AUSTIN, Texas (AP) Former Texas star T.J. Ford has graduated 14 years after leading the Longhorns to the Final Four and turning pro.
Ford received his bachelor’s degree in youth and community studies, with a minor in educational psychology. He participated in the commencement Friday for the College of Education.
The 34-year-old Ford was the starting point guard for two seasons with the Longhorns, leading them to their only Final Four since 1947. Texas lost in the 2003 semifinals to Syracuse and star freshman Carmelo Anthony.
Ford was the eighth overall pick by Milwaukee that year. His NBA career was cut short by spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spinal column that put him at risk of paralysis. He played parts of eight seasons.
Ford’s No. 11 was retired at Texas in 2004. He was the first basketball player and fourth Texas athlete whose number was retired.
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