Georgetown University announced the devastating news on Monday that Tasha Butts, the head coach of the women's basketball team, has passed away at the age of 41 after a courageous two-year battle with advanced-stage metastatic breast cancer.

Butts, who was hired by Georgetown last April, had nearly two decades of experience as an assistant coach, working across various conferences. Her coaching career included four seasons at Georgia Tech, eight seasons at LSU, three seasons at UCLA, and a season at Duquesne.

In a statement released by Georgia Tech coach Nell Fortner, she expressed her sadness and admiration for Butts, saying, "Tasha was so instrumental to the success of this program. What she did as a member of this coaching staff cannot be undervalued. We are proud of her fight to the end. She will forever be missed."

Before transitioning into coaching, Butts had an impressive career as a guard at Tennessee, playing under the guidance of Hall of Fame coach Pat Summitt. She left Tennessee with a notable record, ranking fourth all-time in games played (141) and helping the Lady Vols reach two national title games while securing four SEC regular-season titles.

Butts was widely respected and admired in the women's basketball community. Her impact was evident when, after stepping away from coaching last month, numerous women's college programs from different conferences and levels participated in the Tasha Tough campaign. The campaign aimed to raise funds for the Kay Yow Cancer Fund, specifically assisting women who couldn't afford quality healthcare.

The passing of Tasha Butts leaves a void in the Georgetown women's basketball program and the wider basketball community. Her determination, toughness, and unwavering dedication to her players will be remembered and cherished by all those whose lives she touched.

Georgetown University and the entirety of the women's basketball community mourn the loss of a remarkable coach and an even more remarkable individual. Butts' legacy will endure, and her impact will continue to inspire future generations of athletes.