Pat Summitt

This photo I took back in 2011 perfectly sums up Pat Summitt. That glare. Oh man, that glare. It could make a grown man shiver. Yet underneath that rough exterior, was a woman with so much heart. Though she set so many records, the one I think really makes her stand out is that ALL, not just most, but ALL of her players had a 100% graduation rate. Pat Summitt showed courage both on and off the court, and instead of hiding when she received her diagnoses, she opted to share her story. She continued to inspire millions even after she stepped down as head coach. The world lost a true legend today. I feel honored to have been able to witness her coaching on multiple occasions, and at one time, even shaking her hand on HER court. Your spirit and your legend will forever live on.

Statistics:
Named NCAA's Coach of Year 7 times
8 National Championships
1,098 career victories
100% graduation rate for ALL players
Silver Olympic medal (on the FIRST Olympic Women's Basketball team)
Olympic head coach for the USA's women's team in 1984- won Gold Medal

Her courage battle with early onset dementia, Alzheimer's type brought so much awareness and additional research to this horrible disease.

Today, whether or not you were a Tennessee fan, take a moment to remember a woman who not only shaped women's basketball, but sports in general. My heart is shattered.