Jerry Sloan (1988) - Hall of Fame - University of Akron Athletics

Jerry Sloan

Induction:
1988
Class:
1968

1964-68
Basketball
‘68

It’s a good thing that Hall of Fame coach Tony Laterza listened to an outsider’s advice. He was told that a student, who could help Akron, was tearing up the intramurals. Laterza took time to see the kid play, was impressed and asked him to come play for the Zips. The kid’s name was Jerry Sloan—and the rest is history! Jerry Sloan, a walk-on, went on to score 1,210 points over his 100-game career (1964-68) which placed him 10th on the all-time scoring list after lettering four seasons in 1968. As a freshman Sloan helped UA capture the Ohio Conference (OC) and NCAA Mideast Regional Tournament Championships—earning All-Mideast Regional in the process. The 1965-66 tea, repeated as OC and Mideast Regional Champs and went on to finish third nationally while compiling a 24-4 record. The 6-1 guard saved his best offensive performance for his senior campaign. Sloan led the Zips in scoring (17.4) and free throw percentage by sinking 103 of 120 attempts (.858). He had career high of 31 points against Eastern Illinois and 12 rebounds versus Central Connecticut. Not too bad of a career for a un-recruited walk-on from the school’s intramural ranks.