Tasha Butts truly made a name for herself in women’s basketball, first in college, then as a pro, and finally as a coach. Most recently, she was the head coach for Georgetown.

Earlier today, John J. DeGioia, the president of Georgetown University, announced the sad news that Butts has died after a 2-year battle with breast cancer. She was only 41 years old.

DeGioia remembers Butts as “a person of character, determination, vision, and kindness.” He added, “She will be deeply missed by our community and by so many people around the country who have been inspired by her life.”

We join @Vol_Sports, @LSUsports, and the women’s basketball community in mourning the loss of former student-athlete and coach Tasha Butts. The SEC sends condolences to her family, friends, teammates, and the countless people she impacted. pic.twitter.com/B95MGhESz7

— Southeastern Conference (@SEC) October 23, 2023

Butts was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2021. At the time, she was an associate head coach at Georgie Tech. That same year, she received a promotion to head coach at Georgetown. Despite her fight with cancer, she worked hard in her new role until just one month ago when she stepped away to focus on her fight with cancer.

 

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A post shared by Tasha Butts (@tashabutts_hoyas)

Upon hearing the news of Butts’ death, Lee Ree, the Georgetown AD, had this to say about Butts, “She exhibited these qualities both as a leader and in her fight against breast cancer. This is a difficult time for the entire Georgetown community, and we will come together to honor her memory.”

Until a new head coach is hired, Darnell Haney will step in as the interim coach in Butts’ place.

Watch the video below to learn more about Butts’ life, career and fight with cancer.

Butts is survived by her parents, her brother and her nephew.