How Pat Summitt Shaped the Future: A Legacy Timeline

Updated: March 19, 2026

A closer look at the lasting mark left by Pat Summitt—a timeline of influence.

Pat Summitt was a highly successful American women's college basketball coach. As head coach of the University of Tennessee Lady Vols from 1974-2012, she amassed 1,098 career wins, then the most in college basketball history. Summitt is regarded as one of basketball's greatest coaches.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Legacy & Impact

1997: Co-Authored "Raise the Roof"

In 1997-1998, Summitt co-authored "Raise the Roof" with Sally Jenkins, about the Lady Vols' 1997–1998 undefeated and NCAA-championship winning season.

1998: Co-Authored "Raise the Roof"

In 1997-1998, Summitt co-authored "Raise the Roof" with Sally Jenkins, about the Lady Vols' 1997–1998 undefeated and NCAA-championship winning season.

1999: Inducted into Women's Basketball Hall of Fame

In 1999, Summitt was inducted into the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame as a member of its inaugural class, recognizing her significant contributions to the sport.

2000: Named Naismith Basketball Coach of the Century

In 2000, Summitt was named the Naismith Basketball Coach of the Century, an honor that highlighted her lasting impact on basketball.

2000: ESPY Awards: Lady Vols Named Co-Team of the Decade

In 2000, at the ESPY awards, the Lady Vols basketball team was named co-team of the decade, along with the Florida State Seminoles football team. Pat Summitt was also named the Naismith Coach of the Century, and Chamique Holdsclaw was recognized as the Naismith Women's Collegiate Player of the Century.

2002: Surpassed John Wooden

In 2002, Summitt surpassed John Wooden as the NCAA coach with the most trips to the Final Four, marking her 13th trip as a coach.

2007: Claimed to have mellowed

In 2007, Summitt told U.S. News & World Report that she didn't yell at her players nearly as much as she had earlier in her career.

2008: 1,000th Win and Naming of "The Summitt"

On February 5, 2009, Summitt's first milestone of the 2008–09 season was a 73–43 win over the Georgia Lady Bulldogs at Thompson–Boling Arena in Knoxville, which marked her 1,000th win. The Thompson–Boling Arena's court was subsequently named "The Summitt" in her honor.

February 5, 2009: 1,000th Win and Naming of "The Summitt"

2009: Ranked Among Greatest Coaches of All Time

In 2009, The Sporting News ranked Summitt at number 11 on its list of the 50 Greatest Coaches of All Time in all sports, recognizing her as the only woman on the list.

2012: Presidential Medal of Freedom

In 2012, Summitt received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Barack Obama.

2012: Awarded Presidential Medal of Freedom and Arthur Ashe Courage Award

In 2012, Summitt was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama and received the Arthur Ashe Courage Award at the ESPY Awards, honoring her achievements and courage.

2012: USBWA Most Courageous Award and Arthur Ashe Courage Award

In 2012, Summitt was presented the USBWA Most Courageous Award at the Final Four, and future awards were given in her name. She also received the Arthur Ashe Courage Award and said: "It is time to fight."

2013: Inducted into FIBA Hall of Fame

In 2013, Summitt was inducted into the FIBA Hall of Fame, further solidifying her legacy in international basketball.

2013: Statue on University of Tennessee campus

In 2013, an eight-foot bronze statue was erected in Summitt's honor on the University of Tennessee campus.

June 2016: NCAA Division I Championships

As of June 2016, Summitt's eight NCAA Division I championships as a coach are the third-highest total in the history of NCAA Division I men's and women's basketball.