Hall of Honor
It was clear soon after John “Roundy” Tharp hit the Beloit College hardcourt that his reputation as a Buccaneer would rival the legend he created at Sheboygan (Wis.) North High School. His success began midway through his freshman year, when he became the Bucs’ starting point guard. Once this happened, his momentum was in full swing and Tharp was unstoppable. In 1989, he earned second-team all-Midwest Conference recognition as Beloit won the league championship. By his senior year, he was a two-time team captain, had been elected as the team’s Most Valuable Player, and had earned first team all-conference honors. During the 1991 season, Tharp continued his dominance on the court and proceeded to set Beloit records with 181 single-season assists and 502 career assists (setting a National NCAA Division III Record). His quick rebounding and agility netted him a career total of 822 points and 250 rebounds. Upon graduation, Tharp maintained a presence on the Beloit College basketball court; from 1991-1994, he was an assistant to Coach Bill Knapton and helped guide the Buccaneers to a 50-21 record and a Midwest Conference championship. In 1994, Tharp was hired as head coach at Lawrence University in Appleton, Wis. As his eighth season as the Viking leader started—and with a league title to his credit—he ranked third on the school’s all-time win list with 95 victories. John, his wife, Jennifer, and their three children make their home in Appleton, Wisconsin.
