The Craddock family is all about, well, family.
Spearheaded by brothers Ben and David Craddock, the latest tangible element of that happened today at the Pavilion, as the family name appeared on the court for the first time prior to Ole Miss' home date with Baylor, as part of the SEC/Big 12 Challenge.
Craddock Court is the floor to Ole Miss’ basketball home and another reminder of what the family does for the community.
The Craddocks own Craddock Oil Company and other properties that include convenience stores and restaurants throughout Mississippi and the surrounding area. The successful businesses allow them to give back and support many worthwhile endeavors.
Ole Miss has been important to the Craddocks for a long time, as Ben and David both graduated from there and met their wives in Oxford. Ben played football for the Rebels, and they both can be seen often at sporting events and connected functions with the university. They feel Ole Miss has given to them, so they want the ability to give back.
“Our passion for the school is so strong, and we’ve wanted to do something with the resources we have,” Ben Craddock said. God has been really good to us and blessed us through work and helping others. We wanted to be connected to this building. I’ve known Andy Kennedy since he was hired and he’s one of my closest friends. (Assistant coach Bill) Armstrong named his son Craddock. That’s how close we are. Having that bond with those guys and Matt Insell, as well is special.”
The timing worked out for all involved, and Ben and David wanted to complete this gift in honor of their parents, Ron and Nancy, who started Craddock Oil Company in 1979.
"We want to put a smile on their faces and also show them what we've been able to grow," Craddock said.
Ben traveled with the basketball team to the Virgin Islands earlier this season to finalize the agreement. Craddock and Ole Miss deputy athletics director Stephen Ponder turned a game program into the initial contract.
It’s the latest in a line of helping others and using their resources for positive things. Craddock Oil is an annual sponsor of Ole Miss’ Fellowship of Christian Athletes breakfast, and they participate in the Heart of David ministry that provides opportunities for children in inner cities.
The family, with the help of Exxon Mobil, has provided more than $300,000 to Mississippi elementary, middle and high schools. The grant program is delivered in $500 increments and started with 15 schools in Pike and Lawrence counties. Now it stretches throughout the state. Exxon provides the monetary funds, and the Craddocks choose the schools to help.
“We were raised to always give back,” Ben said. “It’s not about money if it’s your heart. My family is a very giving family, and we believe in this place. We believe in its people.
“We’re not just a name. We are people who care about individuals and giving back. It’s what you attach your name to. A lot of companies throw money, but they don’t touch it. We pick things that help our communities, and then we get involved. We want to touch and assist however we can.”
