Basketball
Former Penn State women’s basketball coach, Rene Portland, who succeeded to build the Lady Lions into a national powerhouse during a 27-year tenure, has died on Sunday, July 22 in Broomall. She was 65.
As for the cause of death, according to D’Anjolell Memorial Home of Broomall in Pennsylvania, Rene passed away after fighting cancer for three long years.
CAPTION: Rene Portland, 65, Former Penn State Women's Basketball SOURCE: Washington Times The late basketball coach's former teammates and contemporaries shared reacted on her passing.
Nancy Lieberman, who was a WNBA and NBA coach, and Rene's contemporary, said, "Rene has always been a great teacher of the game and winner. She forced you to be at your best."
The 60-year-old basketball player later paid tribute to Rene via Twitter.
Retweeting a post shared by journalist Mel Greenberg, Nancy wrote, "So sorry to hear about Rene. My thoughts and prayers to her family."
Here's the tweet, check it out.
So sorry to hear about Rene. My thoughts and prayers to her family https://t.co/vBta6J4Czn
— Nancy Lieberman (@NancyLieberman) July 22, 2018
Jay Paterno, former Penn State football coach Joe Paterno's son, also took to Twitter over the sad news.
He tweeted, "Sad to hear about the passing of long-time Penn State women’s basketball coach Rene Portland. Hope her family finds the peace that comes from their faith."
Check it out.
Sad to hear about the passing of long-time Penn State women’s basketball coach Rene Portland. Hope her family finds the peace that comes from their faith.
— Jay Paterno (@JayPaterno) July 22, 2018
Rene, who resigned in 2007, is survived by her husband John; sons John Jr. and Stephen; daughters Christine, and DeLisa; and her seven grandchildren.
Rest In Peace Rene!
