Friends of Basketball

Tom Graves

Year Inducted: 1977

Category: Friends of Basketball

Schools / Organizations: Marion High School

Biography: Beginning in 1949 and continuing for more than 30 years, Tom Graves did not miss a home game at Marion High School. He enjoys the same reserved seat at the games. Tom also likes to see that the Wildcat football and basketball players get to eat. He began a tradition of taking the teams out for a steak dinner. Marion greats such as Ray Fosse, John Garrett, Marvin Brooks, and Greg Starrick have all enjoyed the meals alongside Graves. Walt Frazier, as a member of the Southern Illinois University team, also enjoyed Tom’s generosity. Tom has given of himself without thought of personal recognition or repayment in support of Wildcat booster activities.