University of Dayton Athletics

JIM PAXSON - Men's basketball - 1975-1979

Paxson, a 1979 graduate of the University of Dayton, is one of the most accomplished players in Flyer history. A three-time team MVP and USBWA All-American as a senior, Paxson is fifth in career scoring at Dayton with 1,945 points. Named to UD's All-Century Team, he is the only Flyer men's basketball player to be named both an All-American and an Academic All-American.  

Paxson went to play professionally on the Portland Trailblazers, being the 12th pick overall in the 1979 NBA Draft. He was an All-NBA Second Team member in 1983-84, a two-time All-Star (1982-83, 1983-84), and the first Blazer to score 10,000 points. Overall he played 11 seasons in the League with the Trail Blazers and Boston Celtics. 

Following his playing career, Paxson transitioned into NBA leadership roles, first with the Trail Blazers and then serving as Vice President of Basketball Operations and General Manager for the Cleveland Cavaliers from 1998 to 2005. He later worked as a consultant, scout and Director of Pro Personnel for the Chicago Bulls from 2006 to 2024.

Jim is currently the Senior Advisor for Basketball Operations for the Dayton Flyers.