KNOXVILLE, TN – Tennessee Lady Volunteers head coach Kim Caldwell is demanding a response from the NCAA following Sunday’s controversial loss to the Texas Longhorns in the Sweet Sixteen. The Lady Vols fell 67-59 in a game marked by several officiating decisions that Caldwell believes impacted the outcome of the contest.
The highly anticipated matchup saw the Lady Vols struggle to maintain momentum, with Caldwell and fans alike left frustrated by what they perceived as questionable calls. The game was tightly contested throughout, with both teams battling for a spot in the Elite Eight. However, it was a series of foul calls and no-calls in crucial moments that led Caldwell to voice her concerns about the officiating.
One particular instance occurred late in the fourth quarter when Tennessee star player, sophomore guard Madison Hayes, appeared to be fouled on a potential game-tying drive. Despite protest from the Lady Vols bench and fans, the referees let the play go without a whistle, and Texas capitalized on the missed opportunity to extend their lead.
Coach Caldwell, visibly upset during her post-game press conference, stated, “We deserve better than this. The NCAA needs to take a hard look at what happened out there today. These kids work their hearts out, and for the game to be decided by questionable calls — it’s unacceptable.”
Caldwell called for transparency from the NCAA, asking for an official explanation of the officiating decisions made during the game. She also emphasized that, while she respects the referees’ authority, the integrity of the game must be maintained.
Tennessee’s loss marked the end of their NCAA tournament run, but Caldwell’s fierce advocacy for her team has sparked a wider conversation about fairness and accountability in college basketball officiating. As the Lady Vols head into the offseason, Caldwell’s remarks signal that this controversy is far from over.
