Lute Olson to receive 2007 Heritage Award

Even though Lute Olson isn’t currently on the sidelines for the University of Arizona, he is still one of the most respected and beloved figures in the state.

Olson, who has been on a leave of absence from the Wildcats’ basketball program since Nov. 4, is scheduled to receive the 2007 Heritage award from the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Since 1991, the Arizona Chamber has honored distinguished individuals whose accomplishments and commitment to Arizona are recognized not only within the state, but nationally and internationally, as well.

Olson has served as Arizona’s coach for 24 seasons. He has led the Wildcats to 22 consecutive NCAA Tournaments, 11 Pac-10 titles, four Final Four appearances and the 1997 national title.

The Wildcats also boast the nation’s second-best winning percentage over the past 19 seasons.

In 2002, Olson was selected for enshrinement into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

“Coach Olson has created a rich tradition of basketball excellence at the University of Arizona,” said President and CEO of the ACCI Glenn Hamer in a press release. “It is a tradition that many schools look to emulate but few are able to achieve. We are delighted to honor coach Olson with the 2007 Heritage Award.”

Previous Heritage Award recipients include Barry Goldwater, Jon Kyl, Bill Keane and Sandra Day O’Connor.

Olson will be recognized at the 2007 Heritage Award dinner on Friday, Nov. 30, at the Camelback Inn in Phoenix.

For more information on how to purchase a ticket or sponsor a table, please visit www.azchamber.com/heritage_dinner.html.

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