KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Pat Summitt was relaxed, smiling and even cracking jokes — looking and sounding totally at peace knowing she will never coach her beloved Tennessee Lady Vols again.
The Hall of Fame coach who just eight months ago revealed she had been diagnosed with early-onset dementia, Alzheimer's type, has turned the program over to longtime assistant Holly Warlick.
"It was really a great ride for me," Summitt said Thursday, speaking on the Tennessee basketball court named after her before a crowd of about 200 fans, faculty and friends.
"I just felt like it was time for me to step down knowing that Holly was going to be in great hands," Summitt said. "She's a great coach and you know I'm going to continue to support her. You know It's never a good time, but you have to find the time that you think is the right time and that is now."
I have been an admirer and fan of Pat Summitt for many years, I wish all "coaches" possessed the same qualities as Pat. She was loyal to her University, a dedicated coach, and a friend and adviser to those athletes who played for her. She totally supported all the programs at Tennessee, and I think that her enthusiasm and support for all the sports, persuaded many to consider attending there. She is in a class all her own, and there are very few, if any, who can compare with Pat. She will put up a courageous fight.
