With a reworked roster, Tennessee welcomes growth before its opener

Tennessee is embracing what it describes as needed growth as it prepares for its season opener with a retooled roster.

A reworked group naturally brings a period of adjustment, as new combinations learn to play together and roles take shape. Rather than treating that as a problem, the Lady Vols are presenting the growth as a necessary part of becoming the team they want to be this season.

That process will be tested quickly once the opener arrives. How Tennessee handles the early stages, while still developing as a group, could say a great deal about the direction of the season ahead.