Jamar Butler should get more credit than he has in the past four years. The former Mr. Basketball product from Lima, Ohio has been with the Buckeyes through thick and thin. In what seems to be a transition year from last season’s NBA lottery roster, Jamar has excelled. He posted his best statistical year as a Buckeye in 2007-2008. He averaged almost 15 ppg, a Big Ten leading 6 apg, and a respectable 3.2 rpg. His field goal percentage jumped from 39% to 42% this year. He also led the conference in foul shooting, at 94%, up from 85% a year ago.

After seeing the front page of the Columbus Dispatch last year after the championship game, one must wonder what the editor was thinking. It was the most crushing photo of a player on the losing side of a game that has ever been printed. It wouldn’t be shocking if thousands of people refrained from buying it that day. But Jamar Butler showed the true heart of a champion, and a Buckeye. He returned to The Ohio State University for his Senior season to help the team win. In the process, he became the all-time assist leader and leader in three-pointers made in Ohio State history. Butler, along with Matt Terwilliger, compiled more wins than any other Buckeye in four years.

Every player on the floor should do their part, and Butler did just that. A point guard is supposed to distribute the ball and get assists, and that’s why his name will be etched in the record books. A guard should also have a nice perimeter game, which he also proved. But Jamar Butler also proved to everyone that the most important and fundamental concept of wearing the Scarlet and Gray is to be a winner. After defeat, a winner gets up, learns from it, works harder, improves, and gives 110% again.