Tom Jernstedt facts for kids

Thomas Walter Jernstedt (born November 24, 1944 – died September 6, 2020) was a very important person in American basketball. He worked for the NCAA, which organizes college sports, from 1972 until 2010. Because of his great contributions, he was honored in the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame in 2010 and the famous Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2017. Jernstedt passed away in Tequesta, Florida.

Early Life and School

Thomas Jernstedt was born in McMinnville, Oregon. He grew up in Carlton, Oregon. When he was in high school at Yamhill Carlton High School, he was a talented athlete. He played three different sports!

He went to the University of Oregon for college. He earned two degrees there, one in 1967 and another in 1973. While at Oregon, he played American football as a quarterback from 1964 to 1966. Sadly, injuries stopped him from playing more. He was also a leader, chosen as the senior class president in 1966. After college, Jernstedt worked in business for two years. Then, he returned to his university to work in the sports department from 1969 to 1972.

His Career in Sports

Working for the NCAA

The NCAA hired Thomas Jernstedt in 1972. His first job was to direct sports events. He is famous for helping the NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Championship become the huge event it is today. Many people know this tournament as "March Madness."

Jernstedt managed his first "Final Four" basketball tournament in March 1973. He was promoted to assistant executive director in 1974. Over the next 29 years, he held many important leadership jobs. In 2003, he became the executive vice president. His work included organizing events and managing the NCAA's brand. He also helped make deals for TV rights and sponsorships. Jernstedt left the NCAA in 2011.

In 2013, Jernstedt was chosen for a special group. He became a member of the first-ever College Football Playoff selection committee. This group decides which college football teams play for the national championship.

Working for USA Basketball

Jernstedt also worked with USA Basketball starting in 1975. This organization manages the United States' national basketball teams. He was a member of its Council. He served as vice president for men's basketball from 1976 to 1980. He held this role again from 1992 to 1996.

From 1997 to 2000, he was USA Basketball's vice president. Then, he became the organization's president from 2001 to 2004. During his time as president, the U.S. men's basketball team had some tough results. They finished sixth in the 2002 FIBA World Championship. They also won a bronze medal at the 2004 Olympics. These results led to changes in how the team members were chosen.

Awards and Honors

• 2001 John Bunn Award, the highest honor given by the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
• 2009 USA Basketball's Edward S. Steitz Award.