A new chapter for the Lady Vols
Denise Jilka has been named executive director of basketball operations for the University of Tennessee women's basketball program, a role that places her at the heart of the team's day‑to‑day management and strategic planning.
Jilka arrives after nearly twelve years of service at the Knoxville campus, where she has built a reputation for integrating academic support with athletic performance. Her work has helped sustain the Lady Vols' celebrated 100% graduation rate among scholarship athletes.
In her new capacity, she will coordinate program logistics, oversee daily scheduling, manage travel arrangements and partner closely with senior associate head coach Maggie Stanley. Together, they aim to streamline operations while preserving the program's strong academic culture.
The transition follows the departure of Catherine Greene, who left the position to assume a role within the Atlantic Coast Conference. Greene's tenure was marked by continued academic excellence, and Jilka is expected to build on that foundation.
Jilka's background spans both athletics and academia. She played softball at Bradley University, earned degrees from Bradley, the University of Denver and the University of Tennessee, and has been instrumental in international student‑athlete onboarding and programming.
University officials praised Jilka's blend of operational expertise and commitment to student success. They expressed confidence that her leadership will keep the Lady Vols competitive on the court and exemplary in the classroom.