Something I Will Never Forget’: Pat Summitt’s Legendary Delivery, Told by Mickie DeMoss
Few names in sports carry the weight of **Pat Summitt**, the legendary head coach of Tennessee Lady Vols basketball. Her legacy extends beyond wins, championships, and accolades—her leadership, toughness, and relentless pursuit of excellence left an indelible mark on women’s basketball. Among the many who witnessed her greatness firsthand was **Mickie DeMoss**, Summitt’s longtime assistant and close confidante.
DeMoss recently shared a story that perfectly encapsulates **Summitt’s fierce competitive spirit**, her larger-than-life presence, and the unforgettable way she delivered messages—both to her players and her staff. It was, as DeMoss put it, *“something I will never forget.”*
Pat Summitt was a coach like no other. With **eight national championships, 1,098 career wins**, and an unparalleled commitment to her players, she redefined women’s college basketball. She was known for her **intensity, her unwavering standards, and the steely-eyed stare** that could command a room without a single word.
DeMoss, who worked alongside Summitt for years, had a front-row seat to these moments of **unforgettable leadership**. She recalls how Summitt had a way of making even the simplest message land with an impact that **no player or staff member would ever forget**.
One of DeMoss’ most memorable stories about Summitt’s ability to **deliver a message** came during an intense practice session. The Lady Vols weren’t performing up to Summitt’s standards, and frustration was mounting. Instead of a typical speech or a motivational talk, Summitt opted for something much more dramatic.
Summitt stopped practice, gathered the team, and in one swift motion, **kicked a basketball clear into the upper rafters of the gym**. The ball soared so high that everyone in the gym froze, watching as it disappeared into the overhead beams. Then, Summitt turned, looked at the players, and said in her sharp Tennessee drawl:
Now, does that get your attention?
According to DeMoss, the entire gym **went silent**. No one dared to speak, but they all knew exactly what the message was. Summitt wasn’t just angry; she was demanding their best. The team responded, picking up the intensity immediately.
DeMoss laughed when recalling the moment, but also emphasized how **Summitt had a way of getting through to her players in ways no one else could**.
*”She could have given a speech, she could have yelled, but no—she made sure everyone in that gym remembered what she was saying. And I guarantee you, not one player ever forgot that moment.”*
Pat Summitt’s ability to **inspire, motivate, and challenge her players** was legendary. But beyond the intense moments, she was also a deeply caring mentor who loved her players like family. She set a standard that not only made her players better on the court but shaped them into **strong, disciplined, and confident women** off the court.
DeMoss, who spent years working alongside Summitt, understood that better than most. She watched as players, some of whom were **fearful freshmen**, grew into **leaders, professionals, and champions** under Summitt’s guidance.
*”Pat had a way of pushing you without breaking you,”* DeMoss said. *”She made you believe in yourself, even when you doubted.”*
Although Summitt tragically passed away in 2016 after a battle with **Alzheimer’s disease**, her influence continues to shape the world of basketball and beyond. **The Summitt name remains synonymous with excellence**, and those who played for or coached alongside her carry her lessons forward.
Mickie DeMoss is just one of many who still vividly recall the moments that defined Pat Summitt’s greatness. Whether it was **kicking a basketball into the rafters** or delivering an unforgettable pregame speech, Summitt’s words and actions still resonate today.
*”It was something I will never forget,”* DeMoss said. *”And I know her players never will either.”*