Lady Vols Basketball: Prediction, Selections, and Injury Updates Against South Carolina with Kim Caldwell Back
The Tennessee Lady Vols are preparing for a crucial matchup against the South Carolina Gamecocks, one of the nation’s top teams. The game, slated for January 29, 2025, will be a pivotal moment for the Lady Vols as they look to bolster their standing in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) while also marking the return of head coach Kim Caldwell. After a brief maternity leave, Coach Caldwell’s presence is a welcome boost for the team as they head into a tough contest.
The Importance of the Game
Both teams come into this game with their own set of goals and motivations. South Carolina, the No. 2 team in the nation, is looking to continue its undefeated conference streak and reinforce its dominance in the SEC. Meanwhile, the Lady Vols are determined to solidify their place in the upper ranks of the SEC standings, and a win over a powerhouse like South Carolina would significantly boost their confidence.
Tennessee enters the game with a record of 15-4, but their 3-4 SEC record has been a concern, making this game against South Carolina an even more critical matchup. A win here could not only help their conference record but also send a message to the rest of the league that the Lady Vols are back in full force. South Carolina, on the other hand, has been nearly unstoppable, boasting a 19-1 overall record and a perfect 7-0 in SEC play. The Gamecocks’ only loss of the season came early against UCLA, and since then, they have gone on a dominant run.
Kim Caldwell’s Return
Coach Kim Caldwell’s return to the bench after her maternity leave is undoubtedly the most emotional aspect of this game. Caldwell, who has been with the Lady Vols for years, has played a crucial role in the team’s success, and her leadership is invaluable, especially in such high-pressure games. While assistant coaches have filled in during her absence, having Caldwell back will undoubtedly provide the team with an emotional boost, as her presence on the sidelines has been the cornerstone of the Lady Vols’ resurgence in recent seasons.
However, it remains to be seen how much of an immediate impact Caldwell can have after such a short recovery period. She’ll have to rely on the game plan and strategies she’s set up with her coaching staff, while also managing her return to coaching after a brief break.
Key Players to Watch
Tennessee Lady Vols
- Jordan Horston – One of the most dynamic players on the team, Horston has the ability to take over a game with her scoring, playmaking, and leadership. As a senior guard, she brings a wealth of experience, and in a game like this, she will need to step up big-time, particularly in the backcourt where Tennessee’s ability to control the ball and run offense will be critical.
- Sara Puckett – Puckett has been a reliable contributor for the Lady Vols, often stepping up when needed. She has a great all-around game, and her ability to hit timely shots, especially from long range, could make a big difference against the Gamecocks’ defense. She’ll be key in spacing the floor and providing secondary scoring options.
- Rickea Jackson – A powerful forward with a versatile game, Jackson’s ability to attack the basket and crash the boards will be important in this matchup. The Gamecocks are known for their defense and rebounding, so Jackson will need to battle in the paint and potentially create second-chance opportunities for her team.
- Tamari Key – As one of the most physically dominant players in the SEC, Key’s presence in the paint will be crucial. Her shot-blocking ability and defensive prowess can disrupt South Carolina’s inside game, but she’ll also need to contribute offensively to keep the Gamecocks on their toes.
South Carolina Gamecocks
- Aliyah Boston – South Carolina’s star player and likely national Player of the Year candidate, Boston is a force on both ends of the floor. Her rebounding, shot-blocking, and scoring ability make her a matchup nightmare for Tennessee. The Lady Vols will need to double-team her in the post and hope to limit her impact on the glass.
- Zia Cooke – Another key player for the Gamecocks, Cooke’s ability to score in a variety of ways, both inside and from the perimeter, makes her a versatile threat. Tennessee’s perimeter defense will need to stay disciplined to contain her.
- Brea Beal – Beal is a defensive specialist, and her ability to lock down Tennessee’s wings will be crucial for South Carolina’s defensive strategy. If she can limit Horston and Puckett, the Gamecocks will be in a good position to secure a win.
- Kamilla Cardoso – The Brazilian center offers South Carolina another physical presence in the paint. Her size and skill in the post are vital in both the offensive and defensive gameplans. Tennessee will need to keep her off the boards and neutralize her scoring ability inside.
Injury Updates
The Lady Vols have been dealing with a significant injury that has had an impact on their depth. Kaiya Wynn, a key senior guard, is out for the season after suffering a torn Achilles tendon. Wynn’s injury has been a tough blow for the team as she was one of Tennessee’s more experienced players and an important part of their backcourt rotation. Her absence leaves a void that other players, like Horston and Puckett, will need to fill, particularly when it comes to handling the ball and initiating the offense.
For South Carolina, they are also dealing with an injury to Ashlyn Watkins, who has been sidelined for the season after suffering a torn ACL. Watkins was expected to be a key contributor for the Gamecocks, but her absence has not significantly impacted their success so far. Nonetheless, it’s a blow to their depth, especially in the frontcourt, but South Carolina has proven to be resilient, with other players stepping up in her place.
Tennessee’s Strategy for Success
To have a shot at winning this game, Tennessee will need to execute a few key strategies:
- Contain Aliyah Boston – Boston is South Carolina’s biggest threat, and Tennessee will have to throw multiple defenders at her to minimize her impact in the paint. Tamari Key’s shot-blocking ability could help disrupt her inside game, but the Lady Vols will need to keep her off the offensive boards and force her into difficult shots.
- Sharpshooting from the Perimeter – With Wynn out, the Lady Vols will need to find scoring from other sources, particularly from the perimeter. Puckett and Horston are capable of knocking down three-pointers, and Tennessee’s spacing will be key to opening up shooting lanes.
- Transition Defense – South Carolina thrives in transition, so Tennessee will need to get back on defense quickly and not give up easy fast-break points. Controlling the tempo and forcing South Carolina into half-court offense could make things more manageable.
- Balanced Offense – While Horston and Jackson will need to carry the scoring load, it will be crucial for other players like Puckett, Key, and freshman point guard Olivia Owens to contribute offensively. The Lady Vols can’t rely solely on their stars to do everything. A balanced attack will keep South Carolina’s defense honest.
Prediction
While Tennessee is certainly capable of pulling off the upset, especially with Kim Caldwell’s return bringing an emotional lift, the game will be a tough challenge. South Carolina has been nearly unbeatable this season and has depth at every position. The Gamecocks’ experience, especially in big games, will be hard to overcome.
That being said, Tennessee will fight hard, especially on their home court, and the return of Caldwell could spark a strong effort. Expect the Lady Vols to make this a competitive game, but South Carolina’s talent and depth should ultimately give them the edge.
Final Prediction: South Carolina wins 75-68.
Looking Ahead
After this game, Tennessee will need to regroup and focus on the rest of their SEC schedule. The Lady Vols will have opportunities to build momentum and climb the standings, but this game against South Carolina will serve as both a measuring stick and a learning experience. With Caldwell back at the helm, the Lady Vols are ready for the challenges ahead.