ESPN CONFIRMED: University of Tennessee Women’s Basketball Head Coach KIM CALDWELL Departs for Arizona State to Pursue New Challenge and Spend More time with…

In a stunning development, ESPN has confirmed that University of Tennessee women’s basketball head coach Kim Caldwell is leaving the program to take over as the head coach at Arizona State. Caldwell, who led the Lady Vols to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances during her tenure, cited a desire for a “new professional challenge” and “more time to be closer to family” as major factors in her decision.

Caldwell’s move comes just months after Tennessee made a deep postseason run, solidifying her reputation as one of the brightest coaching minds in women’s basketball. Sources say that while the Lady Vols made a strong effort to retain her, Arizona State presented an opportunity that was “too personal and too exciting to pass up.”

In a statement released Monday morning, Caldwell thanked Tennessee’s players, staff, and fans: “Tennessee will always hold a special place in my heart. This was not an easy decision, but it’s the right one for my family and for the next chapter of my career. I am forever grateful to the Tennessee community for their unwavering support.”

Arizona State officials are expected to introduce Caldwell at a press conference later this week. Meanwhile, Tennessee has launched a national search to find her replacement as they look to maintain their storied basketball tradition.