Jackson’s uniform will change from blue to red in 2019

You read in this space last week that following his performances during the week at the Western Kentucky University team camp, head men’s basketball Hilltopper coach Rick Stansbury was so impressed with Bulldog standout Jackson Harlan that he offered him a four year, full ride scholarship then and there.

Last week came the news that the Toppers had landed one of the top ranked big men in the nation in Charles Bassey, who has been attending one of the premier basketball prep schools, Louisville Aspire.

Bassey, who ended the year as a junior, completed the process to “re-classify” his status, and instead has graduated from Aspire and will join the Hilltoppers this coming season for the 2018-19 season.

I remember thinking when I heard the news of Bassey’s signing with WKU how that might affect Jackson’s thinking on becoming a Hilltopper and becoming the first Bulldog in a long, long time that I can think of who would be a full scholarship Division I basketball player.

It didn’t take long to find out because on Friday night, while in the lobby of the Lexington Hilton Green, Harlan made the decision to take Stansbury up on his offer and go on to play next season for the Hilltoppers.

What made the moment even more special, and was a clear indicator of just how important being a member of the team is to Jackson, is that he made that phone call from the lobby, while surrounded by his family as well as his teammates and the coaching staff of this year’s Bulldog basketball team.

A compete article on the Jackson Harlan event from last week can be found this week in the NEWS, beginning on page 1.

Of course, congratulations go out all around, first and foremost to Jackson on his accomplishments so far while wearing the coveted Blue and White Bulldog uniform that has led to this opportunity to wear the (also coveted in this office) Red and White Hilltopper uniform.

Congrats also go out to his parents, Sheldon and Jennifer Harlan, who have been right by Jackson’s side throughout his entire basketball career. Congrats also go out to his extended family members who are also beaming with pride this week at this accomplishment for their family member.

Congrats to the coaching staff and finally to the teammates who join Jackson in team fashion both on and off the floor, to make the entire team look good.

It’s a proud moment for us all!

Fore the Kids reminder

Last week I gave out a detailed account of the upcoming Fore the Kids benefit golf tournament that will be going on this Saturday at Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Golf Course.

This week – just a gentle reminder to get in on the fun, whether you are a golfer or not.

Players can participate in the tournament and non-players can lend their support by purchasing a chance to win some cash in the Bulldog Ball Drop ($5 per ball / five for $20)

Register locally at Denney Marine or to any Golf Booster, as well as at Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park. Additional details are available from any Golf Booster or by contacting Barry Melton (606-375-0101), Fredrick Honeycutt (606-688-1965)