Tennessee’s Victory Over Mississippi State Impresses Former Lady Vols Coach Kellie Harper
In an intense SEC showdown on January 15, 2025, the Tennessee Lady Volunteers demonstrated an impressive display of talent, resilience, and leadership in their victory over the Mississippi State Bulldogs. For former Lady Vols coach Kellie Harper, who now leads the Lady Vols program, the win represented not only a crucial victory in the SEC but also a confirmation of the team’s growth and potential as they continue their pursuit of a national championship.
The victory over Mississippi State came with a lot of momentum for Tennessee, with standout performances from key players like Ruby Whitehorn, Jordan Walker, and Olivia Thompson. But it was the team’s collective effort and ability to execute their game plan with poise under pressure that truly impressed Coach Harper. As a coach who played under Pat Summitt, Tennessee’s legendary head coach, Harper has high expectations for the Lady Vols—expectations that were more than met in this game. The victory served as a perfect example of how the Lady Vols, in Harper’s third year as head coach, are evolving and maturing into a force to be reckoned with in the NCAA.
In this article, we’ll explore what stood out to Coach Kellie Harper in Tennessee’s 2025 victory over Mississippi State. We’ll examine the key moments of the game, the standout individual performances, and the lessons learned that will shape Tennessee’s future as the season progresses. Most importantly, we’ll explore how Coach Harper’s leadership is playing a pivotal role in the growth of the Lady Vols as they strive to build a program that continues the proud tradition of Lady Vols basketball.
The Game: A Test of Tennessee’s Resolve
From the outset of the game, it was clear that Mississippi State would not make it easy for Tennessee. The Bulldogs, coached by Nikki McCray-Penson, came into the game with a solid record and an aggressive defensive strategy that put pressure on the Lady Vols early. They were able to neutralize Tennessee’s fast-paced offense for much of the first half, forcing the Lady Vols to adjust.
But it was Tennessee’s ability to adapt and fight back that impressed Coach Harper. The Lady Vols trailed for much of the first half, struggling to find offensive rhythm against Mississippi State’s defense. The Bulldogs came out strong, with Mia Davis and Jenna Walker hitting crucial shots, and Tennessee was forced to play catch-up. However, what stood out was how Tennessee responded. They never panicked, instead relying on their poise, discipline, and composure to slowly claw their way back into the game.
“It was a tough battle, especially in the first half,” Harper said after the game. “Mississippi State came out with a lot of energy, and we had to adjust to that. But I was really impressed with the way our players stayed focused and didn’t let that adversity derail us. They just kept competing.”
The Lady Vols turned the tide in the second half, executing their game plan with precision. Ruby Whitehorn was particularly instrumental in turning the momentum, as she scored 14 points in the second half alone and helped spark a critical defensive push. Her performance on both ends of the floor helped Tennessee take control in the fourth quarter. But it was the collective effort of the entire team, particularly the veteran leadership of Jordan Walker and Olivia Thompson, that allowed Tennessee to close out the game with a strong finish.
Key Moments that Impressed Kellie Harper
While Tennessee’s victory over Mississippi State was a team effort, there were several key moments that stood out to Kellie Harper, moments that confirmed the team’s growth under her leadership.
- Defensive Adjustments and Composure: In the first half, Mississippi State’s aggressive defense caused Tennessee to struggle offensively. However, Coach Harper was quick to adjust, switching to a more balanced offensive attack in the second half, allowing her players to utilize their skill sets effectively. The defensive intensity displayed by the Lady Vols in the second half was equally impressive. Tennessee managed to force several key turnovers and limit Mississippi State’s scoring in the final minutes, a testament to their discipline and ability to execute Harper’s defensive strategies.
“One of the things I was most proud of was how our defense stepped up in the second half,” Harper remarked. “When the game got tight, our players were able to lock in and make some huge stops. That’s something we’ve been working on all season, and it’s great to see it pay off in a big game like this.”
- Ruby Whitehorn’s Leadership and Scoring: It would be remiss not to highlight Ruby Whitehorn’s stellar performance. The sophomore forward finished with 22 points, 12 rebounds, and 4 assists in the victory, leading the charge in the second half. Whitehorn’s confidence and leadership were on full display, and her ability to take over the game when her team needed it most was a defining moment for the Lady Vols. Coach Harper has been vocal about Whitehorn’s development as a leader, and this game exemplified why.
“Ruby has been growing into that leadership role,” Harper said. “She’s always been talented, but now she’s showing the maturity and confidence to take over games. What I love about Ruby is that she’s not afraid of the big moments. She wants the ball, she wants to lead, and she wants to make an impact. That’s what makes her so special.”
Whitehorn’s impact wasn’t just on offense—her defense was also instrumental in limiting Mississippi State’s key players. She made key stops on Mia Davis and Jenna Walker, frustrating Mississippi State’s offensive flow in crucial moments. Her overall performance was a perfect example of a player rising to the occasion when the team needed her the most.
- Jordan Walker’s Poise and Playmaking: Senior guard Jordan Walker has long been known for her ability to distribute the basketball and facilitate Tennessee’s offense. Against Mississippi State, she played an instrumental role in keeping the Lady Vols organized and focused, particularly when the game became intense. Walker finished with 12 points and 7 assists, but it was her leadership on the floor and ability to keep the offense flowing that impressed Coach Harper.
“Jordan is such a steadying presence for us,” Harper commented. “She’s the one who keeps the team calm and focused when things get tight. Her ability to distribute the basketball and make key plays has been invaluable for us this season.”
Walker’s ability to manage the game in the face of pressure speaks to her growth as a player under Coach Harper’s system. She’s become the kind of player who makes her teammates better, and her decision-making and poise on the court were crucial to Tennessee’s success in this game.
- Olivia Thompson’s Defensive Effort: While Olivia Thompson is known for her scoring, it was her defensive effort that stood out during the Mississippi State game. Thompson had several crucial defensive plays, including key steals and blocks in the final moments of the game. Her ability to contribute on both ends of the floor has been a critical part of Tennessee’s defensive identity under Harper, and her effort against Mississippi State showed why she’s become one of the Lady Vols’ most important players.
“Olivia has been outstanding on defense this season,” Harper said. “She’s really bought into the defensive system, and it shows. She’s able to affect the game in so many ways—whether it’s blocking shots, stealing the ball, or just making the hustle plays. She’s a player we can rely on in tough moments.”
What the Victory Means for Tennessee’s Season
For Kellie Harper, the victory over Mississippi State was a significant moment in the 2025 season, especially with the SEC tournament and NCAA Tournament looming. The win was a reminder of just how far the Lady Vols have come under her leadership. Since taking over the program in 2019, Harper has worked tirelessly to instill a culture of toughness, discipline, and unselfish basketball in her players. While the Lady Vols have always been a prestigious program, Harper’s vision for their future is now becoming a reality.
“This team has a lot of potential,” Harper said. “We’re still learning and growing, but I can see the pieces coming together. Our young players are gaining confidence, and our veterans are showing the leadership we need. This win over Mississippi State was a great example of that growth. We’ve still got work to do, but I’m really excited about the direction we’re headed.”
As the Lady Vols continue to play their way through the SEC schedule, this win over Mississippi State will be one of the moments they look back on as a turning point. It showed that they can face adversity, adjust, and execute under pressure. With players like Ruby Whitehorn, Jordan Walker, and Olivia Thompson leading the way, and Coach Harper’s steady hand guiding the program, Tennessee is poised to make a deep run in the postseason and continue building on the legacy of Pat Summitt.
Conclusion
Tennessee’s victory over Mississippi State in the 2025 SEC game was a statement of the Lady Vols’ growing maturity and promise as a team. For Kellie Harper, the win was a confirmation of the progress the team has made under her leadership. It showcased the development of key players like Ruby Whitehorn, Jordan Walker, and Olivia Thompson, and it demonstrated that the Lady Vols are more than capable of competing at the highest levels.
As the Lady Vols move forward into the rest of the season, the victory over Mississippi State serves as a stepping stone toward achieving their goals in the postseason. With Coach Harper at the helm and a talented group of players rising to the occasion, the future of Tennessee basketball is bright.