When Tennessee’s Lady Volunteers squared off against Mississippi State in a crucial SEC showdown, the game wasn’t just another notch in the win column for the Vols—it was a statement. A statement of resilience, execution, and growth. For Kellie Harper, the former Lady Vols coach now leading the program at Missouri State, there was plenty to admire in Tennessee’s victory. While Harper, who led Tennessee from 2003 to 2007, is no longer with the program, her insights into the game offer a deep dive into what makes this current Lady Vols team special and what impressed her most about their victory over Mississippi State.
1. Defense and Tenacity
Tennessee’s defense stood out in the win, an aspect of the game that Harper knows well, having led the Lady Vols during an era where defense was the hallmark of the program. The Lady Vols exhibited incredible energy and focus on the defensive end, which helped them control the tempo of the game and stifle Mississippi State’s offense.
Harper, a coach with a keen eye for defensive strategies, was undoubtedly impressed with how Tennessee executed their defensive game plan. The Lady Vols utilized aggressive ball pressure, forced turnovers, and made sure to contest shots at every turn. They kept Mississippi State from getting into any offensive rhythm, something that is critical when facing an opponent with the potential to score in bunches.
The discipline in defending Mississippi State’s key players—especially in limiting their outside shooting and controlling the paint—was also noteworthy. Tennessee’s defense created opportunities for their offense and set the tone early, which Harper would certainly have recognized as a key to the team’s overall success in the contest.
2. Depth and Team Chemistry
One of the most impressive elements of Tennessee’s win was their team depth. The Lady Vols have a roster filled with talent across the board, and in this game, several players stepped up at different moments to contribute. For Harper, who led teams with varied levels of depth during her tenure at Tennessee, the versatility and ability to rotate players without sacrificing performance would have been a source of admiration.
In particular, Tennessee’s bench came through in critical moments, showcasing not just the talent but the overall chemistry of the squad. Players like Jordan Horston, who is known for her all-around game, and the contributions of freshmen and role players helped keep Tennessee’s energy high throughout the game. A team that has quality depth can sustain intensity throughout a long game, and this is a hallmark of a well-coached, cohesive unit.
Harper knows that team chemistry is crucial, and in watching this win, it was clear that Tennessee’s players trust each other and play for the greater good of the team rather than for individual accolades. The ball movement, unselfish play, and communication were all evident, indicating that the Lady Vols are in sync under head coach Kellie Harper’s former assistant, Kellie Harper, who is a graduate of the University of Missouri.
3. Offensive Execution
Tennessee’s offensive efficiency in the win over Mississippi State also caught Harper’s attention. While the defensive effort was certainly central to the victory, the offensive execution was equally important. Tennessee’s offense wasn’t just based on individual play or reliance on one key player; instead, it was a system-driven approach that saw the ball move fluidly, and the players were disciplined in their roles.
Harper would have particularly admired the poise the Lady Vols showed in executing their plays, especially during crunch time. Their ability to run set plays, create open looks, and make smart decisions with the basketball demonstrated the team’s maturity and understanding of the game. This execution reflects the coaching staff’s ability to prepare the team for key moments and ensure the players are mentally sharp when it matters most.
4. Leadership and Poise Under Pressure
In high-stakes games like the one against Mississippi State, leadership becomes critical. Tennessee showed a remarkable level of poise when the game was on the line, and this would have impressed Harper, who understands the importance of having leaders on the floor. The leadership from upperclassmen and veterans like Rickea Jackson and Rae Burrell helped guide the Lady Vols when Mississippi State threatened to make a run.
Harper would recognize the leadership not just in the conventional sense—through vocal commands or actions—but in the way Tennessee remained calm and composed in moments of pressure. When Mississippi State made a push, Tennessee didn’t panic. Instead, they responded with steady offensive sets, defensive stops, and the maturity to execute the game plan with precision. This calm under pressure is something that distinguishes great teams, and it’s clear that Tennessee’s players have bought into their roles and responsibilities.
5. Free Throw Shooting and Efficiency
In tight, competitive games, free throws can make or break a team’s chances, and Tennessee’s performance from the charity stripe in their win over Mississippi State was another factor that impressed Harper. The Lady Vols converted crucial free throws when they needed them most, maintaining efficiency at the line throughout the game.
For Harper, this aspect of the game highlights a team’s discipline and focus, especially in close matches. Teams that struggle with free throw shooting often find themselves losing tight games, but Tennessee’s success at the line was a testament to their mental toughness and preparation.
6. Coaching and Game Management
While the players executed brilliantly on the court, Harper would also have recognized the job that Tennessee’s coaching staff did in preparing the team for this matchup. The Lady Vols’ game plan was well-thought-out, and the coaching staff made the right adjustments as the game progressed.
The ability to manage the game clock, make key substitutions, and adjust strategies in real-time is a skill that Harper, as a coach, would deeply appreciate. The coaching staff’s ability to keep Tennessee focused and disciplined, particularly during moments of adversity, was essential in securing the win.
Conclusion
For Kellie Harper, who has been part of the Lady Vols legacy both as a player and coach, the victory over Mississippi State was a glimpse into the potential of this current team. From their defense and poise under pressure to their offensive execution and leadership, Tennessee displayed all the qualities of a championship-caliber squad. As an ex-coach who has seen the evolution of the Lady Vols program, Harper would likely have been proud of the way this team played, impressed by the growth they’ve shown throughout the season, and optimistic about their future prospects.
In the end, Tennessee’s win wasn’t just a result of individual talent—it was a collective effort that showcased the strength of teamwork, leadership, and smart coaching. For Kellie Harper, it was a reminder of the winning traditions that have long been a part of Lady Vols basketball.