The Tennessee Lady Vols traveled to Baltimore and turned a tentative opening into a commanding 98-60 victory over Coppin State. Coach Kim Caldwell praised the experience, noting the supportive crowd and the value of playing in a hostile environment.
Key performances
Kaylene Smikle led the way with 18 points, scoring 17 after halftime despite early foul trouble. Gabby Minus and Kennedy Fauntleroy each added 12 points, while Aaliyah Moore contributed 11. Jada Eads posted nine points, and both Riley Makalusky and Naomi White chipped in eight.
Fauntleroy also recorded seven assists and three steals, drawing particular praise from Caldwell for her ball security and defensive activity.
Local ties
Four Lady Vols hail from the Northeast, making the Maryland trip a shorter journey for their families. Smikle is from Bay Shore, New York; Rylie Theuerkauf from Tenafly, New Jersey; Zhen Craft from Waldorf, Maryland; and Fauntleroy from Upper Marlboro, Maryland. Caldwell highlighted the benefit of having family nearby for the younger players.
Historic first
This was Tennessee’s inaugural game at a Historically Black College or University (HBCU). The decision followed Coach Caldwell’s review of Pat Summitt’s book “Sum It Up,” which emphasized playing near players’ hometowns.
“Playing at an HBCU gives us a different environment,” Caldwell said. “The fans are very into it, and it prepares us for future loud, hostile venues.”
Looking ahead
The Lady Vols return home for two games next week, hosting New Haven on Nov. 10 and Middle Tennessee on Nov. 12, the latter part of the “Salute to Service” series offering complimentary admission to current military members, veterans and first responders.
Caldwell noted areas for improvement, including shot selection, foul management and defensive consistency, and emphasized the importance of film study to build on this win.
Original reporting: Knox TN Today — read the source article.
