The sports community is currently mourning the loss of beloved Georgetown women’s basketball coach, Tasha Butts.
Tasha, who was diagnosed with advanced-stage breast cancer in 2021 sadly lost her battle on Monday, according to the school’s athletic director Lee Reed.
“I am heartbroken for Tasha’s family, friends, players, teammates and colleagues,” said Reed. “When I met Tasha, I knew she was a winner on the court and an incredible person whose drive, passion, and determination was second to none. 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.”
More On Her Career
Following long years of coaching and playing professionally in the WNBA, she came on as assistant coach in April 2019 at Georgia Tech. She was promoted to associate head coach two years later. While there, Butts announced she had been diagnosed with advanced-stage metastatic breast cancer. However, that didn’t stop her from doing what he loved.
She began coaching at Georgetown from Georgia Tech this past April. Sadly Tasha had to step away from her dirties last month as her health was deteriorating. Georgetown president John J. DeGioia said,
“Tasha’s passing is a devastating loss. She was extraordinary. Tasha was a person of character, determination, vision, and kindness. She will be deeply missed by our community and by so many people around the country who have been inspired by her life.”
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More On Metastatic
In the realm of oncology, the term “metastatic” often evokes fear and uncertainty. Metastatic cancer, also known as stage IV cancer, is a formidable adversary that affects millions of lives worldwide.
Metastatic cancer refers to the advanced stage of cancer where the disease has spread from the original site (primary tumor) to other parts of the body. This spreading, known as metastasis, occurs when cancer cells break away from the primary tumor, invade nearby tissues, and travel through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to form new tumors in distant organs or tissues. For example, breast cancer that spreads to the bones or liver becomes metastatic breast cancer, not bone or liver cancer.
The development of metastatic cancer is a complex process that researchers are still actively studying. Various factors can increase the risk of metastasis, including the type and stage of the primary cancer, the tumor’s size, grade, and location, as well as the presence of certain genetic mutations. Additionally, lifestyle factors, such as smoking, poor diet, and lack of physical activity, can indirectly contribute to the risk of cancer progression and metastasis.
Receiving a diagnosis of metastatic cancer can be overwhelming, both physically and emotionally. Metastatic cancer is a complex and challenging disease, but it is not a battle that individuals face alone. By understanding what metastatic cancer is, its causes, symptoms, and available treatment options, can help empower patients, caregivers, and communities to navigate this journey with strength and resilience.
Speaking of strength and resilience, that’s exactly what Tasha Butts had when she received her diagnosis. In the midst of her battle, it inspired the Tasha Tough campaign, which has brought awareness and raised money to bring quality care to women who can’t afford it through the Kay Yow Cancer Fund.
Tasha Butts is survived by her parents, Spencer Sr. and Evelyn, her brother, Spencer Jr., and her nephew, Marquis.