In this age of college basketball, it is rare to see the majority of a recruiting class stick around for multiple years at the same school.

However, that's what Tennessee's women's hoops program has seen with Sara Puckett, Karoline Striplin and Kaiya Wynn.

The trio made up three of four incoming freshmen for the team in 2021 and now prepare to enter their junior year still with the Lady Vols.

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Due to this time spent together, their connection on and off the court is unlike most. They have been with each other since the start of their careers and have a different perspective because of it.

"I think it's been really important just because they're two people that have been here from the start," said Puckett. "We've seen each other grow from anything that's thrown at us. We've been able to lean on each other for specific things that some people might not understand because they didn't come in with us. We just kind of understand each other. We understand each other's work ethic. Our strive to just be better in all aspects whether it's basketball or schooling. So, we kind of like push each other in those aspects. I'm just really thankful for them because they're always there for me."

Head coach Kellie Harper sees the effort the group of juniors have put in.

She understands the important roles they play to keep the program where it needs to be.

"I think that's a great group of young women," said Harper. "They've really taken on some leadership roles. Some culture stability roles to try to help enhance and build the culture here. They are all great human beings. And for them, working together, they can help connect the dots with the team and really help hold us together. Help build some things. They're very integral to this team."

Now, this group isn't just connected on the floor, though. With Tess Darby moving out, Wynn has moved in with Puckett and Striplin.

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This has done nothing but strengthen an already solid chemistry between the players.

"It's been really cool, this year is kind of super special because we're roommates now," said Striplin. "So, we've kind of got that extra facet of bonding I feel like. It's been really cool to be here and stay together for three years. I think that our bond has just grown exponentially."

While the group previously saw each other almost every day at practice and other Lady Vol events, the new living situation has cemented an already strong relationship.

"It's been fun," said Wynn. "I love going home and just talking to my best friends and being able to eat breakfast with them and stuff and watch movies. So, I'm having a good time.

"We were already pretty close before I moved in, but me moving in just really cemented that. We're able to spend more time together and do a lot of fun things together."

This time off the court is helping their play, as well.

The trio can already see their time together paying off in practice. With the season just weeks away, the juniors know what each other need.

"It's really special," said Wynn. "I'm glad that we've grown up together and gone through a lot of things together. You can see it on the court. We have great chemistry between us three. And we kind of know what each person needs and what makes them tick, I guess. It is rare these days, but I'm glad that if I had to be in this position, I'm with both of them."

Tennessee will begin it's season on Nov. 7 against Florida A&M but will be in action for two scrimmages before kicking off the regular season. This includes matches with Carson-Newman and Team USA.

The three players have previously played big roles for the Lady Vols and are expected to continue their growth this season. With contributors running out of eligibility or entering the WNBA, the trio are candidates to step up in their absence.

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