**Tennessee’s Kim Caldwell Makes Inspiring Return to Court Just 7 Days After Giving Birth **
In a stunning display of resilience, **Kim Caldwell**, the first-year head coach of the University of Tennessee Lady Vols, returned to the sidelines just **one week** after giving birth to her son, **Conor**. Despite battling the flu during delivery on **January 20**, Caldwell was back at practice by Friday and led her team in a **Monday night showdown** against the reigning national champions, the **South Carolina Gamecocks**.
**The Emotional Comeback:**
– **Standing Ovation**: Caldwell received a roaring standing ovation from the crowd at Food City Center as she walked in, a moment she called “worth it” despite her attempts to “sneak in unnoticed.”
– **Balancing Act**: The 36-year-old coach praised her husband, **Justin Caldwell**, and her mother for their support, calling them essential to her ability to juggle coaching and motherhood.
– **Adrenaline Fueled**: “I love my team. I ask a lot of them, so I’m going to give them everything I have,” Caldwell said after the **70-63 loss** to South Carolina.
**What the Experts Say:**
While Caldwell’s quick return is inspiring, **OB-GYN Dr. Laura Riley** cautions that recovery varies for every new mom. “You have to listen to your body and your mind,” she told ABC News.
**Opponent’s Praise:**
South Carolina head coach **Dawn Staley** applauded Caldwell’s strength, saying, “Women have the strength of 10 men.”
**What’s Next:**
Caldwell is now focused on balancing her demanding career with her new role as a mom, proving that with the right support, anything is possible.
*Is Kim Caldwell redefining what it means to be a working mom?*
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