Oliviyah Edwards just made a statement before beginning his collegiate career with the Tennessee Volunteers women’s basketball team.
The five-star recruit, who was named a McDonald’s All-American last month, recently participated in the Sprite Jam Fest Dunk contest at the McDonald’s All-American game.
Edwards left everyone in awe with her dunk during the contest. The stadium erupted in loud cheers as she showed off her strength and vertical jump, clearing the rim while making the dunk.
ESPN has ranked her as the second-best recruit in the class of 2026. Edwards is also the highest-ranked signee for the Lady Vols since Jordan Horston in 2019. She was also being scouted by Dawn Staley and the South Carolina Gamecocks.
However, in September, Edwards announced her commitment to the Tennessee Volunteers during her official visit. She will begin her collegiate journey with the program this upcoming season.
Oliviyah Edwards is Looking Forward to Following in the Footsteps of Candace Parker
One of the greatest WNBA players out of Tennessee was four-time WNBA champion Candace Parker. The Los Angeles Sparks drafted her first overall in 2008. She went on to play for the Chicago Sky and the Las Vegas Aces before announcing her retirement in April 2024.
During a press interview ahead of the McDonald’s All-American game, Oliviyah Edwards said she is looking to make a name for herself just like Parker.
“I’m excited to follow in Candace’s footsteps,” Edwards said, as per Rocky Top Insider. “Obviously, she’s a great player and a great person. I would just say I’m trying to make history. Like, I’m excited.”
“I want to be able to inspire younger girls all around to show them that we can do it. I just know that I want to go into Tennessee and dominate. That’s really my goal. I want to dominate and make a name for myself, and also continue the legacy. I’m very excited. I think I’ll show a lot of growth, especially with playing against girls that are as good as me every single day. I feel like the change of pace will be good for me. And all in all, I’m just excited to be with that family,” she added.
This season, the Lady Vols qualified for the NCAA Tournament under second-year coach Kim Caldwell. However, their journey was cut short following a 76-61 loss to NC State in the first round.
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