Ashley Receives First Sharon Groves Award from Bulldog Konnect

Michael Ashle (middle) with the children of Sharon Groves, Michelle Groves (left) and Jeff Groves (right).

April 21, 2025

NASHVILLE (April 17, 2025) - In the 90s, Gatorade's "If I Could Be Like Mike" campaign featured Michael Jordan. At Fisk University, Michael Ashley has excelled on and off the court for three years, proving hard work is essential.

On Thursday in front of the Fisk community, his achievements earned him the first annual Sharon Groves Bulldog Konnect Scholarship Award. The award is named after the mother of former Fisk men's basketball star of the late 1980's Jeff Groves. Earlier this year, Mrs. Groves, a former nurse, passed away. This award is a way to keep her legacy going.

"The award came about through Bulldog Konnect," said Groves. "We are a bunch of former players that have the desire to give back. Part of our mission, as we try to expand, was to have a scholarship in the name of my mother. My mother was honored to have this award in her name."

Bulldog Konnect did a survey to determine who would be the best fit for the award. They talked to the athletic administration, professors, coaches, and others round campus. Groves said it was incredible to hear what everyone had to say about Ashley. In his opinion, the award was a no-brainer.

Groves' sentiments were shared by each of the speakers at the event. Including the director of athletics Valencia Jordan, the director of sports information Scott Wallace, Fisk women's basketball coach Victoria Crawford, Fisk Athletics Hall of Famer Renee Spencer, Ashley's assistant coach and former teammate Mekhi Yant, and athletic supporter Joelle Bowers.

Ashley concluded his career with over 1,000 points and 1,000 rebounds. During his three years at Fisk University, he played out of position. His statistics are cumulative from his time at Curry College in Boston, Staten Island University, and Fisk University. Ashley expressed his gratitude for the unwavering support he has received from the Fisk community.

"Coming from a school in Boston where I only had a few classmates that looked like me, it was a blessing to come to Fisk," said Ashley. "You all opened your arms to me. Fisk made me want to stay in school and be a better person. Mr. Groves and Bulldog Konnect have been great. My teammates and I really appreciate all they have done. To receive this award is a true blessing. I really appreciate my time here."

Ashley will return to Fisk next year for his master's in executive leadership. He plans to stay active in the gym and aims to play overseas. After playing basketball, he hopes to become a sports agent.