Committed:Lady Vols Basketball Lands a Top-Two Recruiting Class at the University of Tennessee..

In a significant win for the Tennessee Lady Volunteers, head coach Kim Caldwell has officially announced the signing of five elite high school players, securing one of the nation’s top two recruiting classes. This monumental achievement signals a new era for the Lady Vols, a program rich in tradition and success but seeking a return to its former dominance. With Caldwell at the helm, Tennessee is making bold moves to reestablish itself as one of the premier forces in women’s college basketball.

The Five Elite Recruits

Coach Caldwell’s recruiting class includes five of the nation’s most talented high school players, each ranked among the top 100 prospects. These recruits bring a combination of skill, athleticism, and versatility that will immediately impact the Lady Vols’ roster.

Mia and Mya Pauldo (Denville, NJ) – This dynamic twin duo plays as 5-foot-6 point guards and has been a major force in high school basketball. Mia, a five-star recruit, is known for her exceptional ball-handling, court vision, and leadership on the floor. Mya, a four-star recruit, complements her sister with lockdown defense and elite shooting ability.

Deniya Prawl (Toronto, Canada) – Standing at 6-foot-2, Prawl is a versatile guard/forward with elite scoring ability and defensive presence. She is the first Canadian player to commit to the Lady Vols, showcasing Tennessee’s growing international reach in recruiting.

Jaida Civil (Vero Beach, FL) – A 6-foot guard, Civil brings versatility to Tennessee’s lineup. She can play multiple positions and has a strong outside shot, making her a valuable asset in Caldwell’s fast-paced system.

Lauren Hurst (Cleveland, TN) – At 6-foot-3, Hurst is a skilled guard with the ability to stretch the floor and guard multiple positions. Her size and agility make her a unique weapon on both ends of the court.

Coach Caldwell’s Recruiting Strategy

Since taking over as Tennessee’s head coach in April 2024, Kim Caldwell has focused on recruiting players who fit her fast-paced, high-pressure playing style. Caldwell and her coaching staff have placed a strong emphasis on both athletic skill and high basketball IQ, ensuring that each recruit can seamlessly adapt to the Lady Vols’ system.

A key factor in Caldwell’s recruiting success has been her ability to build strong relationships with players and their families. Recruits have consistently praised the coaching staff’s genuine approach and the program’s emphasis on both personal and athletic development. The Lady Vols are not just recruiting elite athletes—they are bringing in young women who fit into a team-first culture committed to excellence.

Tennessee’s National Ranking and SEC Impact

Tennessee’s 2025 recruiting class has been ranked among the top two in the nation, with 247Sports placing it at No. 1 and ESPN ranking it at No. 2. This is the first time since 2017 that the Lady Vols have secured such a high-ranking recruiting class, demonstrating that Caldwell’s leadership is already making an impact.

Within the Southeastern Conference (SEC), Tennessee’s recruiting success sends a strong message to powerhouse programs like South Carolina and LSU. The Lady Vols are actively positioning themselves as title contenders, and the incoming talent could significantly shift the balance of power within the conference.

A Return to National Prominence

Tennessee has one of the most storied traditions in women’s college basketball, with multiple national championships under the legendary Pat Summitt. However, in recent years, the program has struggled to consistently compete at the highest level. Caldwell’s goal is to return the Lady Vols to national prominence, and this elite recruiting class is a major step in that direction.

With the infusion of new talent, the Lady Vols will have a deep and versatile roster capable of competing with the best teams in the country. Caldwell’s aggressive playing style, which emphasizes strong defense and high-paced offense, is perfectly suited for these incoming recruits.

Player Development and Future Expectations

One of the biggest factors in Tennessee’s resurgence will be the development of these recruits once they arrive on campus. Caldwell has built a reputation for maximizing player potential, and her staff will be tasked with turning these high school stars into elite collegiate athletes.

The upcoming seasons will be crucial in determining how quickly Tennessee can translate this recruiting success into on-court victories. The Lady Vols are expected to be highly competitive in the SEC, with many analysts predicting deep NCAA tournament runs in the coming years.

Looking Ahead

With the signing of five elite recruits, Tennessee is making a strong case for being one of the best up-and-coming programs in the country. Fans and analysts alike are excited about what the future holds for the Lady Vols under Caldwell’s leadership.

As these recruits transition into the college game, their impact will be closely watched. If this class lives up to its potential, Tennessee could soon find itself back in the conversation for national championships.

Coach Caldwell’s ability to attract top-tier talent proves that the Lady Vols are on an upward trajectory, and with her leadership, Tennessee is poised to reclaim its place as one of the most dominant programs in women’s college basketball.