Ruby Whitehorn Addresses Dismissal from Tennessee Lady Volunteers

Senior guard Ruby Whitehorn has been dismissed from the Tennessee Lady Volunteers women’s basketball team following her second arrest in just over two months. Head coach Kim Caldwell made the announcement on November 2, stating that maintaining the program’s high standards was her primary responsibility. Whitehorn was arrested at 4:31 a.m. on October 30 for possession of marijuana, according to the university police crime log. The incident occurred just hours after she scored 18 points in Tennessee’s dominant 148-48 exhibition victory over Columbus State. This marked her second legal issue since August, when she was charged with aggravated burglary and domestic assault following an altercation outside a woman’s residence. Whitehorn later pleaded guilty to two misdemeanors—vandalism and aggravated criminal trespass—under a judicial diversion agreement, allowing for her record to be expunged if probation requirements are met. In a public statement after her dismissal, Whitehorn apologized to her coaches, teammates, and the Lady Vols community, acknowledging she had “failed to uphold the standards of the Lady Vol legacy.” She also announced she would step away from basketball to focus on her mental health and personal growth. Her attorney, Gregory Isaacs, stated that Whitehorn intends to plead not guilty to the most recent misdemeanor charge and anticipates a positive outcome. Whitehorn joined Tennessee last season after transferring from Clemson, where she started 62 of 66 games and averaged up to 12.3 points per game. In her first year with the Lady Vols, she contributed 11.6 points and 4.0 rebounds per game, starting in 28 of 34 contests as the team advanced to the Sweet 16. Coach Caldwell had previously praised Whitehorn’s athleticism and scoring ability, calling her “one of the best downhill scorers” she had seen. With Whitehorn’s departure, Tennessee faces a key roster change as it prepares to open the season against NC State in Greensboro. The Lady Vols will look to regroup and build on last year’s NCAA tournament run under Caldwell, who is entering her second season as head coach. For full player stats and news, visit Ruby Whitehorn – Tennessee Lady Volunteers – ESPN and follow the Lady Vols on Twitter for updates.