How Pat Summitt Shaped the Future: A Legacy Timeline
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. She led the University of Tennessee Lady Vols from 1974 to 2012, amassing 1,098 career wins, a record at the time of her retirement. Widely considered one of the greatest basketball coaches ever, Summitt left an enduring legacy on the sport.
1997: Pat Summitt's Book: Raise the Roof
Pat Summitt wrote her book "Raise the Roof" in 1997. The book is about the Lady Vols' 1997–1998 undefeated and NCAA-championship winning season.
1998: Pat Summitt's Book: Raise the Roof
Pat Summitt's book "Raise the Roof" is about the Lady Vols' 1997–1998 undefeated and NCAA-championship winning season.
1999: Induction into Women's Basketball Hall of Fame
In 1999, Pat Summitt was inducted into the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame as a member of its inaugural class.
2000: Naismith Basketball Coach of the Century
In 2000, Pat Summitt was named the Naismith Basketball Coach of the Century.
2007: Summitt Claims to Have Mellowed
In 2007, Pat Summitt shared with U.S. News & World Report that she had significantly mellowed compared to her earlier coaching days. She said she didn't yell at her players as much as she had in the past.
2009: The Sporting News Top 50 Greatest Coaches
In 2009, The Sporting News ranked Pat Summitt number 11 on its list of the 50 Greatest Coaches of All Time in all sports. She was the only woman on the list.
2012: Presidential Medal of Freedom
In 2012, Pat Summitt received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Barack Obama, recognizing her significant contributions.
2012: Pat Summitt Receives USBWA Most Courageous Award and Arthur Ashe Courage Award
In 2012, Pat Summitt was awarded the USBWA Most Courageous Award and the Arthur Ashe Courage Award, recognizing her strength and bravery in facing her battle with Alzheimer's disease.
2013: Induction into FIBA Hall of Fame
In 2013, Pat Summitt was inducted into the FIBA Hall of Fame.
2013: Statue Erected at University of Tennessee
In 2013, an eight-foot bronze statue was erected in Pat Summitt's honor on the University of Tennessee campus, commemorating her achievements.
June 28, 2016: Death of Pat Summitt
On June 28, 2016, Pat Summitt passed away. She left behind a legacy as one of the greatest basketball coaches of all time.
2017: Establishment of the Pat Summitt Award
In 2017, the NCAA established the Pat Summitt Award to recognize individuals who positively influence college athletes, honoring her legacy.
2018: Statue Dedicated in Clarksville
In 2018, a statue was dedicated to Pat Summitt in her hometown of Clarksville, Tennessee, celebrating her life and legacy.
