus on improving on their solid foundation, building chemistry, and competing at the highest level of the SEC and nationally.

While Tennessee has faced challenges in recent years, the infusion of talent through the transfer portal and the development of returning players has positioned them to be a top contender. The Lady Vols will look to contend for an SEC championship, make a deep run in the NCAA tournament, and continue building on their storied legacy in women’s college basketball.

With key players like Jordan Horston, Tess Darby, and Rae Burrell leading the way, along with impactful transfers such as Amaya Thomas and Sierra Kalu, Tennessee has the pieces in place to make a serious push for a national title in the 2025-26 season. As Kim Caldwell continues to build a competitive and cohesive team, the Lady Vols’ future looks incredibly bright.