Tennessee Women's Basketball 2026 Signee Requests Release from Commitment Five-Star Plus+ power forward Oliviyah Edwards, ranked No. 2 in ESPN SportsCenter’s Next 100 list, has requested to be released from her national letter of intent to play for the University of Tennessee, according to Talia Goodman of Rivals. The announcement comes as the Lady Vols prepare for the 2026-27 season, which will mark the third year under head coach Kim Caldwell. Edwards, a highly touted prospect, had committed to Tennessee in September 2025, declaring her decision with the phrase “Big Oh to the Big Orange.” At the time, she highlighted her excitement about joining the program, stating, “I’m blessed and excited to announce my commitment to the University of Tennessee! Go Lady Vols.” Her decision was made amid a competitive recruitment process, as she had also considered offers from Florida, LSU, South Carolina, USC, and Washington. The release request places Edwards in a unique position, as she becomes the highest-ranked prospect to withdraw from a commitment with Tennessee since Jordan Horston in 2019. Horston, a former five-star recruit, had played a pivotal role in the Lady Vols’ 2018 NCAA championship run. Edwards’ potential departure could have significant implications for the program, particularly as the team seeks to build on its recent success under Caldwell. Caldwell, who took over as head coach in 2024, has led Tennessee to a 40–24 record over two seasons, including a 16–16 mark in the SEC. The Lady Vols advanced to the NCAA Tournament in both 2025 and 2026, with their 2025 run reaching the Sweet 16. Caldwell’s tenure has been marked by efforts to strengthen the roster, and Edwards’ commitment was seen as a key addition to the program’s future.#university_of_tennessee #sweet_16 #oliviyah_edwards #talia_goodman #kimbeth_caldwell
