Alex Rodriguez’s Half-Court Shot Wins Big for Bucknell Student

Alex Rodriguez’s Half-Court Heroics: A Slam Dunk for Bucknell Student

Feb 23, 2025, 03:34 PM ET

In a delightful twist of fate, former Major League Baseball star Alex Rodriguez, known for his prowess on the baseball diamond, showcased his unexpected basketball skills on Sunday. During halftime at Bucknell University’s game, Rodriguez made a half-court shot that won a lucky student a cool $10,000. Talk about a memorable day at the game!

The 14-time All-Star was the special guest at Bucknell’s Bucknell game, where the Bison secured an impressive 84-53 win over the Army Black Knights. The 49-year-old Rodriguez, who is more accustomed to hitting home runs than basketball shots, tossed a high-arching shot from half-court. The ball banked off the backboard and swished through the hoop, igniting a jubilant celebration among the students in attendance.

Rodriguez’s presence at Bucknell wasn’t just for the basketball game. He was there to speak about his entrepreneurial venture, Jump Platforms, a company he co-founded with Jordy Leiser and Marc Lore. Interestingly, Leiser is a trustee at Bucknell, which added a personal touch to Rodriguez’s visit.

For those who might not be familiar with Rodriguez’s illustrious baseball career, here’s a quick recap:

• He hit 696 career homers.
• Played for the Seattle Mariners, Texas Rangers, and New York Yankees.
• He is a three-time MVP.

Currently, Rodriguez is making headlines off the field as well. He is in the process of trying to purchase a majority stake in the Minnesota Timberwolves alongside his business partner, Marc Lore. This move into the NBA ownership realm is yet another chapter in Rodriguez’s diverse career.

It’s not every day you see a baseball legend making waves on a basketball court, but Rodriguez’s half-court shot was a reminder of his athletic versatility and charisma. The Bucknell students who witnessed the event will likely remember it for years to come, not just for the unexpected basketball prowess but also for the generous prize it secured for one lucky student.

As Rodriguez continues to expand his influence beyond baseball, whether through business ventures or potential NBA ownership, it’s clear that his impact on sports and entertainment is far from over. His appearance at Bucknell was a perfect blend of sports, business, and a touch of showmanship, leaving everyone with a story to tell.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.