Family of ex-Tennessee women's coach Pat Summitt 'preparing for the worst'

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Former University of Tennessee women’s basketball coach Pat Summitt is “struggling” and those close to her are “preparing for the worst,” a source said Sunday morning.

Summitt announced in August 2011 that she had been diagnosed with early onset dementia, Alzheimer’s type.

In a statement released on the Pat Summitt Foundation website Sunday morning:

“On behalf of Pat Summitt’s family, we acknowledge the past few days have been difficult for Pat as her early onset dementia, ‘Alzheimer’s Type,’ progresses. She is surrounded by those who mean the most to her and during this time, we ask for prayers for Pat and her family and friends, as well as your utmost respect and privacy. Thank you.” Erin Freeman, on behalf of the Pat Summitt family.

Friends, family, former and current players have taken to social media offering prayer wishes for Summitt and her family.  Among those include Tennessee quarterback Joshua Dobbs,  incoming women’s basketball freshman Kamera Harris, UT Football Coach Butch Jones and musical group The Oakridge Boys.

The hashtag #PrayForPat is trending.

Her all-time record was 1,098-208 (.840). She coached 47 percent of her games against ranked opponents and also had a .913 winning percentage at home (504-48). The court at Thompson Boling Arena, where the Lady Vols and Vols play, is called “The Summitt.”