MACOMB, Ill - Western Illinois University has selected Rod Burg as its representative for the 2026 Ohio Valley Conference "Hoops for Heroes" program, honoring his years of service to veterans and the local community.

Burg retired from NTN Bower in 2010 after 38 years with the company. Not long after, he began volunteering his time driving veterans to medical appointments in Iowa City, a role he continued for 14 years before retiring from that service in 2024.

He is a member of both the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and remains active in the Macomb community. Burg is also a member of the First Christian Church of Macomb, where he serves as a deacon and works on several committees. Each week, he helps stock the church's emergency food cupboard to support families in need.

The OVC "Hoops for Heroes" program was created by the conference's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee as a way to connect community service with the OVC Basketball Championship. Each school selects one military veteran or first responder from its area to be honored at the tournament in Evansville, with recognition taking place on the court before one of the games.

Western Illinois will also recognize Burg locally this weekend. Rod and his wife, Nita, will be honored Saturday during the regular-season home finale against Lindenwood University.

Rod and Nita are familiar faces at WIU athletic events, regularly attending football and basketball games. They also share a special appreciation for the Leatherneck women's basketball team.

Through his long-time dedication to veterans and continued service in the community, Burg represents the spirit of the OVC "Hoops for Heroes" program and the values of Western Illinois University.