November 2, 2025
Ruby Whitehorn dismissed from Tennessee Lady Vols
The news comes days after she was charged with simple possession of marijuana
Lady Vols head coach Kim Caldwell dismissed guard Ruby Whitehorn from the team Sunday, per the University of Tennessee athletic department.
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“It is my responsibility to protect the high standards of this historic program,” Caldwell said in a statement. “In light of recent events, Ruby has been unable to reflect those standards, and I have made the difficult decision to dismiss her from our team. I love Ruby and will always be rooting for her, but my priority is to uphold the respected reputation of the Lady Vols.”
The news comes after Whitehorn was arrested and charged with simple possession of marijuana early Thursday morning following the team’s 148-48 exhibition game win over Columbus State on Wednesday night. Whitehorn previously pleaded guilty to charges of misdemeanor trespassing and aggravated vandalism following a domestic violence incident in August. She was temporarily suspended from the team at the time and reinstated in September.
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Whitehorn also issued a statement via Instagram Sunday. “As most of you know, this has not been my best year. I’m not usually one to open up about my personal life or challenges and that is part of the reason I am in this position today,” she wrote. “For the past couple of months I have walked by fear and not faith. Fear of asking for help, for guidance, fear of failure.
“To my coaches & teammates, I appreciate the support on and off the court. I have failed to uphold the standards of the lady vol legacy and what it represents and for that I apologize,” she continued. “To the Lady Vol community and fans, your support and encouragement will forever be appreciated.”
Whitehorn added that she will be “dedicating time so that I can focus on healing and bettering myself mentally.”
Whitehorn was expected to play a key role in the Lady Vols’ 2025-26 season. She played her first two seasons at Clemson before transferring to Tennessee last season, when she averaged 11.6 points and 4.0 rebounds.
No. 8 Tennessee will open up the regular season Tuesday against No. 9 N.C. State in Greensboro, North Carolina.
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