Amidst rumors and reports about the health status of former Lady Vols’ coach Pat Summitt over the past couple days, her foundation released a statement on Sunday acknowledging the “difficult” situation.
“On behalf of Pat Summitt’s family, we acknowledge the past few days have been difficult for Pat as her early onset dementia, ‘Alzheimer’s Type,’ progresses,” Erin Freeman said on behalf of the Pat Summitt family. “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, who is the all-time leader in wins in all of college basketball, announced in 2011 that she had been diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. Summitt retired as head coach of the Lady Vols’ basketball team following the 2011-12 season, but has remained on as the Head Coach Emeritus and has still had a hand in the program in the following years to the extent that her health has allowed.
Summitt, age 64, won 16 SEC titles and eight national titles as the head coach at UT from 1972-2012.
