• Hoops For Heroes Archive | 2026 Photo Gallery
In 2026, for the 15th time, the Hoops For Heroes program was once again a featured part of the OVC Basketball Championships.
The Hoops For Heroes initiative began as a way to honor veterans from Ohio Valley Conference schools that have served in the military. In 2025 the project expanded to also honor first responders that serve in our member institution communities.
The Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) of the OVC selects a representative and invites them to attend the OVC Basketball Championships.
The Hoops For Heroes Initiative is a great vehicle to recognize those in the OVC community who sacrifice so much for our freedom.
"Talk about a humbling experience just to know that someone thought highly enough to appreciate our service for one, but to also recognize us and put us out in front of the community. We don’t do it for recognition but it is nice to get recognized," said Ronald Swaim, U.S. Army Veteran and USI nominee.
"It is a cool thing to see all the veterans here. We all come from different places but we all served the same purpose so it is a great thing to see," said Lindenwood nominee and Navy Veteran Charles L. Griffin.
"This was my first Conference Championship," said Tennessee State nominee and Navy Veteran Reginald Green. "To be able to interact with everyone from the OVC, I’m really appreciative of that."
Below is this year’s honored veterans:
Eastern Illinois: Kiel Schaljo (Fire Department Lieutenant)
Lindenwood: Charles L. Griffin (Navy Veteran)
Little Rock: Patrick Dalton (Navy Veteran)
Morehead State: John Northcutt (Assistant Fire Chief)
Southeast Missouri: Chase Porter (Marine Veteran)
SIUE: Ronald Swaim (Army Veteran)
Southern Indiana: Michael Barrentine (Army National Guard)
Tennessee State: Reginald Green (Navy Veteran)
Tennessee Tech: Kiera Hill (Police Department)
UT Martin: Charlie Jahr (Safety & Emergency Management Coordinator, Retired Police Officer)
Western Illinois: Rodney Burg (American Legion/VFW)
