Sports Legend Dies Suddenly – Fans Devastated

28 Jun, 2016 by Just An American

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Pat Summitt has passed away at 64. She was a legendary women’s basketball coach and after a long battle with her “toughest” opponent”, dementia, has passed on to paradise. Her son announced that she had died “peacefully” Tuesday morning and was entirely surrounded by people who loved her.

From NBC News:

Summitt served as head coach of women’s basketball at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville for 38 seasons. She was recognized as the “winningest basketball coach in NCAA history” for both men’s and women’s Division I teams.

The University of Tennessee paid tribute to Summitt’s “relentless pursuit of excellence” and lasting legacy: eight national championships, a 100 percent graduation rate and 1,098 total wins.

“Pat’s legend transcends numbers,” the university said. “It transcends sport, gender and all things quantitative.”

Following Summitt’s announcement in August 2011 that she had been diagnosed with early-onset dementia, the coaching icon set up a foundation aimed at advancing a cure for the disease.

“I thought I would be remembered for winning basketball games, but I hope I’m remembered for making a difference in this disease,” she once said, according to The Pat Summitt Foundation.

Prayers to the family and loved ones affected by this loss. RIP Pat Summitt, you deserve a little paradise.