The world of college basketball was rocked back in 2011 when legendary Tennessee Volunteers women’s basketball coach Pat Summitt announced that she had early onset dementia, Alzheimer’s type. Since then, Summitt has not been nearly the public figure she was for nearly four decades with the Vols program.
However, on Sunday, worry has crept in over her overall health as her family has reportedly said Summitt was struggling and that they were prepping for the worst. According to the source for USA Today, few know just how long Summitt will last.
The family and close friends are by her side, and on Sunday the family issued a public statement regarding Summitt’s health.
“The past few days have been difficult for Pat as her early onset dementia, Alzheimer’s Type progresses.”
The statement from Erin Freeman of Ackermann Public Relations also said, “She is surrounded by those who mean the most to her and during this time, we ask for prayers for Pat and her family and friends, as well as your utmost respect and privacy. Thank you.”
Summitt’s reach at UT was far beyond that of the Lady Vols basketball program. Tweets and messages of support came pouring in upon the news of Pat’s situation began to spread. Perhaps most notable were those of Vols football quarterback Joshua Dobbs and head coach Butch Jones.
Can't find the words right now, only thing I can say is #PrayForPat!
Praying for Coach @patsummitt and her family tonight! #PrayforPat
— Josh Dobbs (@josh_dobbs1) June 26, 2016
Summitt’s former players and the fellow women’s basketball community also were sending out there thoughts and messages of support for her as well.
A lot of emotion this morning. Got the news Late last night abt Coach Summit. #PrayForPat Praying for all my Tenn sis as well
We need everyone who is a praying being to lock hands and #PrayForPat
— dawnstaley (@dawnstaley) June 26, 2016
Bulldog family lets #PrayForPat, her family and friends, and @LadyVol_Hoops.
— MSU W. Basketball (@HailStateWBK) June 26, 2016
Even now Duke football head coach David Cutcliffe, who spent 19 seasons with the Vols football program, tweeted out support as well.
Praying for @patsummitt. Sharing 19 yrs w her at UT was inspiring. I learned so much about coaching/leading/friendship from her #PrayForPat
— David Cutcliffe (@DavidCutcliffe) June 26, 2016