The Best Way to Remember Her: Tennessee Vols Invest $1 Million in a Statue for Pat Summitt
The University of Tennessee has announced a $1 million investment in building a statue to honor the late Pat Summitt, the legendary women’s basketball coach. Athletic Director Danny White has expressed his deep commitment to preserving her legacy, ensuring that future generations remember her contributions to the sport and the university. This initiative reflects the university’s deep appreciation for Summitt’s lasting impact, both on and off the court.
Pat Summitt was more than just a coach—she was a trailblazer in women’s college basketball. With 1,098 career wins, the most in NCAA Division I history at the time of her retirement, she set the standard for excellence. Under her leadership, the Lady Vols won eight national championships, inspiring countless athletes to push themselves beyond their limits. Her dedication and passion turned Tennessee into a powerhouse and helped elevate women’s basketball to new heights.
The decision to build a statue is not just about honoring her achievements in basketball but also about recognizing her influence on young athletes. Summitt was known for her intense coaching style, but more importantly, she cared deeply about the personal and academic growth of her players. She had a 100% graduation rate among her athletes, proving that her influence extended beyond the game.
Athletic Director Danny White stated that this statue will serve as a permanent reminder of Summitt’s values—discipline, integrity, and perseverance. White, along with university officials, believes that Summitt’s presence should always be felt on campus. The statue will be placed in a central location where students, athletes, and fans can visit, reflect, and draw inspiration from her legacy.
The funding for the project is part of a broader effort to keep Summitt’s memory alive through scholarships, facility improvements, and community outreach programs. The university has long been dedicated to preserving her legacy, having already named the basketball court at Thompson-Boling Arena in her honor. This new tribute further cements her place in Tennessee history.
For many, Summitt was more than just a coach—she was a mentor and a role model. Former players, colleagues, and fans continue to share stories of how she shaped their lives, instilling in them the confidence to overcome obstacles. Her impact reached beyond Knoxville, influencing the sport at a national and international level.
Summitt’s legacy also extends into the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. After being diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s in 2011, she became a fierce advocate for awareness and research, founding the Pat Summitt Foundation. This organization continues to make strides in funding research and supporting families affected by the disease.
The statue is expected to be unveiled in a grand ceremony, with former players, university officials, and fans coming together to celebrate her life and contributions. Many believe this tribute is long overdue, as Summitt’s influence on Tennessee athletics and women’s basketball is immeasurable.
Beyond the statue, the university is also considering other ways to honor Summitt’s legacy, such as leadership programs for student-athletes and educational initiatives inspired by her coaching philosophy. These efforts ensure that her principles continue to shape the university’s culture.
For the Tennessee community, this statue will be more than just a structure—it will be a symbol of excellence, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of greatness. Summitt’s legacy lives on in every athlete who steps onto the court, in every fan who cheers for the Lady Vols, and in every student who strives for success.
In the words of Pat Summitt herself, “Success is a project that’s always under construction.” With this new statue, Tennessee is making sure that her story, her passion, and her influence remain a part of the university’s fabric forever.