Former Major League Baseball star Alex Rodriguez demonstrated his impressive skills on the basketball court on Sunday afternoon when he made a stunning half-court shot, winning $10,000 for a Bucknell University student during halftime of the school's basketball game against Army. The incredible feat occurred at Sojka Pavilion, where Rodriguez launched the ball from the half-court line, banking it off the backboard and through the hoop, igniting enthusiastic celebrations among fellow students.
This memorable moment took place during Bucknell's 84-53 victory over Army. Rodriguez, who is also co-owner of the Minnesota Timberwolves, was at Bucknell to discuss his company Jump Platforms, which he co-founded with fellow entrepreneurs Marc Lore and Jordy Leiser. Both Lore and Leiser are Bucknell alumni, with Leiser serving as a trustee of the university.
The lucky student to benefit from Rodriguez's outstanding shot was Owen Garwood, who expressed his intention to use the financial windfall to help cover his tuition fees. "That's putting the 'buck' in Bucknell!" remarked Rodriguez, who joyfully celebrated with Garwood after the successful shot.
Rodriguez knows how to capture attention not just on the baseball diamond, having spent his MLB career with the Seattle Mariners, Texas Rangers, and New York Yankees, but now also on the basketball court. The former Yankees third baseman was clad in Bucknell apparel, showing his support for the team as he made the shot on Sunday with fans erupting around him.
During the halftime event, Rodriguez took his shot as part of an elaborate promotion coordinated by Jump Platforms, which had been responsible for various contests throughout the season, including challenges for students to win $10,000 by accomplishing different basketball shots within 30 seconds. No student had succeeded until Rodriguez and Lore decided to enter on behalf of Garwood. Rodriguez expressed his delight over the successful outcome, telling Garwood, "That is a beautiful thing. Parents, you're welcome! You should be Yankees fans, too!"
The high-profile appearance of Rodriguez not only brought excitement to the Bucknell community but also highlighted the continuing development of his business ventures. Rodriguez and Lore have been working since 2021 to secure majority ownership stakes of the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Minnesota Lynx, following various negotiations and legal battles. Earlier this month, they received favorable arbitration results, paving the way for completion of their ownership deal from Glen Taylor, the current owner of the franchises.
Before the game and shot, Rodriguez participated in discussions about entrepreneurship alongside his business partners, emphasizing the importance of innovation and support for students exploring their own ventures. Rodriguez, known for his accomplishments both on and off the field, reiterated the significance of educational support and engagement.
Back at the basketball game, as Rodriguez's emotional and triumphant moment unfolded, the Bison improved their season record to 15-14 with their commanding win over Army. They remain firmly positioned within the upper levels of the Patriot League standings as they gear up for the conclusion of the regular season with aspirations for post-season play.
The presence of Alex Rodriguez at Bucknell yielded not just sporting excitement but also underscored his commitment to supporting educational endeavors and engaging with youthful audiences, creating unforgettable memories both for himself and the student community. His efforts had tangible results, as Garwood now has the funds to alleviate some of the financial burden of tuition, reminding everyone involved of the heartwarming and community-oriented impact sports can have.
Overall, Rodriguez's successful half-court shot will likely be remembered as one of the standout moments of the season, merging sports, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy seamlessly on the basketball court.