March Madness
JABO 2009 March Madness Run: Oxblood & Aventurine in Spring Release
The March Madness Run, executed on March 19, 2009, was a limited-edition production under the direction of Dave McCullough. It is notable for its heavy use of oxblood and aventurine, producing marbles with rich, layered swirls and sparkling inclusions. This run was part of JABO’s contract-era series and reflects the continued refinement of swirl artistry and glass chemistry during this period.
Historical Context
By early 2009, JABO had firmly entered its experimental phase, producing small-batch runs that emphasized collector appeal and technical innovation.
Visual Characteristics
Marbles from this run are typically 3/4" in diameter and exhibit a high concentration of oxblood and aventurine, often set against a white base glass. The swirl patterns are dynamic, with flame-like ribbons and layered color transitions that catch light dramatically.
• Size: 3/4" shooters
• Base Glass: White / Transparent
• Primary Colors: Oxblood, blue, green
• Additives: Heavy aventurine sparkle
• Nicknames: “Sun Light Sparklers” (informal, due to their brilliance in sunlight)
• Condition: Mint to Near Mint; examples rated Mint 9.0 are documented
Collector Appeal
The March Madness Run is considered rare and increasingly difficult to find. Boxed sets of six marbles were distributed, often featuring high-grade examples with strong swirl coverage and minimal blemishes. Collectors value this run for its concentrated use of oxblood and aventurine, as well as its place in the 2009 production timeline.
Due to its limited release and the quality of individual marbles, this run is often sought after by those building comprehensive JABO archives or specializing in swirl evolution. Examples have appeared on platforms such as WorthPoint, eBay, and Biblefreak, with prices reflecting their rarity and condition.
Notable Examples
• “Sun Light Sparklers” with dense aventurine and layered oxblood
• Boxed sets of six marbles with white base glass and flame-like swirls
• Individual Mint 9.0 examples sold through Biblefreak and private collectors
