Kim Caldwell has quickly established herself as an elite college basketball coach. In her first year in Knoxville, she led the Tennessee Lady Vols to an impressive record.
Her leadership and coaching philosophy have positioned Tennessee as a serious contender in the SEC, but beyond her success on the court, Caldwell’s contract details are equally impressive.

Kim Caldwell Salary & Contract In 2025
In April 2024, Caldwell signed a five-year contract worth $3.75 million to become Tennessee’s head women’s basketball coach. Under this agreement, she earns an annual salary of $750,000 through March 31, 2029. Additionally, if Tennessee wins the NCAA Championship, she will receive a $400,000 bonus.
Caldwell’s contract includes a unique clause that could significantly boost her salary. If she leads the Lady Vols to a national title, her salary will be adjusted to match or exceed the highest-paid women’s basketball coach in Division I.
At the time of Caldwell’s signing, LSU’s Kim Mulkey held the title of highest-paid coach in the sport, earning $3.264 million annually. However, South Carolina’s Dawn Staley set a new benchmark in 2025 with a contract worth $25.25 million over six years.
If Caldwell wins a national championship with the Lady Vols, her salary would have to be adjusted to at least match Staley’s current pay.
Tennessee Athletic Director Danny White emphasized the program’s commitment to Caldwell.
“We wanted to make it very clear that investment and how serious we are about getting our women’s basketball program back to the top is in no question at all.”
As White alluded to, the Lady Vols are one of the sport’s most decorated programs. Under legendary coach Pat Summitt, who led the team for over four decades, Tennessee captured eight national titles, 18 Final Four appearances, 16 SEC Tournament titles, 16 regular season conference titles, and many more accolades.
Kim Caldwell’s Net Worth
There are no current reports that can hint at Kim Caldwell’s updated net worth. However, here’s a complete breakdown of her earnings that can help you get the idea.
With her current $750,000 annual salary over five years, she is set to earn a minimum of $3.75 million from her Tennessee contract. This figure does not include potential bonuses, sponsorships, or endorsements that may further increase her financial standing.
If Caldwell wins a national championship, her salary could jump to at least $4 million per year, based on the latest coaching salaries. In such a scenario, her total earnings through 2029 could exceed $20 million.
Beyond her coaching contracts, Caldwell’s career success suggests potential income from endorsements and sponsorships, although specific deals have not been publicly disclosed.
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Factoring in her past roles at Marshall and Glenville State, where she built a strong reputation, Caldwell’s estimated net worth is likely somewhere between $1-$5 million. However, a national title could dramatically change that figure.
As said before, though, there are no official reports that can confirm Kim Caldwell’s official net worth.
With a promising future at Tennessee on the horizon, Caldwell’s financial trajectory is one to watch. Whether or not she reaches the top tier of coaching salaries, her impact on the Lady Vols and the sport is already significant.
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