Key Highlights
- Tennessee Lady Vols coach Kim Caldwell discusses her team’s preparation for an upcoming game against Alabama.
- Caldwell emphasizes the importance of rebounding and believes having Talaysia Cooper and Kaniya Boyd back will help.
- The coach highlights Jaida Civil’s growing confidence as a scorer and stresses the need to manage freshmen players in SEC play.
- Preparation for the match against Alabama includes focusing on defense, particularly guarding three-point shots.
Tennessee Lady Vols Coach Kim Caldwell Reflects on Upcoming Match Against Alabama
Tennessee Lady Vols basketball coach Kim Caldwell addressed the media following a recent practice session, discussing her team’s preparation for an upcoming game against No. 21/21 Alabama (17-2, 3-2). The match is set to take place on January 18 at 2 p.m. Eastern time and will be broadcasted on the SEC Network.
Rebounding Drills and Team Rotation
Caldwell highlighted that her team has started every practice with a rebounding drill, emphasizing its importance throughout their training sessions. “It helps in practice,” Caldwell noted. “We have more bodies, we have more subs, our players like it, and you never want to be without a player in the middle of SEC play.” She also believes that having both Talaysia Cooper and Kaniya Boyd back will boost team dynamics.
Preparation for Alabama
The coach acknowledged the tough matchup against Alabama, emphasizing the need for her players to remain focused. “I’m going talk to them about it and just kind of open-ended ask what their thoughts are,” Caldwell said. She also discussed the importance of starting the season 4-0 in SEC play and managing expectations as they move forward.
Building Confidence Among Freshmen
Caldwell expressed her hopes that players like Jaida Civil will continue to grow in confidence. “She is becoming more confident,” Caldwell stated, adding, “Five and five in the SEC is, then it turns to nine and nine, and then it turns to 12 and 12.” She also addressed Deniya Prawl’s role on the team, noting that they need more out of her and all their freshmen players.
Defensive Strategies Against Alabama
The coach emphasized the importance of guarding three-point shots against Alabama. “They shoot the three really well,” Caldwell explained. She also mentioned that the team needs to eliminate middle drives and win the rebounding battle if they want to secure a win.
With this preparation in mind, the Tennessee Lady Vols are set to face Alabama on January 18. As Caldwell prepares her squad for the challenge, she remains confident in their ability to perform at their best.