Jim Walker

jim.walker@irontontribune.com

 

They’re changing kickoff to tip-off.

Former Ohio State football players will showcase their talents on the basketball court in a benefit game at 7 p.m. Saturday in the Ironton High School Conley Sports Center.

The game was organized by former Ironton and Ohio State football standout Tyler Whaley in cooperation with former Ohio State defensive back Roy Hall who operates a foundation called “Driven” that helps mentor young men about proper conduct in society.

“We feel like we’ve had a good response,” said Whaley. “Hopefully everything will be good. It should be fun for everybody. It’s a good thing for the community, it’s affordable and it’s for a good cause.”

The Buckeyes’ team will feature former another Ironton standout in Marcus Williams. Other Ohio State players expected to play are Gary Berry, Tyler Everett, Maurice Lee, Thomas Mathews and Trevor Robinson.

Whaley said that the game will be fun, but “the Buckeye players are really competitive. It’ll be a good game.”

The opposing team will include several former Ironton players including Dennis Gagai, Zac Carter, Eric Barnes and Brandon Walker. Carter and Gagai are 1-2 on Ironton’s all-time scoring list.

There will be guest speaker at halftime and an autograph session will follow the game. There will be a concession stand that will plus a silent auction is also planned that includes tickets to an Ohio State football game. Players will sign autographs after the game.

Admission is $5.

On Sunday, Whaley and Hall will give testimonials during a 9:45 a.m. service at First Baptist Church. They will talk about how God has played a role in their lives.

Whaley said the Sunday service will be a laid back affair.

“It’ll be a scarlet and grey day. People can wear their Ohio State colors and just relax,” said Whaley.