NEW YORK -- Pat Summitt, C. Vivian Stringer, and a 6-foot-7 freshman phenom highlight the fourth annual Maggie Dixon Classic.
The women's doubleheader will be played Dec. 13 at Madison Square Garden.
The two Hall of Fame coaches will meet for the seventh straight year when Tennessee and Rutgers will play in one game. Baylor and freshman star Brittney Griner will face Boston College in the other contest.
The last two meetings between the Lady Vols and Scarlet Knights were thrillers. Tennessee beat Rutgers on a controversial finish two years ago in Knoxville and last season, the Scarlet Knights built a 20-point halftime lead only to see it evaporate as the Lady Vols completed the biggest comeback in school history to win 55-51.
The two teams played once before at Madison Square Garden. Tennessee won 68-54 in 1999.
Baylor will be making its first appearance at MSG. The Lady Bears finished fifth in the final Top 25 poll before losing in the regional semifinals to Louisville. Griner made a name for herself in high school with her highlight-reel dunks and blocked shots.
Boston College is in its second year under coach Sylvia Crawley. She led them to the semifinals of the WNIT last season.
It's the third straight season that the Scarlet Knights will play in the Classic named for the former Army women's coach. Last season Rutgers routed Army and Connecticut beat Penn State in front of nearly 9,500 fans.
Maggie Dixon died April 6, 2006, of arrhythmia, probably caused by an enlarged heart. Her death came three weeks after her first season as a head coach, a performance that won the admiration of the academy and all of college basketball.
The inaugural Maggie Dixon Classic was held at Army in 2006 -- a men's and women's doubleheader. Pitt's men's team -- coached by Maggie's brother Jamie, beat Western Michigan and Ohio State routed Army.
Tuesday, July 07, 2009
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Friday, June 26, 2009
10 Questions for Candace Parker
1. Do you think women's basketball is catching on with the masses? James Fields SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF.
I think it is catching on. It's the fastest-growing sport in America. I think a lot of guys are learning to respect our game as well. Our women's Olympic team is going for its fifth gold medal in 2012.
2. When do you think the salaries of female basketball players will begin to approach the salaries of male players? Anne Kenefic JAMESTOWN, N.Y.
I look at it this way: the WNBA is 13 years young. I think eventually women will get to that point, maybe in my daughter's generation, where their salaries will be similar to men's. But we're still starting off, like, where the NBA was back in the 1950s. (See pictures of Parker's career.)
3. Do you think they should create coed-league sports on a professional level? Luke Denker, BELTON, MO.
I don't think it's necessary. I think it's neat that women play our game. Obviously, the strength of men--I really don't feel like we could play in a professional league with them. I think it's great that young girls have the WNBA to look up to now.
4. How are you doing with your new daughter? Has your coach at Tennessee, Pat Summitt, started recruiting her yet? Brenda Goodman JOHNSON CITY, TENN.
When I first told Coach Summitt that I was pregnant, she was like, Where can we send the papers? I had to remind her that my husband [Minnesota Timberwolves forward Shelden Williams] went to Duke, so he's pushing for her to go there. But I'm doing great. My baby is the joy in my life. Obviously, I'm suffering from lack of sleep, but it truly is a blessing to be a mother.
5. How hard is it coming back to the WNBA after a pregnancy? Emily Johnston MARYVILLE, TENN.
My teammates have done it. Tina Thompson came back the same season she delivered her son. Lisa Leslie waited a year. They're still at the top of their game. I don't think it's going to be easy, by any means, but I think it's possible to come back better than I was. I understand my body a lot more. I focus a lot more on stretching and taking care of myself.
6. How do you feel you have impacted women's sports, and what do you believe is your responsibility to young women coming up in sports? Hernan Gonzalez ORLANDO, FLA.
I don't know if I've necessarily done it, but my goal is to allow girls the same opportunities that I had. I was literally in the first generation that could look up to female athletes as role models. I was a humongous Mia Hamm fan. I wanted to be a soccer player until I was in the eighth grade. She was my role model. That's what I hope to be.
7. My 10-year-old daughter Hannah has aspirations of playing college ball. What is your advice for her? Rob Swiger, GALAX, VA.
Go out there and play against guys. That's what I did growing up. I have two older brothers who beat me up and made me tough, and I love them for it. I would always play against them because they were bigger and faster and stronger, and it makes you tougher.
8. Would you ever sign to play in the NBA? Warren Spencer MANTECA, CALIF.
Sure.
9. Growing up playing basketball, did you ever have to deal with negative or sexist comments? Minnesa Khan, JAMAICA, N.Y.
I never really had to. When I would go to the park, maybe initially they would be like, She's a girl, she can't play. But then the next time, they were picking me first for their team. Let your actions speak for themselves. Don't worry about what everybody else is saying. Just concentrate on playing basketball and embrace being a woman and being in sports.
10. Do you ever play your husband one on one? Dan Sutin, TORONTO
Shelden and I don't play because we are so competitive, we would probably hurt each other.
I think it is catching on. It's the fastest-growing sport in America. I think a lot of guys are learning to respect our game as well. Our women's Olympic team is going for its fifth gold medal in 2012.
2. When do you think the salaries of female basketball players will begin to approach the salaries of male players? Anne Kenefic JAMESTOWN, N.Y.
I look at it this way: the WNBA is 13 years young. I think eventually women will get to that point, maybe in my daughter's generation, where their salaries will be similar to men's. But we're still starting off, like, where the NBA was back in the 1950s. (See pictures of Parker's career.)
3. Do you think they should create coed-league sports on a professional level? Luke Denker, BELTON, MO.
I don't think it's necessary. I think it's neat that women play our game. Obviously, the strength of men--I really don't feel like we could play in a professional league with them. I think it's great that young girls have the WNBA to look up to now.
4. How are you doing with your new daughter? Has your coach at Tennessee, Pat Summitt, started recruiting her yet? Brenda Goodman JOHNSON CITY, TENN.
When I first told Coach Summitt that I was pregnant, she was like, Where can we send the papers? I had to remind her that my husband [Minnesota Timberwolves forward Shelden Williams] went to Duke, so he's pushing for her to go there. But I'm doing great. My baby is the joy in my life. Obviously, I'm suffering from lack of sleep, but it truly is a blessing to be a mother.
5. How hard is it coming back to the WNBA after a pregnancy? Emily Johnston MARYVILLE, TENN.
My teammates have done it. Tina Thompson came back the same season she delivered her son. Lisa Leslie waited a year. They're still at the top of their game. I don't think it's going to be easy, by any means, but I think it's possible to come back better than I was. I understand my body a lot more. I focus a lot more on stretching and taking care of myself.
6. How do you feel you have impacted women's sports, and what do you believe is your responsibility to young women coming up in sports? Hernan Gonzalez ORLANDO, FLA.
I don't know if I've necessarily done it, but my goal is to allow girls the same opportunities that I had. I was literally in the first generation that could look up to female athletes as role models. I was a humongous Mia Hamm fan. I wanted to be a soccer player until I was in the eighth grade. She was my role model. That's what I hope to be.
7. My 10-year-old daughter Hannah has aspirations of playing college ball. What is your advice for her? Rob Swiger, GALAX, VA.
Go out there and play against guys. That's what I did growing up. I have two older brothers who beat me up and made me tough, and I love them for it. I would always play against them because they were bigger and faster and stronger, and it makes you tougher.
8. Would you ever sign to play in the NBA? Warren Spencer MANTECA, CALIF.
Sure.
9. Growing up playing basketball, did you ever have to deal with negative or sexist comments? Minnesa Khan, JAMAICA, N.Y.
I never really had to. When I would go to the park, maybe initially they would be like, She's a girl, she can't play. But then the next time, they were picking me first for their team. Let your actions speak for themselves. Don't worry about what everybody else is saying. Just concentrate on playing basketball and embrace being a woman and being in sports.
10. Do you ever play your husband one on one? Dan Sutin, TORONTO
Shelden and I don't play because we are so competitive, we would probably hurt each other.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Summitt will be featured Fever guest
University of Tennessee women's basketball coach Pat Summitt will be the featured guest for the Indiana Fever's Inspiring Women Night on July 30 when they play Connecticut.
Sunday, June 07, 2009
Things you may not know about Pat Summitt
The YWCA has chosen the eight women who will be named Lifetime Achievement honorees at its 25th annual Tribute to Women event on Aug. 20. They are all women who've led the way on their individual career paths:
Donna Cobble, the first woman on a number of local community boards and the first female chair of both the Greater Knoxville Chamber of Commerce and the United Way campaign;
Pam Fansler, the first female East Market President of First Tennessee Bank;
Sarah Moore Greene, longtime educator and first black member of the Knoxville City Board of Education;
Debra London, first female president of a major East Tennessee medical center, now Mercy Health Partners;
Barbara Reid, first black associate dean of the University of Tennessee's College of Nursing;
Mintha Roach, first female CEO of the Knoxville Utilities Board;
Liane Russell, a retired ORNL scientist and a leading researcher; and
Pat Summitt, the most winning coach in NCAA basketball history.
Things you may not know about Pat Summitt, head coach of the Lady Vols basketball team
Education? BS in physical education, University of Tennessee Martin, 1974; MS in physical education, UT Knoxville, 1975
First job? Head women's basketball coach, UT Knoxville
Mentor? Billie Moore, my Olympics coach in 1976
When I was a kid I wanted to be? A basketball player
Book I learned a lot from? The Bible
Philosophy of life? Treat others the way you want to be treated
If I didn't have my current position I'd be? A teacher
Someone I admire I've not met? Celine Dion
My greatest strength? Teaching skills
My greatest weakness? Over-scheduling
Introvert/extrovert? Extrovert
A good day is? A day at the beach
A bad day is? A rainy day at the beach
One habit I'd recommend to others? Exercise
Is caffeine a must? Not necessarily … but have at least one cup a day
Favorite time of day? Sunset
I eat at my desk? Rarely
Favorite work clothes? Sweats
Last vacation? Kona, Hawaii, August 2008
What makes a good boss? Someone who allows you to manage your own program
What makes a good employee? Loyalty and someone who possesses an excellent work ethic
Hardest part of my job? Losing a game
Favorite part of my job? Teaching on the court
A goal I've yet to accomplish? Nine national championships
Most important skill one needs to be successful? Great communication skills
Donna Cobble, the first woman on a number of local community boards and the first female chair of both the Greater Knoxville Chamber of Commerce and the United Way campaign;
Pam Fansler, the first female East Market President of First Tennessee Bank;
Sarah Moore Greene, longtime educator and first black member of the Knoxville City Board of Education;
Debra London, first female president of a major East Tennessee medical center, now Mercy Health Partners;
Barbara Reid, first black associate dean of the University of Tennessee's College of Nursing;
Mintha Roach, first female CEO of the Knoxville Utilities Board;
Liane Russell, a retired ORNL scientist and a leading researcher; and
Pat Summitt, the most winning coach in NCAA basketball history.
Things you may not know about Pat Summitt, head coach of the Lady Vols basketball team
Education? BS in physical education, University of Tennessee Martin, 1974; MS in physical education, UT Knoxville, 1975
First job? Head women's basketball coach, UT Knoxville
Mentor? Billie Moore, my Olympics coach in 1976
When I was a kid I wanted to be? A basketball player
Book I learned a lot from? The Bible
Philosophy of life? Treat others the way you want to be treated
If I didn't have my current position I'd be? A teacher
Someone I admire I've not met? Celine Dion
My greatest strength? Teaching skills
My greatest weakness? Over-scheduling
Introvert/extrovert? Extrovert
A good day is? A day at the beach
A bad day is? A rainy day at the beach
One habit I'd recommend to others? Exercise
Is caffeine a must? Not necessarily … but have at least one cup a day
Favorite time of day? Sunset
I eat at my desk? Rarely
Favorite work clothes? Sweats
Last vacation? Kona, Hawaii, August 2008
What makes a good boss? Someone who allows you to manage your own program
What makes a good employee? Loyalty and someone who possesses an excellent work ethic
Hardest part of my job? Losing a game
Favorite part of my job? Teaching on the court
A goal I've yet to accomplish? Nine national championships
Most important skill one needs to be successful? Great communication skills
Thursday, June 04, 2009
US Congress honors Pat Summitt
There are very few honors Coach Pat Summitt hasn't already won, but when you win more than 1000 games, the accolades keep pouring in.
Today, the U. S. House of Representatives unanimously passed a resolution sponsored by Tennessee Congressman John Duncan to recognize Summitt's accomplishments.
The release from Congressman Duncan's office reads:
The House of Representatives today unanimously passed a resolution introduced by Congressman John J. Duncan, Jr. (R-Tenn.) congratulating Pat Summitt for achieving her 1000th victory as the University of Tennessee's Lady Vols Head Basketball Coach.
The remarkable accomplishment of 1000th wins appropriately occurred when the Lady Vols beat Southeastern Conference rival the University of Georgia Lady Bulldogs on February 5, 2009.
Coach Summitt is the winningest coach in NCAA basketball history, men's or women's, in any division. Her teams have brought eight national titles to the university and hold the best NCAA tournament record, men's or women's, at 104-20. The Lady Vols have not had a losing season since Coach Summitt took the reigns in 1974.
Aside from winning on the basketball court, Coach Pat Summitt has the rare distinction of an exceptional 100 percent graduation rate for her players. Every athlete who has completed her eligibility at UT has graduated or is working toward the requirements for graduation.
"I have known Coach Summitt for many years and could not be prouder of her and what she has done for the University of Tennessee," said Duncan. "While she has produced exceptional athletes, many of whom have gone on to coach or play in the WNBA, she prides herself on the academic and personal achievements of her players. The dedication and hard work of Coach Summitt, her assistants, support staff, and, of course, players have made the Lady Vols an extraordinary organization."
Coach Summitt's career record stands at an impressive 1005-193 (.840).
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Summitt receives honorary doctorate degree
Dolly Parton isn't the only famous East Tennessee woman getting a Doctorate this year; Pat Summitt is now "Dr. Pat" after getting her honorary Doctorate from the U.S. Sports Academy.
Here is the University of Tennessee's release on the honor:
University of Tennessee Lady Vol Basketball Head Coach Pat Summitt was presented with an Honorary Doctorate from the United States Sports Academy on Tuesday, May 19.
Summitt, who has won more games than any coach in college basketball, accepted her award during a presentation ceremony on the Academy's campus.
The Lady Vols coach developed a passion for basketball as a young child and continued playing through college at the University of Tennessee-Martin. In 1973, Summitt made her first U.S. National Team, winning a silver medal at the World University Games in the Soviet Union. She played on the gold-medal-winning team in the 1975 Pan American Games and brought home the silver while serving as co-captain of the 1976 Olympic Team. The next year, Summitt won two gold medals with the U.S. World Junior Team and was awarded another gold medal as coach of the U.S. Olympic Team in 1984.
While a graduate student at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, Summitt was offered the position of the team's head coach at age 22.
Over the past 35 seasons as the Lady Volunteers Head Coach, Summitt has kept her elite program in the winner's circle, earning her 1,000th victory as a head coach during the 2008-2009 season. With 1,005 collegiate wins and 63 international wins, Coach Summitt has produced an unbelievable overall record of 1,068 wins.
Summitt, inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2000, has led the Lady Vols to eight National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) titles, as well as winning three straight titles in 1996, 1997 and 1998 becoming the first team ever to accomplish this in NCAA women's basketball championship history. The Lady Vols also have 27 Southeastern Conference (SEC) tournament and regular season championships, plus 28 consecutive appearances in the NCAA Tournament.
Coach Summitt has produced 12 Olympians, 19 Kodak All-Americans and 72 All-SEC performers. She has also turned out 43 professional players representing the American Basketball League (ABL), Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) and various overseas teams.
Along with the success on the court, Summitt's student-athletes have achieved a 100 percent graduation rate for all Lady Vols who have completed their eligibility at Tennessee. She is also the author of two books, has both the University of Tennessee-Martin and the University of Tennessee basketball courts named for her, as well as having her high school gym bear her name.
Here is the University of Tennessee's release on the honor:
University of Tennessee Lady Vol Basketball Head Coach Pat Summitt was presented with an Honorary Doctorate from the United States Sports Academy on Tuesday, May 19.
Summitt, who has won more games than any coach in college basketball, accepted her award during a presentation ceremony on the Academy's campus.
The Lady Vols coach developed a passion for basketball as a young child and continued playing through college at the University of Tennessee-Martin. In 1973, Summitt made her first U.S. National Team, winning a silver medal at the World University Games in the Soviet Union. She played on the gold-medal-winning team in the 1975 Pan American Games and brought home the silver while serving as co-captain of the 1976 Olympic Team. The next year, Summitt won two gold medals with the U.S. World Junior Team and was awarded another gold medal as coach of the U.S. Olympic Team in 1984.
While a graduate student at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, Summitt was offered the position of the team's head coach at age 22.
Over the past 35 seasons as the Lady Volunteers Head Coach, Summitt has kept her elite program in the winner's circle, earning her 1,000th victory as a head coach during the 2008-2009 season. With 1,005 collegiate wins and 63 international wins, Coach Summitt has produced an unbelievable overall record of 1,068 wins.
Summitt, inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2000, has led the Lady Vols to eight National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) titles, as well as winning three straight titles in 1996, 1997 and 1998 becoming the first team ever to accomplish this in NCAA women's basketball championship history. The Lady Vols also have 27 Southeastern Conference (SEC) tournament and regular season championships, plus 28 consecutive appearances in the NCAA Tournament.
Coach Summitt has produced 12 Olympians, 19 Kodak All-Americans and 72 All-SEC performers. She has also turned out 43 professional players representing the American Basketball League (ABL), Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) and various overseas teams.
Along with the success on the court, Summitt's student-athletes have achieved a 100 percent graduation rate for all Lady Vols who have completed their eligibility at Tennessee. She is also the author of two books, has both the University of Tennessee-Martin and the University of Tennessee basketball courts named for her, as well as having her high school gym bear her name.
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