ST. LOUIS (USBWA) – An icon, leader, visionary, mentor, mother and coach, Pat Summitt was all of those things and much more. While her 1,098 victories, 22 Final Four appearances (18 NCAA, 4 AIAW), 16 Southeastern Conference (SEC) titles, eight national titles and 1998 U.S. Basketball Writers Association (USBWA) Coach of the Year honors are monuments to her greatness, Summitt's biggest impact and victories were away from the court, where she championed causes for equal women's rights, Alzheimer's disease and had a 100 percent graduation rate.

Pat inspired a generation of women, motivated student-athletes, influenced coaches and transformed lives. That's her ultimate legacy. Her fierce spirit will live on through her players. Summitt's accomplishments transcend statistics.

Words don't do her legacy proper justice. Instead of using the world as a place to live in; Summitt used it as a giant canvas to create change, open minds and break through barriers. With an enthusiasm for life, Summitt was a courageous pioneer who made a difference.

On behalf of the USBWA, we extend our deepest sympathies to the Summitt family and Volunteers everywhere.

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