Jim Walker

jim.walker@irontontribune.com

 

What happens when you combined Ohio State football and basketball? You get a benefit basketball game.

Some former members of the Ohio State football team will play a benefit basketball game at 7 p.m. on Saturday, June 21, at the Ironton High School Conley Sports Center.

Former Ohio State defensive back Roy Hall operates his foundation “Driven” and uses games to help raise funds. The foundation mentors young men about proper conduct in society.

Former Ironton and Ohio State football standout Tyler Whaley was instrumental in organizing the game benefit game that will help the Ironton athletic program.

“It’s all come together pretty quick,” said Whaley. “Hall’s thing is the basketball game to help the foundation and I played with them a few months ago. I said I’d like to do this in Ironton and Roy jumped at the opportunity.”

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

The opposition for the Buckeyes will include Ironton’s top two all-time leading scorers Dennis Gagai and current Walsh University guard Zac Carter.

Former Ironton and Ohio State defensive back Marcus Williams will be part of the Ohio State team along with Tyler Everett, Maurice Lee, Thomas Mathews, Trevor Robinson and Nick Patterson as well as Hall.

There will be guest speaker at halftime and an autograph session will follow the game. A silent auction is also planned that includes tickets to an Ohio State football game.

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.

Admission for the benefit game will be a $5 donation.