In those first few years, Summitt was still playing, representing the United States, most notably at the 1976 Olympics, where she won a Silver Medal. In 1982, the NCAA created their National Tournament, and every single one of Summitt’s players who was with her for four years would reach an Elite Eight.
Summitt took the Lady Vols to the Final Four 18 times, winning it all on eight occasions. Winning 1,098 games, she won another 112 in tournament action. She was named the Naismith Coach of the Year five times, and that number should have been higher.
Internationally, she coached the Americans to Gold Medals at the 1979 FIBA World Championship and the 1984 Olympics. By winning it all in Los Angeles, Summitt became the first person to win an Olympic medal as both a player and coach.
Summitt stepped down after the 2011-12 season after having revealed that she had early-onset Alzheimer's. She died four years later.
Under Summitt, Tennessee never had a losing record. Not only was she an incredible coach, but her legacy extended beyond the hardwood. Every one of her players who completed her eligibility at Tennessee under Summitt graduated with a degree.
Every single one.