IT IS DONE: Tennessee Volunteers Women’s Basketball Guard Avery Strickland Stuns Fans and Leaves Head Coach Kim Caldwell Speechless with Major Announcement Concerning… See More
KNOXVILLE, TN – In a jaw-dropping moment that sent shockwaves through Lady Vol Nation, Avery Strickland, one of the rising stars of the Tennessee Volunteers women’s basketball program, stepped in front of the microphone at Thompson-Boling Arena this afternoon and delivered an announcement that no one was prepared for.
“It’s done,” Strickland said, pausing as emotion filled her voice. “I’m stepping away from college basketball.”
Gasps filled the room. Reporters were stunned. And perhaps no one more so than Head Coach Kim Caldwell, who stood just feet away and appeared visibly shaken by the revelation.
The Heart of the Lady Vols
Strickland, a 6′ guard from Knoxville, had blossomed into one of the team’s emotional leaders and key contributors over the past two seasons. Known for her gritty defense, sharp three-point shooting, and infectious energy, she had become a fan favorite and a symbol of the new era of Lady Vols basketball under Caldwell.
In the 2024–25 season, she averaged 11.3 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, helping lead the Volunteers to a Sweet 16 appearance and their best SEC finish since 2018.
Her improvement and leadership were central to Caldwell’s first season at the helm, as the program looked to restore the championship legacy built by the late, legendary Pat Summitt.
Coach Caldwell: “This One Hurts”
Caldwell, who took over as head coach in 2024, was building something special in Knoxville—and Avery Strickland was at the center of it.
“I didn’t see this coming,” Caldwell said, fighting back tears. “Avery’s the kind of player every coach dreams of. She works hard, never backs down, and brings the fire every day. This one hurts—not because she’s leaving, but because of how much she means to this team.”
Caldwell revealed that the two had discussed Strickland’s decision in private days earlier, but even with that time to process, the public announcement hit differently.
“She’s more than a player—she’s family,” Caldwell added.
Why Now?
In her announcement, Strickland didn’t cite injury, poor performance, or dissatisfaction. Instead, she spoke candidly about mental health, personal growth, and a desire to explore life beyond basketball.
“I love the game. I always will,” she said. “But right now, I feel called to take a different path. I want to focus on myself, my education, my future beyond the court. This is the hardest decision I’ve ever made—but I know it’s the right one.”
She went on to thank her teammates, coaches, trainers, and the Volunteer faithful.
“Y’all welcomed a girl from Knoxville with open arms, and I’ll never forget that. I’ll always be a Lady Vol.”
A Team and Fanbase Reacts
The news spread like wildfire across campus and social media. Teammates posted messages of love and support within minutes of the announcement.
Senior forward Tamari Key wrote:
“Avery, your energy lit up every room and every practice. We’re gonna miss you like crazy, but we’re behind you 100%.”
Freshman sensation Aniya Brown tweeted:
“Role model, sister, leader. I love you Ave. Keep shining.”
Even former Lady Vols stars like Candace Parker and Tamika Catchings posted messages of support, applauding Strickland’s bravery and honesty.
“It takes strength to walk away when you still have more to give,” Parker wrote on Instagram. “Proud of you for making the call for YOU.”
What’s Next for the Lady Vols?
Strickland’s departure leaves a gap not just on the stat sheet, but in the soul of the team. While Caldwell has recruited a strong incoming class and returns several key players, there’s no denying the emotional impact of losing one of her foundational pieces.
Still, Caldwell remains optimistic.
“This program is bigger than any one player—but Avery helped us lay the first bricks of what we’re building,” she said. “And now it’s on the rest of us to carry that torch forward.”
The Bigger Picture
In stepping away, Strickland joins a growing number of collegiate athletes choosing to prioritize mental well-being and personal identity over pressure and performance.
She made it clear she’s not quitting—just evolving.
“This isn’t goodbye forever,” she said. “I’m just turning the page to the next chapter. Whether I’m back in sports someday or doing something totally different, I’m carrying everything I’ve learned from this team with me.”
