Taj Gray: Sooner for Life

As Oklahoma fought past No. 13 West Virginia to a double-digit win on Saturday, the Lloyd Noble Center crowd was also treated to the return of former Sooner basketball standout Taj Gray.

The 2005 Big 12 Newcomer of the Year and All-Big 12 selection, Gray was acknowledged during the game's first half for his fulfilling his dream of earning an OU degree. Joined at midcourt by Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics Joe Castiglione, Senior Associate Provost and Faculty Athletics Representative Dr. Gregg Garn and Director of Student-Athlete Enhancement Jaye Rideaux, Gray was presented with his OU diploma and "O" Ring.

Joining the Sooners as junior college transfer in 2004, Gray played a large role in Oklahoma's road to winning a share of the 2005 Big 12 title. After his senior season, Gray went on to play professionally overseas but always had the dream of returning to the school he loved.

"Coming back and getting my degree was always something I told myself I had to do," said Gray. "I made a promise to, not just myself, but my mother and father that I would come back no matter how long it took me. It's been 14-15 years since I've been in school, but to be able to come back and finish that up has been amazing. It's hard for me to put into words."

Gray continued the pursuit of his degree beginning in Spring 2019 and his efforts came to fruition with a Bachelor of Arts in Planned Programs. He is now contemplating pursuing a master's degree.

Gray was able to chase his degree completion through the Sooners For Life Scholarship Program. This program was created to assist former student-athletes complete their undergraduate degree and/or pursue a graduate degree. One portion of the program - specifically the Post-Eligibility Scholarship - has awarded money to 79 student-athletes across all sports.

"It's been 14-15 years since I've been in school, but to be able to come back and finish that up has been amazing. It's hard for me to put into words."
- Taj Gray

Since the beginning of Fall 2014, Varsity O has awarded $600,000 and assisted in the completion of 22 undergraduate degree and 12 graduate degrees.

When letterwinners are awarded funds from the program, they are also offered access to all of the academic support services current student-athletes utilize such as tutoring, academic mentoring and advising.

Since formalizing the program to include both the Post Eligibility Scholarship and Varsity O's endowed scholarships in Fall 2019, more former student-athletes have received more financial aid than ever before.

With the purposeful mission of helping former student-athletes earn an education, the Sooners For Life program relies on the support of alumni, fans and donors. With your help, the program can meet its goal of growing by $100,000 in 2020.

Join in our constant pursuit of excellence and support former student-athletes in growing their education experience by donating here.

University of Oklahoma Athletics

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