Former Lady Vol Star Holly Warlick Reveals Pat Summitt’s Unforgettable Advice
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Holly Warlick, a legendary figure in Tennessee Lady Volunteers basketball, recently shared a powerful and emotional story about the late Pat Summitt, the program’s iconic former head coach. In a heartfelt interview, Warlick revealed a piece of advice Summitt imparted years ago, advice she’s now ready to share publicly.
“Coach Summitt always told me, ‘Holly, you have a story to tell. Don’t hide your light under a bushel,'” Warlick recalled, her voice thick with emotion. “For years, I held onto that, thinking the time wasn’t right. But I can’t hide it anymore.”
Warlick’s revelation centers around the profound impact Summitt had on her life, both on and off the court. Summitt, known for her demanding yet nurturing coaching style, instilled in Warlick not only basketball skills but also the importance of leadership, resilience, and unwavering faith.
“She pushed me harder than anyone ever had,” Warlick admitted. “There were times I wanted to quit, times I doubted myself. But she saw something in me, something I didn’t even see in myself. She believed in me, even when I didn’t believe in myself.”
The advice to share her story wasn’t just a casual suggestion; it was a charge, a legacy passed down from one generation of Lady Vols to the next. Warlick’s decision to finally heed Summitt’s words underscores the enduring power of mentorship and the importance of sharing personal narratives.
Warlick’s story is not just about basketball; it’s about overcoming adversity, finding strength in vulnerability, and honoring the memory of a coach who changed countless lives. It’s a testament to the lasting impact of a mentor who believed in her players, not just as athletes, but as people. Her upcoming book, tentatively titled “The Summitt Standard,” promises to delve deeper into this powerful relationship and the lessons learned along the way. The book is expected to be released next year.
