A Setback for the Lady Vols
Tennessee head coach Kim Caldwell confirmed that junior guard Avery Mills will be sidelined for an extended period after sustaining a right knee injury during a team skill workout on Tuesday.
Mills transferred to the Lady Vols after the 2025‑26 season and brings a strong collegiate background, having excelled at Liberty Christian Academy in Lynchburg, Virginia, where she scored over 2,700 points and pulled down more than 1,000 rebounds.
During her time at Liberty University she appeared in 59 games, averaging 10.5 points, 2.6 rebounds and 1.7 assists, and earned Conference USA Freshman of the Week honors twice, highlighted by a 27‑point game against Jacksonville State in Alabama.
Coach Caldwell said the injury will require a careful rehabilitation plan, but Mills will continue to wear jersey No. 1 for the upcoming 2026‑27 campaign as she works toward a full return.
The setback arrives as the Lady Vols aim to build on recent momentum, with the coaching staff confident that Mills’ experience and work ethic will eventually translate into a significant contribution once she is back at full health.