Kim Caldwell issues statement on Tennessee assistant coach departure

Tennessee’s women’s basketball season concluded March 20 with a loss to North Carolina State in the NCAA Tournament first round.

The Lady Vols finished their 2025-26 campaign with a 16-14 (8-8 SEC) record under second-year head coach Kim Caldwell.

Following the season, Caldwell announced coaching staff changes.

Tennessee hired Florida State associate head coach Bill Ferrara and he will serve as an assistant coach, replacing Gabe Lazo, who submitted his resignation on March 27. Lazo was hired at LSU after leaving Tennessee.

On Thursday, Caldwell and the Lady Vols parted ways with assistant coach Roman Tubner.

“I want to thank coach Tubner for his contributions to our program during the past two seasons,” Caldwell said in a statement released by Tennessee. “We wish him the very best moving forward.”

In two seasons as Tennessee’s head coach, Caldwell has complied a 40–24 (16-16 SEC) record and appeared in two NCAA Tournaments, including the 2025 Sweet 16.

Kim Caldwell addressed the recent departure of a member of her staff, offering a composed and thoughtful statement that reflects both professionalism and a forward-looking mindset for the Tennessee Lady Volunteers basketball. While coaching changes are a natural part of the sport, each transition carries its own set of challenges, particularly for a program working to maintain stability and momentum.

In her statement, Caldwell emphasized gratitude, acknowledging the contributions the departing assistant made during their time with the program. Coaching staffs often operate behind the scenes, but their impact is felt in player development, recruiting efforts, and the overall culture of a team. By recognizing that work, Caldwell reinforced the importance of respect and appreciation, even as the program moves in a different direction.

At the same time, her message made it clear that the focus remains on the future. Transitions like this can create uncertainty, but they also provide an opportunity to reassess and strengthen the program. Caldwell’s tone suggested confidence in the direction Tennessee is heading, signaling to players, recruits, and fans that the foundation remains intact. Stability at the top often plays a critical role in how teams navigate change, and her leadership appears centered on maintaining that balance.

For the players, a coaching departure can be a significant adjustment. Assistant coaches often build close relationships with athletes, serving as mentors and key points of communication. Their absence can be felt both on and off the court. Caldwell acknowledged this dynamic, reinforcing her commitment to ensuring that players continue to receive the support and guidance they need. That reassurance is essential, particularly during periods of transition.

Recruiting is another area where such changes can have an impact. Assistant coaches frequently play a major role in building relationships with prospects, and any shift in staff can influence how those connections evolve. Caldwell’s statement subtly addressed this by reaffirming the program’s vision and commitment to attracting and developing talent. Maintaining continuity in that message is crucial, especially as Tennessee continues to compete for top recruits.

There is also a broader context to consider. Coaching movement has become increasingly common across college basketball, driven by new opportunities, career advancement, and the ever-changing nature of the sport. While departures can be disruptive, they are also part of the natural progression within the profession. Caldwell’s response reflected an understanding of that reality, balancing acknowledgment of the past with an emphasis on what lies ahead.

For Tennessee, this moment represents a chance to build on its existing structure. Bringing in a new assistant offers the opportunity to add fresh perspectives, new ideas, and potentially different strengths that can enhance the program. While change can be challenging, it can also serve as a catalyst for growth, pushing teams to adapt and evolve.

Fans, as always, will be watching closely to see how the program responds. Coaching changes often spark questions about continuity and performance, but Caldwell’s measured approach helps provide a sense of reassurance. Her statement did not dwell on uncertainty but instead focused on confidence, gratitude, and a clear sense of direction.

Ultimately, Kim Caldwell’s response to the assistant coach’s departure reflects a leadership style grounded in composure and purpose. By acknowledging the contributions of the past while emphasizing the opportunities ahead, she has set the tone for how Tennessee will move forward. In a sport where change is inevitable, it is this kind of steady leadership that allows programs to remain competitive and focused, regardless of the challenges they face.