Turner Thorne, a retired Arizona State coach and former Stanford player, contacted VanDerveer shortly after Tuesday's news.
“She has done it all so just really happy for her to enjoy life after coaching!” Turner Thorne texted The Associated Press. “When you know.”
Tara was deeply and widely influential. I attended her first Stanford camp as a camper, UCLA coach Close texted the AP. “I played against her and worked her camps. As a coach, I've competed against and learned from her for years.
Tara's example and direct guidance at several crossroads have shaped my coaching. Tara, great career. Because of you, our game, Pac-12, and my coaching are better. Enjoy retirement. You deserve it.”
VanDerveer will leave on May 8, her 39th anniversary after being hired. She will remain an athletic department advisor.
VanDerveer left Stanford for a year to lead the undefeated U.S. women's Olympic team to a 1996 Atlanta gold medal.
"Coupled with my time at Ohio State and Idaho, and as US National Team head coach, it has been an unforgettable ride," she remarked. "Seeing a group of young women work hard for each other and build an unbreakable bond each season was fun. Wins were byproducts. My passion of basketball began as a little girl, and it has given me so much. I hope I gave something back.”
“She’s legendary. Smith, the California coach and former Stanford player and assistant, texted the AP, "The game will miss her." For everything Tara has done to make me a better coach, I'm appreciative.
Follow for more updates