Photographs by Todd Cloward
Trentonian Article: Saturday, April 15, 2023
Ewing’s Grady Griffin to receive Jim Davis Scholarship at Mercer County Basketball Hall of Fame ceremony
The article and the link to the article are below:
https://www.trentonian.com/2023/04/15/ewings-grady-griffin-to-receive-jim-davis-scholarship-at-mercer-county-basketball-hall-of-fame-ceremony
By JOE O'GORMAN | jogorman@trentonian.com | The Trentonian
PUBLISHED: | UPDATED:
When the late Jim Davis was covering basketball for The Trentonian he always embraced the player who put the team first and would do whatever it took, on and off the court, to make his team better.
Grady Griffin is one of those players.
It is because of Griffin’s unselfish demeanor and unassuming attitude that the Ewing High senior has been chosen to receive the Jim Davis Scholarship at the Mercer County Basketball Hall of Fame inductions to be held Sunday at Mercer Oaks Country Club beginning at 3 p.m.
While Griffin will receive the $1,000 Davis Scholarship, Steinert’s Addison Corby will receive the $ 1,000 George O’Gorman Scholarship. These scholarships recognize the achievements of a male and female high school player that take their talents in the classroom and in the community, as well.
Along with the scholarships winners several players, coaches and contributors are being inducted into the Hall of Fame. The inductees are, L’Keisha Sutton (Trenton Catholic Academy), Ray Clark (Hightstown coach), Bridgette Mitchell (Peddie), Don Hess (Steinert), John “Mincy” Manczak (Official), John Simone (Notre Dame coach) and Sandy Orapel (Official).
Griffin was a vital part of Ewing’s division championship team and he played whatever role was asked and was a true leader by example.
“As a player, I know that basketball is a team sport,’’ said Griffin. “So, I pride myself in knowing and being able to play multiple positions on the court. This helps me elevate my game and puts me in the position to motivate and encourage my teammates so that we can be successful.’’
His role this season was to come off the bench and give the team a lift and he did it admirably.
“The coaching staff at Ewing decided it was best that Grady would come off the bench,’’ said Ewing coach Shelly Dearden. “Most players would have fought the idea. Some players would have quit, not Grady. He embraced his role and his constant hustle and grit helped Ewing turn its program around for the better. His personal sacrifice made Ewing a State contender. His impact would be instant as soon as he entered the game with Ewing’s tempo increasing to a high level.’’
The high level he brought to the court is also transferred to his everyday life.
“As an athlete, playing sports has made me a better person in many different ways,’’ Griffin declared. “It has made me always work hard to achieve my goals. I’ve also learned the value of brotherhood and working together. I’ve also learned that no matter how hard things get, if I am consistent and focused I will ultimately achieve my goal. I want everyone to know that I always intend to put my best foot forward and that there is no quit in me no matter what I do.’’
Griffin is on a fast track to continue to achieve his goals as he moves forward to the next chapter of his life.
“Grady has shown consistently the characteristics that Jim Davis always loved in a player,’’ added Dearden. “His work ethic is immeasurable, his selflessness is unmatched, his sacrifice is unknown to many, and his sportsmanship will never be forgotten in a world that doesn’t show sportsmanship often these days.’’
Confidence, hard work and a positive demeanor have been what has made Griffin the player and person he has become.
“I am very grateful to be receiving this scholarship,’’ said Griffin. “I have always strived to be a team player. That in itself, sometimes puts me in the background. So, to be recognized for my efforts throughout this season makes me feel appreciated and I am very thankful.’’
Joe O'Gorman | Sports Reporter
