MICHAEL REDD '97,
Professional basketball player, Olympian, humanitarian
Michael Wesley Redd was born on August 24, 1979 in Columbus, Ohio to James and Haji Redd. He was raised on the Westside of Columbus where he was actively involved in his family church. He attended West Broad Elementary School, Westmoor Junior High School, and followed in his father's footsteps leading him to West Senior High School.

While at West, Michael was recruited by Ohio State University to play basketball. During his free time, Michael would spend hours with the person he most admired, his Dad; together they would work on his game. There was no doubt that Michael could score. With his slashing style, Michael became the first true freshman to lead the Big Ten in scoring (21.7 ppg), and named Honorable Mention All-America as a Sophomore and Junior.

After his junior year, Michael was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks with the 43rd overall pick in the 2000 NBA draft. When he left The Ohio State University after his junior year, he ranked fifth in career points (1,879) among all Buckeyes.

In addition to a fruitful 6-year NBA career, which included his selection to the 2004 All-Star NBA team and consistent mention as one of the top shooting guards in the league, Michael is also passionate about his community involvement and philanthropic work. Through his annual Michael Redd Basketball Camp and

hosting Jammin Against the Darkness, Michael remains very active in his community and stays committed to helping children and families. Most recently in 2006, Michael founded the Now or Never Conference in Columbus, an evangelistic crusade for the purpose of winning lost souls to Christ.

When Michael is not on the court or out in the community, you may catch him on the golf course. But he most enjoys traveling and spending time with his wife, Achea, their families and friends. Aside from being an avid golfer, Michael likes to play tennis, ping pong, dominoes and is an old fan of wrestling. He spends quite time reading the Bible and listening to Christian music.

When reflecting on his accomplishments, Michael lists being inducted into the West Senior High School Hall of Fame, being drafted into the NBA and selected for the 2006 USA Olympic Team as a few of his biggest accomplishments. A future goal of Michael's is to go back to Ohio State University to complete his degree in Communications.

Update: In June, 2008, Michael was named to the 2008 USA Olympic Team. This is a great honor for Michael and a tribute to his dedication to his sport.