Archie and Jimmy: It's about offering opportunity
By SETH SHANER
Published: Wednesday, July 22, 2009
SNP photo by Seth Shaner
Archie Griffin (left) and Jim Jackson share a moment Monday, July 20, at the 19th annual Archie Griffin Scholarship Fund Golf Outing at Medallion Club Monday, July 20.
Start with college football's only two-time Heisman Trophy winner, add the player synonymous with Ohio State basketball in the late 20th century, and you'll get quite a showing.
Archie Griffin honored Jimmy Jackson at the 19th annual Archie Griffin Scholarship Fund Golf Outing at Medallion Club Monday, July 20, and there was no shortage of both OSU football and basketball greats in attendance.
"It's great," Jackson said of being the honoree. "I mean, the name Archie Griffin says a lot, not just as a football player, but the kind of man he's become over the years. He's such a staple and figure for Ohio State, so to be honored for his tournament, words can't describe it."
Jackson played in the NBA from 1992-2006 after being selected fourth overall by the Dallas Mavericks in the '92 draft, but his efforts as a player were only part of the reason Griffin chose to honor him.
"Needless to say, he was a fabulous player at Ohio State," Griffin said. "His number's retired at the Schottenstein Center, and he just did an outstanding job for the Buckeyes, but what I like the most about Jimmy is what he's doing now for kids.
"I had the opportunity to play in his golf outing in June and the things he's doing in Toledo, and even Columbus, totally blows your mind. That's the kind of guy I want to honor here, and in the future."
Jackson's teammates, Mark Baker and Jamie Skelton, were in attendance, as was his head coach, Randy Ayers.
"One thing about our team is we came in at a time where we made a transition for Ohio state basketball," Jackson said. "We were a close-knit group and I think that's why we were successful on the court, but off the court we were all great friends and we all stay in touch and get together. It's a beautiful thing that they can come out and be a part of this, as well.
"We had some great times. It was a great time for Ohio State basketball, and a great time for our group. It's just funny how time goes by. You don't appreciate those times probably until now, when we reflect on it."