Recruiting never stops in college sports. Even with five-star forward Oliviyah Edwards already signed to join Lady Vols basketball next year, Tennessee is making an effort to show how important she is to the program.
This week, Lady Vols assistant head coach and the primary recruiter for Edwards, Gabe Lazo, made the long trip across the country to Tacoma, Washington, to check in on Edwards.
Edwards ranks as the No. 2 player in the class on ESPN and No. 5 on 247. She’s considered one of the players with the biggest upside, as well. With the ability to play all over the floor and the athleticism to dunk as a high school player, she’s the dream fit for Kim Caldwell’s system.
Thank you for coming to spend time in Tacoma. @CoachGabeLazo pic.twitter.com/YDYHtt6AtI
— Oliviyah “Big Oh” Edwards (@EdwardsOliviyah) February 11, 2026
More From RTI: Kim Caldwell Says Lady Vols’ Historic Loss was ‘Not Acceptable’, Explains Approach Going Forward
Edwards committed to Tennessee during her official visit in September. She was being recruited by top schools across the country at the time, including South Carolina and Dawn Staley. She saw what she needed to during her trip, though, and pulled the trigger.
“Oliviyah will come in and make an impact on both ends of the court,” Caldwell said. “Her versatility and play-making ability will set her apart. She is a high character person, and we couldn’t be happier for her to join our program.”
The Lady Vols have landed another big-time signing in the class, as well. Four-star Gabby Minus is in the boat and ranks as the No. 47 player in the class by 247.
This follows Caldwell and company signing five freshmen, including three five-stars, in the 2025 class to earn the No. 2 group in the country. Each of those five is playing consistent minutes during this 2025-26 season.
Lazo will return to Knoxville for a critical matchup with Missouri on Thursday. The Lady Vols are on the heels of a brutal 43-point loss at South Carolina and now host the return of Kellie Harper and the Tigers. Tip-off on SECN+ is set for 6:30 p.m. ET.
