Distinguished Alumni Award
Benjamin R. Armstrong 89BA
Benjamin R. "B.J." Armstrong 89BA, a member of the three-time NBA champion Chicago Bulls, has established himself as one of the best point guards in professional basketball. Ranked fourth on the Hawkeyes' all-time scoring list and Iowa's career leader in assists and three-point field goals, B.J. was selected by Chicago in the first round of the 1989 NBA draft.
Although Armstrong was a sharpshooting standout for the Hawkeyes, he had to adjust his game to the role of supporting player once he arrived in Chicago. B.J. persisted, though, taking advantage of his time on the bench to develop his game and to better understand his future role with the Chicago franchise. His playing time and statistics steadily improved from sixth-man position into starting lineup as Chicago's point guard.
More recently, following Michael Jordan's retirement, Armstrong has come into his own as a strong leader of the Bulls. B.J.'s skills on the court, combined with the dignity of his play, make him a favorite of Chicago Stadium fans and the pride of the Hawkeye fans everywhere. Armstrong made his first NBA All-Star Game appearance in February 1994 as the starting point guard for the Eastern Conference. He ranked third in fan ballots for the game, just behind Charles Barkley and Shaquille O'Neal.
Despite a grueling basketball schedule, numerous requests for public appearances, and obligations for commercial endorsement, Armstrong unselfishly volunteers his time to promote a number of causes he believes in. He has appeared in a public service announcement sponsored by the National Committee to Prevent Child Abuse and serves as celebrity spokesperson for the Alumni Association's Adult Literacy in Iowa Volunteer Effort.
About Distinguished Alumni Awards
Since 1963, the University of Iowa has annually recognized accomplished alumni and friends with Distinguished Alumni Awards. Awards are presented in seven categories: Achievement, Service, Hickerson Recognition, Faculty, Staff, Recent Graduate, and Friend of the University.