Tennessee Coach Gives Encouraging Talaysia Cooper Update Before Alabama Clash
In a much-anticipated development for Tennessee Lady Volunteers fans, **head coach Kim Caldwell and assistant coach Gabe Lazo confirmed a positive injury update on star guard Talaysia Cooper ahead of Tennessee’s upcoming road game against the Alabama Crimson Tide.
Cooper’s Status: “Fine” and Expected to Play
Tennessee assistant Gabe Lazo just said on the radio that Talaysia Cooper is “fine” and thinks she will be ready to go for the Lady Vols’ road game against Alabama on Sunday
— Cora Hall (@corahalll) January 16, 2026
When asked point-blank whether she expected Cooper to play, Coach Caldwell responded simply:
Importance of Cooper to Tennessee’s Game Plan
Cooper isn’t just another player in Tennessee’s rotation — she’s one of the Lady Vols’ most versatile and impactful two-way stars. This season, she’s been averaging roughly 15 points, over 6 rebounds, more than 4 assists, and 3+ steals per game, showcasing her ability to influence the game in multiple ways on both ends of the floor.
Her defensive versatility and ability to disrupt opposing ball handlers could be particularly valuable against an Alabama team that often relies on guard-driven offense. Coach Caldwell emphasized the importance of having Cooper’s presence as Tennessee looks to control tempo and turnover opportunities in Tuscaloosa.
Team Outlook and Other Returners
The Cooper update wasn’t the only injury news coming out of Tennessee this week. Guard Kaniya Boyd also appears to be nearing a return from a high-ankle sprain, as Caldwell confirmed that Boyd has also been practicing with the team — though she stopped short of guaranteeing she’ll see game action against Alabama.
Boyd, a redshirt sophomore, brings quickness and defensive pressure to the Lady Vols’ backcourt rotation. While her minutes may be limited initially, her return would give Tennessee even more depth against a physical SEC opponent.
Preparing for a Tough SEC Matchup
Tennessee enters the Alabama game motivated to keep pace in a competitive SEC. Alabama’s style — known for spacing the floor and pushing pace — presents matchup challenges that Tennessee must manage carefully. Having Cooper available not only boosts the Lady Vols’ scoring options but also their ability to defend and create transition opportunities.
With the regular season in full swing, every SEC game matters for postseason positioning. The Lady Vols, energized by the return of key contributors, hope to bring their full roster to Tuscaloosa and build momentum as the schedule tightens.