The Tennessee Lady Volunteers basketball program is set to commemorate a monumental milestone during the 2024-25 season, celebrating 50 years of excellence, tradition, and impact in women’s collegiate basketball. Since its founding in 1974, the Lady Vols have not only become one of the most successful programs in NCAA history but also a symbol of empowerment and progress for women’s sports.
Throughout the season, Tennessee plans to honor the rich legacy of Lady Vols basketball, paying tribute to the players, coaches, and moments that have shaped the program. This includes a series of special events, themed games, and tributes to the legendary figures that have worn the iconic orange and white jersey, including trailblazing coaches, championship teams, and All-American athletes.
At the forefront of the celebration will be Pat Summitt, the late Hall of Fame coach whose name is synonymous with women’s basketball greatness. Summitt’s 38-year tenure as head coach elevated the Lady Vols into a national powerhouse, earning eight NCAA championships and making her the winningest coach in Division I basketball at the time of her retirement. Her influence on the game and women’s sports as a whole is immeasurable, and the 50th anniversary season will certainly reflect on her contributions to the program.
Current head coach Kellie Harper, a former Lady Vol who played under Summitt and won three national championships as a player, expressed excitement about the upcoming celebration. “It’s an honor to be part of such a historic program,” Harper said. “We want to use this season to not only recognize the past but also to inspire the future of Lady Vols basketball.”
The Lady Vols’ rich history includes 18 Final Four appearances, 23 Southeastern Conference (SEC) championships, and an indelible impact on women’s basketball, both on and off the court. Alumni, fans, and players alike will have the opportunity to participate in various celebrations, including reunions and ceremonies, as Tennessee honors its storied history and looks forward to continuing its legacy of excellence.
As the Lady Vols embark on their 50th anniversary season, the team’s achievements over the decades serve as a reminder of the program’s resilience, dominance, and commitment to inspiring future generations of athletes.