Georgetown Coach Tasha Butts' Passing Mourned

Georgetown University mourns the death of Women's Basketball Head Coach Tasha Butts after her battle with breast cancer.

Georgetown University's Department of Intercollegiate Athletics is deeply saddened by the passing of Women's Basketball Head Coach Tasha Butts after her courageous battle with breast cancer. Butts, who was not only an accomplished player but also a nationally recognized assistant coach and first-year head coach, passed away at the age of 41.

Lee Reed, the Francis X. Rienzo Director of Intercollegiate Athletics, expressed his heartfelt condolences in a news release. He described Butts as a winner on the court and an incredible person with unmatched drive, passion, and determination. Reed acknowledged her leadership qualities and her unwavering fight against breast cancer. He emphasized that this is a difficult time for the entire Georgetown community and that they will come together to honor her memory.

University President John J. DeGioia also offered his condolences, describing Butts' passing as a devastating loss. He praised her character, determination, vision, and kindness, highlighting her impact not only on the Georgetown community but also on people across the country who were inspired by her life. DeGioia extended the university's sincere condolences to Butts' family.

Butts' tenure at Georgia Tech, where she led the team to consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances, will be remembered as transformative. In the 2021-22 season, her team achieved a historic victory against UConn, breaking their 240-game winning streak against unranked opponents. School officials emphasized that Butts' influence went beyond the basketball court as she fearlessly fought cancer while continuing to inspire her players.

During her time at LSU, Butts made a significant impact on the program, guiding the Tigers to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and consecutive Sweet 16 runs in 2012 and 2013. Officials praised her for mentoring a generation of players, nurturing their talents, and fostering their personal growth as athletes and individuals.

Butts was actively involved in programs dedicated to advancing coaching excellence and was recognized for her commitment to the advancement of Blacks in sports.

Originally from Milledgeville, Georgia, Butts was a standout player in high school. Her outstanding achievements were honored by retiring her jersey, which bore the iconic No. 23.

Butts is survived by her parents, Spencer, Sr. and Evelyn, her brother Spencer, Jr., her nephew Marquis, a large extended family, and the entire women's basketball community.

As the 2023-24 season approaches, Darnell Haney will serve as the interim head coach for Georgetown. The university, along with BIG EAST Conference officials, has pledged to continue Butts' "Tasha Tough initiative," which focuses on early cancer screenings and detection.

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