Denise Jilka is stepping into a key role with the Tennessee Lady Vols, and head coach Kim Caldwell couldn't be more thrilled. On Friday, the program officially named Jilka as executive director of basketball operations—a move that brings a familiar face into a position of greater responsibility.

Jilka has been with Tennessee for 12 years, most recently working in academics within the women's basketball program. That deep institutional knowledge is exactly what Caldwell, now in her third season at the helm, is counting on.

"I could not be happier to announce Denise Jilka as our executive director of basketball operations," Caldwell said. "Because of her work ethic and her familiarity with our program, our staff and personnel around the university and SEC, I expect this to be a seamless transition."

The head coach also highlighted Jilka's personal qualities as a major asset. "Her energetic personality and spirit, her organizational skills and her ability to connect with people will serve her and our program well in this role."

In her new capacity, Jilka will work alongside Maggie Stanley, who serves as assistant director of women's basketball operations and special assistant to the head coach. Together, they'll handle the behind-the-scenes essentials that keep a championship-caliber program running: logistics, academics, daily scheduling, and travel coordination.

For Lady Vols fans, this is more than just a staff appointment—it's a sign of stability and continuity. With someone like Jilka, who already knows the rhythm of the program and the rigors of the SEC, the transition should be smooth. And in the high-stakes world of college basketball, a well-oiled operations team can make all the difference between a good season and a great one.