I am deeply saddened to report the passing of Kellie Harper, a former player and coach for the University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers women’s basketball team. Harper tragically lost her life in a serious automobile accident.
Harper’s association with the Lady Vols began as a student-athlete, where she achieved remarkable success. Between 1996 and 1998, she was instrumental in securing three consecutive national championships under the legendary coach Pat Summitt. Her leadership on the court was pivotal during this golden era of Tennessee basketball.
After her playing career, Harper transitioned into coaching, bringing her extensive experience to various programs. She served as head coach at Western Carolina, NC State, and Missouri State, ([clutchpoints.com](https://clutchpoints.com/tennessee-womens-basketball-news-kellie-harper-fired-lady-vols-head-coach-after-disappointing-seasontennessee-womens-basketball-news-kellie-harper-fired-lady-vols-head-coach-after-disappointing-season?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) before returning to her alma mater in 2019. During her tenure at Tennessee, she led the Lady Vols to consecutive Sweet 16 appearances in 2022 and 2023. However, following a season that concluded with a loss to North Carolina State in the second round of the NCAA Tournament, the university announced her departure in April 2024. ([usnews.com](https://www.usnews.com/news/sports/articles/2024-04-01/tennessee-fires-lady-vols-coach-kellie-harper-after-5-seasons?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
Throughout her career, Harper was celebrated for her dedication to the sport and her unwavering commitment to the Lady Vols program. Her passion for basketball and her alma mater was evident in every role she undertook, leaving a lasting impact on the teams she coached and the players she mentored.
The news of her passing has left the basketball community in mourning. Her legacy as a player and coach will continue to inspire future generations. Our thoughts are with her family, friends, and all those who were touched by her remarkable journey in the world of basketball.
