Sgt. Warren Olden, who served with the Jackson Police Department since 1994, passed away, Monday.
He earned his degree in Physical Education and Health at Union University in 1998, the same year he was inducted into Union’s Sports Hall of Fame after starring in basketball.
A number of his records still stand today.
From Union University –
The Union University Athletics family joins with the Olden family, many friends, and the City of Jackson with the feeling of being heartbroken by the sudden loss of Warren “Big O” Olden.
Warren to this day remains the all-time leading scorer with 2,210 points in his career at Union. He is a graduate of Union University and had a long career of service in the City of Jackson, TN – Police Department.
“We are saddened at the news of the passing of Warren Olden,” said Mark Campbell, Union’s director of Athletics, “Warren was a tremendous player here at Union but he was much more than that.
“The “Big O” as we all call him was a pillar in this community. He was strong, dependable, and a force but inside that physique, he had the biggest heart. A heart for this community and a servant’s heart for people.
“That big smile was infectious. We are very grateful as an Athletic Department to be associated with Warren Olden. He will be missed.”
Hall of Fame information –
Warren Olden’s basketball career at Union University spanned the years 1990-1994. During his sophomore year, the Bulldogs played in the NAIA National Championship tournament. During his four-year career the team went 71-58. He was named All-TSAC in 1994.
Mr. Olden set numerous records during his basketball days at Union:
– Most points in a career: 2,210
– Most field goals made in a career: 865
– Best field goal percentage in a career: .641
– Best field goal percentage in a season: .661
– Most free throw attempts in a career: 684
In addition, Mr. Olden held other significant Top-10 positions in Union’s basketball record books:
– 2nd most field goals made in a season: 289 in 1991-92
– 2nd most free throws made in a career: 480
– 2nd most field goal attempts in a career: 1,349
– 3rd best scoring average in a season: 24 pts., 1993-94
– 3rd most points in a season: 767 pts., 1993-94
– 4th most rebounds in a career: 827
– 6th most points in a season: 706 pts. 1991-92
Warren goes down in the Union University record books as one of the best, all-round players in Union history, adding to the rich heritage of great Bulldog basketball.
(PHOTO: Warren Olden)
