Super Men: College Basketball's Impact on 53 Seasons of NFL's Super Bowl
College basketball fans shouldn't be assessed an unsportsmanlike-conduct penalty if the NFL isn't their favorite sport, but they should rush to hold on because following is more super stuff to digest while blitzed by enough notes, quotes and anecdotes to have one seeking a sedative when assessing Super Bowl 53 in Atlanta between the Los Angeles Rams and New England Patriots.
For what it's worth hoop-wise, did you know former NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue was a 6-5 forward who averaged 11.4 points and nine rebounds per game for Georgetown in three varsity seasons from 1959-60 through 1961-62? He led the Hoyas in rebounding as a sophomore (8.9 rpg) and junior (8.2 rpg) and was their second-leading rebounder as a senior captain. Well-rounded trivia buffs should also know that Tagliabue's predecessor, Pete Rozelle, was the basketball publicist for 1949 NIT champion San Francisco before orchestrating events leading to the Super Bowl becoming a national phenomenon.
The Super Bowl's link to college basketball is much more extensive than these commissioners and had more impact than unveiling of new commercials plus halftime entertainers. Actually, there are a striking number of ex-college hoopers who participated in the Super Bowl as players. In fact, the inaugural Super Bowl in 1967 featured six former four-year college varsity basketball players for schools currently classified at the NCAA Division I level: Bobby Bell, Reg Carolan, Len Dawson, Dave Robinson, Otis Taylor and Fuzzy Thurston.
Kneeling in deference to the 53rd anniversary of the Super Bowl, following are 53 questions tackling versatile players such as Bell, Carolan, Dawson, Peppers, Taylor and Thurston in this distinctive two-way athlete category that should surprise you with some of the marquee names. If you get them all correct before peeking at answers at the end of this gridiron quiz, then you boast inflated brainpower sufficiently omnipotent to know in advance what will transpire at halftime and which new commercials offer the most entertainment.
1. Name the three-time Pro Bowl quarterback with the Cincinnati Bengals who appeared in Super Bowl XVI following the 1981 season after finishing his career as the fifth-leading scorer in his college's history. The high school teammate of Kentucky All-American and All-Pro Dan Issel led Augustana (Ill.) in field-goal accuracy and free-throw shooting as a freshman and sophomore.
2. Name the linebacker who was one of only two first-year players on the Miami Dolphins' undefeated team in 1972 and was still with the franchise the next season when the Dolphins repeated as Super Bowl champions for a 32-2 two-year mark, the best ever in the NFL. He played briefly for Louisville's varsity basketball squad before Cardinals football coach Lee Corso persuaded him to concentrate on the gridiron.
3. Name the nine-time All-Pro linebacker who was with the Kansas City Chiefs for their Super Bowl IV winner after becoming the first African American to play basketball for Minnesota when he appeared in three games in the 1960-61 season.
4. Name the two-time Pro Bowl defensive end who appeared in Super Bowl III with the Baltimore Colts vs. the New York Jets after becoming a first-team selection as a basketball center for South Dakota in the All-North Central Conference when he averaged 7.8 points per game in 1952-53 and 11 points in 1953-54.
5. Name the first black starting quarterback in the NFL who was later converted to wide receiver and caught two passes to help the undefeated Miami Dolphins beat Minnesota in Super Bowl VIII after averaging 9.5 ppg and 3.6 rpg in 14 basketball games for Nebraska-Omaha in 1964-65.
6. Name the four-time Pro Bowl wide receiver who caught five passes for 83 yards in Super Bowl XV for the Philadelphia Eagles after he was the top rebounder for two seasons with Southern (La.). He established an NFL record for most consecutive games with a pass reception (127).
7. Name the 1963 Pro Bowl selection who participated in Super Bowl I as a defensive end with the Kansas City Chiefs after the 6-6, 235-pounder played three varsity seasons with Idaho's basketball team, averaging four points and 4.7 rebounds per game.
8. Name the 1994 first-round draft choice who was a defensive end on the Dallas Cowboys' last Super Bowl team after playing nine games during the 1992-93 season for Arizona State's hoop squad that was decimated with injuries.
9. Name the Pro Bowl selection who appeared in Super Bowl XXXI with the New England Patriots after the 6-5, 245-pounder played basketball one season for Livingstone (N.C.). He held the NFL single-season record for most receptions by a tight end with 96 in 1994.
10. Name the four-year starter who set school career records for total offense, passing yards and rushing yards by a quarterback plus rushing touchdowns by a QB. Most Outstanding Player in the 2002 Peach Bowl as a quarterback was activated for Super Bowl XXXVII as a rookie with the Oakland Raiders before succeeding all-time great Tim Brown as a starting wide receiver. He was North Carolina's leader in assists during 2000-01 when he directed the Tar Heels to a basketball No. 1 ranking and an 18-game winning streak.
11. Name the Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs who was MVP in Super Bowl IV after playing in two basketball games as a 6-0, 180-pound guard for Purdue in the 1956-57 campaign.
12. Name the defensive left end on Miami's undefeated team in 1972 who played in four Super Bowls with the Dolphins after the 6-6, 220-pound basketball center finished his four-season career at Central College as the Pella, Iowa-based school's all-time leading scorer (15.5 ppg) and rebounder (12.4 rpg). He grabbed a school-record 29 rebounds in a game his senior season (1970-71).
13. Name the Hall of Fame tight end who played in two Super Bowls with the Dallas Cowboys, catching a TD pass to cap the scoring in Super Bowl VI, before coaching the Super Bowl-winning Chicago Bears following the 1985 season after the 6-2, 205-pound forward averaged 2.8 points and 2.6 rebounds per game in two seasons with the Pittsburgh Panthers.
14. Name the defensive back for the Baltimore Colts' Super Bowl V champion who led the NFL in kickoff return average (35.4) in 1970 after playing basketball for Maryland-Eastern Shore.
15. Name the prominent ex-NFL coach who was a defensive back for the Pittsburgh Steelers' Super Bowl XIII champion after averaging 2.6 ppg in 16 basketball contests with the Minnesota Gophers in 1973-74 under coach Bill Musselman.
16. Name the starting middle linebacker for a team in two of three Super Bowls in one stretch who started two games at point guard for St. Francis (Pa.) as a freshman in 1993-94 when he averaged three points per game. After transferring back home to Cleveland, the 5-10 dynamo collected 109 points and 52 rebounds in 27 games for John Carroll before quitting basketball midway through the 1995-96 campaign to concentrate on football.
17. Name the Super Bowl X tight end for the Dallas Cowboys after leading Amherst (Mass.) in scoring and rebounding in 1970-71.
18. Name the five-time Pro Bowl defensive back with the Dallas Cowboys who played in two Super Bowls after finishing his three-year varsity career as Utah State's all-time leading scorer and rebounder. The 6-4 forward scored 46 points in a game against New Mexico en route to leading the Aggies in scoring with 21.2 points per game in 1959-60 (34th in the nation), 20.3 in 1960-61 (57th) and 25.6 in 1961-62 (13th).
19. Name the Hall of Fame quarterback who played in three Super Bowls with the Miami Dolphins after he was a 6-1, 185-pound sophomore guard in 1964-65 when scoring 22 points in 16 games in his only varsity basketball season for Purdue.
20. Name the 12-year veteran safety who played in Super Bowl IV with the Minnesota Vikings after averaging four points and 3.5 rebounds per game in 10 contests for Wisconsin's basketball team in 1958-59.
21. Name the wide receiver who caught a 34-yard touchdown pass from Roger Staubach for the Dallas Cowboys' final touchdown in a 21-17 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Super Bowl X after he averaged 12.4 points and 7.3 rebounds per game in three varsity seasons (1972-73 through 1974-75) for Austin Peay. It was the only pass reception in his NFL career. The 6-4, 215-pound forward averaged seven points and seven rebounds per game in four NCAA Tournament contests in 1973 and 1974 as a teammate of folk hero James "Fly" Williams.
22. Name the third-round draft choice of the Miami Dolphins in 1998 who backed up MVP Ray Lewis as a linebacker for the Baltimore Ravens in Super Bowl XXXV after being a member of Cincinnati's basketball team for the first month of 1997-98 campaign.
23. Name the three-time Pro Bowl defensive lineman who appeared in three Super Bowls with the Dallas Cowboys after the 6-8, 230-pound backup post player averaged 1.7 points and 2.6 rebounds for Tennessee State in his freshman and sophomore seasons (1969-70 and 1970-71).
24. Name the Baltimore Ravens wide receiver who caught a 56-yard touchdown pass from Joe Flacco and opened the second half with a 108-yard kickoff return for a TD in a 34-31 win against the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XLVII after the Southeastern Louisiana track transfer was a part-time hoop starter for Lane (Tenn.), averaging 3.4 ppg and 3.7 rpg in 2004-05 and 2005-06.
25. Name the 16-year quarterback who started Super Bowl VII for the Washington Redskins after scoring eight points in six games for coach John Wooden's 1959-60 UCLA basketball team.
26. Name the two-time Pro Bowl cornerback who participated in Super Bowl XVII with the Washington Redskins after the 6-4, 190-pound forward averaged 13.4 points and 6.6 rebounds per game for San Diego State in 1969-70 and 1970-71. He was the Aztecs' second-leading scorer (15.2 ppg) and rebounder (7.6 rpg) as a junior.
27. Name the 10-time Pro Bowl defensive back who competed in four Super Bowls after collecting nine assists, four points and three rebounds in six games for Southern California's basketball squad as a junior in 1979-80.
28. Name the 11-year defensive lineman who played in Super Bowl XIII for the Minnesota Vikings after averaging 12.3 ppg with Michigan Tech in 1962-63.
29. Name the Minnesota Vikings defensive back who let former Prairie View basketball player Otis Taylor (Kansas City Chiefs) elude him for a long touchdown in Super Bowl IV after being a basketball teammate of Utah State legend Wayne Estes in 1964-65.
30. Name the NFL Hall of Fame tight end who caught a 75-yard touchdown pass from Hall of Famer Johnny Unitas in Super Bowl V after collecting 28 points and 28 rebounds in six basketball games with Syracuse in 1960-61.
31. Name the defensive end who scored six touchdowns in his 14-year NFL career and tackled John Elway of the Denver Broncos for a safety in the New York Giants' Super Bowl XXI victory following the 1986 season after the 6-5, 225-pound forward-center averaged just over 10 points and 10 rebounds per game for Oregon's freshman squad in 1971-72. He played briefly for the Ducks' varsity basketball team the next season.
32. Name the tight end who played in four Super Bowls with the Buffalo Bills after he was the starting center for Jacksonville State's 1985 NCAA Division II championship team. He led the Gulf South Conference in rebounding each of his first three seasons and finished runner-up in that category as a senior.
33. Name the defensive lineman in Super Bowl XI for the Oakland Raiders who played basketball in the 1975 NAIA Tournament for Morningside (Iowa).
34. Name the quarterback who set an NFL record with 24 consecutive completions over a two-game span in 2004 before guiding the Philadelphia Eagles to Super Bowl XXXIX the next year. He collected a career-high 10 points and six rebounds and made two clinching free throws with 2.7 seconds remaining in a 77-74 victory over Georgetown in 1997 before Syracuse appeared in the NIT. He scored two points in two 1996 NCAA Tournament games for the Orangemen's national runner-up.
35. Name the tight end who played in four Super Bowls with the Buffalo Bills, catching a TD pass in Super Bowl XXVI, after the 6-8, 235-pound center for the basketball squad at Wabash (Ind.) averaged 19.2 ppg and 11.4 rpg in four varsity seasons. He set NCAA Division III field-goal shooting records for a single season (75.3% in 1981-82 as a senior) and career (72.4). He collected 45 points and 13 rebounds in the 1982 championship game, scoring a Division III Tournament record 129 points in five games and earning tourney outstanding player honors.
36. Name the Pro Bowl offensive tackle who appeared in three consecutive Super Bowls with the Miami Dolphins after leading Lamar in rebounding as a senior with 12.6 per game in 1968-69.
37. Name the valuable addition to Super Bowl XXXIX-bound Philadelphia Eagles in 2004 who had nine pass receptions for 122 yards against the New England Patriots after setting an NFL single-game record with 20 receptions for the San Francisco 49ers against the Chicago Bears in 2000. He collected 57 points and 49 rebounds in 38 games (four starts) for UT-Chattanooga's basketball squad in three seasons from 1993-94 through 1995-96.
38. Name the 14-year running back who played in five Super Bowls, catching more passes (five) than anyone in Super Bowls X and XII, after the guard-forward averaged 8.7 points and 6 rebounds per game as a senior in 1966-67 to finish his three-year Illinois varsity career with 5.2 ppg and 3.6 rpg.
39. Name the 2002 NFL defensive rookie of the year for the Carolina Panthers who appeared in Super Bowl XXXVIII the next season after being a member of North Carolina's 2000 Final Four squad. He started both NCAA Tournament games for the Tar Heels in 2001, including his first double-double (10 rebounds and career-high 21 points against Penn State).
40. Name the wide receiver who made a two-point conversion on a run for the Pittsburgh Steelers in Super Bowl XIV and threw a flea flicker touchdown pass in Super Bowl XX after collecting 16 points and 11 assists in 11 games for Indiana's 1999 NCAA Tournament team, including two points in each of the Hoosiers' playoff contests (against George Washington and St. John's).
41. Name the four-time Pro Bowl wide receiver who scored the first touchdown at Super Bowl XXXI for the Green Bay Packers after he was a 6-1, 185-pound backup guard in basketball for Michigan State in two seasons (1985-86 and 1987-88).
42. Name the Hall of Fame offensive tackle who participated in two Super Bowls (XI and XV) with the Oakland Raiders after he was a two-year basketball letterman as a 6-5, 265-pound center for Maryland State College (now called Maryland-Eastern Shore).
43. Name the Denver Broncos wide receiver who had a game-high 152 receiving yards (including 80-yard touchdown pass from John Elway) in Super Bowl XXXIII after earning Missouri Southern State hoops letter as sophomore in 1990-91.
44. Name an offensive tackle for the Super Bowl XVII champion Washington Redskins after the strike-shortened 1982 campaign who averaged 2.9 ppg and 3.7 rpg while shooting 50.5% from the floor with Columbia in 1968-69 and 1969-70.
45. Name the Hall of Fame quarterback who guided the Dallas Cowboys to four Super Bowls after averaging 9.3 points per game for the 1961-62 Navy plebe (freshman) basketball team. The 6-2, 190-pound forward scored five points in four games for the Midshipmen varsity squad the next season. He was MVP in Super Bowl VI.
46. Name the defensive back for the Baltimore Colts who appeared in two Super Bowls (III and V) after playing basketball for Maryland-Eastern Shore.
47. Name the wide receiver who played in two Super Bowls with the Kansas City Chiefs, catching 10 passes for 128 yards and a touchdown, after he was a backup small forward in the Prairie View A&M era following the school's glory years with pro basketball standout Zelmo Beaty.
48. Name the linebacker who registered two sacks and five solo tackles in Super Bowl XLII when the New England Patriots lost against New York Giants for first defeat of season after he averaged 2.9 ppg and 1.9 rpg as reserve forward for Southern Mississippi in 1996-97 and 1997-98.
49. Name the Denver Broncos tight end who caught four passes from Peyton Manning in Super Bowl XLVIII after being Portland State's second-leading rebounder in 2008-09 and 2009-10.
50. Name the offensive guard with the Green Bay Packers who participated in the first two Super Bowls after originally enrolling at Valparaiso on a basketball scholarship. He averaged 1.5 points per game in eight contests as a freshman with Valpo in 1951-52 before concentrating on football.
51. Name the Pro Bowl punter who appeared in two Super Bowls with the Dallas Cowboys after averaging 14.5 points and 8.3 rebounds as a sophomore, 17.3 points and eight rebounds as a junior and 22.1 points and 8.7 rebounds as a senior for Tennessee. The 6-4, 210-pound forward scored 50 points against LSU as a senior on his way to becoming SEC player of the year in 1967.
52. Name the defensive end for the Denver Broncos' back-to-back Super Bowl champions (XXXII and XXXIII) who registered one steal while playing in one minute of one Big Eight Conference basketball game for Colorado in 1989-90.
53. Name the offensive tackle who was an NFL All-Pro six straight seasons in the 1970s and played in the Super Bowl five times that decade with the Dallas Cowboys after earning All-SIAC basketball recognition for Fort Valley State (Ga.).
ANSWERS TO 53 COLLEGE BASKETBALL-IMPACTING SUPER BOWL TRIVIA QUESTIONS
1. Ken Anderson; 2. Larry Ball; 3. Bobby Bell; 4. Ordell Braase; 5. Marlin Briscoe; 6. Harold Carmichael; 7. Reg Carolan; 8. Shante Carver; 9. Ben Coates; 10. Ronald Curry; 11. Len Dawson; 12. Vern Den Herder; 13. Mike Ditka; 14. Jim Duncan; 15. Tony Dungy; 16. London Fletcher; 17. Jean Fugett; 18. Cornell Green; 19. Bob Griese; 20. Dale Hackbart; 21. Percy Howard; 22. Brad Jackson; 23. Ed "Too Tall" Jones; 24. Jacoby Jones; 25. Billy Kilmer; 26. Joe Lavender; 27. Ronnie Lott; 28. Bob Lurtsema; 29. Earsell Mackbee; 30. John Mackey; 31. George Martin; 32. Keith McKeller; 33. Herb McMath; 34. Donovan McNabb; 35. Pete Metzelaars; 36. Wayne Moore; 37. Terrell Owens; 38. Preston Pearson; 39. Julius Peppers; 40. Antwaan Randle El; 41. Andre Rison; 42. Art Shell; 43. Rod Smith; 44. George Starke; 45. Roger Staubach; 46. Charlie Stukes; 47. Otis Taylor; 48. Adalius Thomas; 49. Julius Thomas; 50. Fuzzy Thurston; 51. Ron Widby; 52. Alfred Williams; 53. Rayfield Wright.
Only One NFL Pro Bowl Failed to Have College Basketball Representation
Houston Texans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins opted out of Pro Bowl because of a shoulder injury sustained in wild-card playoff contest after tying NFL single-season record for pass receptions with 115. When Hopkins (Clemson) was named to regal roster, there remained only one Pro Bowl (following 1985 season) when there wasn't at least one gridiron participant who previously played college basketball.
An average of eight ex-college cagers annually participated the first decade of the event in the 1950s with a high of 10 following the 1959 campaign. Following is an alphabetical list of Pro Bowlers who previously played hoops at varsity level for a four-year college:
| NFL Pro Bowl Selection | Pos. | NFL Team(s) | 4-Year Hoop College(s) | Pro Bowl Season(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ken Anderson | QB | Cincinnati Bengals | Augustana (Ill.) | 1975-76-81-82 |
| Doug Atkins | RDE | Chicago Bears | Tennessee | 1957-58-59-60-61-62-63-65 |
| Al Baker | RDE | Detroit Lions | Colorado State | 1978-79-80 |
| Erich Barnes | RDH | Chicago Bears/New York Giants/Cleveland Browns | Purdue | 1959-61-62-63-64-68 |
| Connor Barwin | OLB | Philadelphia Eagles | Cincinnati | 2014 |
| Sammy Baugh | QB | Washington Redskins | Texas Christian | 1951 |
| Bobby Bell | LLB | Kansas City Chiefs | Minnesota | 1970-71-72 |
| Martellus Bennett | TE | Chicago Bears | Texas A&M | 2014 |
| Cloyce Box | E | Detroit Lions | West Texas A&M | 1950 and 1952 |
| Ordell Braase | RDE | Baltimore Colts | South Dakota | 1966 and 1967 |
| Pete Brewster | LE | Cleveland Browns | Purdue | 1955 and 1956 |
| Marlin Briscoe | WR | Buffalo Bills | Nebraska-Omaha | 1970 |
| Jim Brown | FB | Cleveland Browns | Syracuse | 1957-58-59-60-61-62-63-64-65 |
| Junious "Buck" Buchanan | RDT | Kansas City Chiefs | Grambling | 1970 and 1971 |
| Jordan Cameron | TE | Cleveland Browns | Brigham Young/Southern California | 2013 |
| Harold Carmichael | WR | Philadelphia Eagles | Southern (La.) | 1973-78-79-80 |
| Fred Carr | RLB | Green Bay Packers | Texas Western | 1970-72-75 |
| John Carson | LE | Washington Redskins | Georgia | 1957 |
| Rick Casares | FB | Chicago Bears | Florida | 1955-56-57-58-59 |
| Chris Chambers | WR | Miami Dolphins | Wisconsin | 2005 |
| Lynn Chandnois | RH | Pittsburgh Steelers | Michigan State | 1952 and 1953 |
| Ben Coates | TE | New England Patriots | Livingstone (N.C.) | 1994-95-98 |
| George Connor | LT | Chicago Bears | Holy Cross/Notre Dame | 1950-51-52-53 |
| Charley Cowan | RT | Los Angeles Rams | New Mexico Highlands | 1968-69-70 |
| Glenn Davis | LH | Los Angeles Rams | Army | 1950 |
| Len Dawson | QB | Kansas City Chiefs | Purdue | 1971 |
| Mike Ditka | TE | Chicago Bears | Pittsburgh | 1961-62-63-64-65 |
| Jim Finks | QB | Pittsburgh Steelers | Tulsa | 1952 |
| London Fletcher | LB | Washington Redskins | St. Francis (Pa.)/John Carroll (Ohio) | 2009-10-11-12 |
| Len Ford | DE | Cleveland Browns | Morgan State | 1951-52-53-54 |
| Jean Fugett | TE | Washington Redskins | Amherst (Mass.) | 1977 |
| Antonio Gates | TE | San Diego Chargers | Eastern Michigan/Kent State | 2004-05-06-07-08-09-10-11 |
| Tony Gonzalez | TE | Kansas City Chiefs/Atlanta Falcons | California | 1999 and 2000-01-02-03-04-05-06-07-08-10-11-12-13 |
| Jimmy Graham | TE | New Orleans Saints/Seattle Seahawks | Miami (Fla.) | 2011-13-14-16-17 |
| Otto Graham | QB | Cleveland Browns | Northwestern | 1950-51-52-53-54 |
| Cornell Green | DB | Dallas Cowboys | Utah State | 1965-66-67-71-72 |
| Bob Griese | QB | Miami Dolphins | Purdue | 1970-71-73-74-77-78 |
| Todd Heap | TE | Baltimore Ravens | Arizona State | 2002 and 2003 |
| Harlon Hill | LE | Chicago Bears | Florence State (Ala.) | 1954-55-56 |
| Elroy "Crazy Legs" Hirsch | RE | Los Angeles Rams | Michigan | 1951-52-53 |
| DeAndre Hopkins | WR | Houston Texans | Clemson | 2015-17-18 |
| Paul Hornung | LH | Green Bay Packers | Notre Dame | 1959 and 1960 |
| Vincent Jackson | WR | San Diego Chargers/Tampa Bay Buccaneers | Northern Colorado | 2009-11-12 |
| Dave Jennings | P | New York Giants | St. Lawrence (N.Y.) | 1978-79-80-82 |
| Brad Johnson | QB | Washington Redskins | Florida State | 1999, 2000 and 2002 |
| John Henry Johnson | RB | San Francisco 49ers/Pittsburgh Steelers | Saint Mary's | 1954-62-63-64 |
| Johnny Johnson | RB | Phoenix Suns | San Jose State | 1990 |
| Ed "Too Tall" Jones | LDE | Dallas Cowboys | Tennessee State | 1981-82-83 |
| Jacoby Jones | KR | Baltimore Ravens | Lane (Tenn.) | 2012 |
| Joe Kapp | QB | Minnesota Vikings | California | 1969 |
| Billy Kilmer | QB | Washington Redskins | UCLA | 1972 |
| Ron Kramer | TE | Green Bay Packers | Michigan | 1962 |
| Gary Larsen | DT | Minnesota Vikings | Concordia (Minn.) | 1969 and 1970 |
| Johnny Lattner | RH | Pittsburgh Steelers | Notre Dame | 1954 |
| Joe Lavender | RCB | Washington Redskins | San Diego State | 1979 and 1980 |
| Rolland Lawrence | CB | Atlanta Falcons | Tabor (Kan.) | 1977 |
| Bobby Layne | QB | Detroit Lions/Pittsburgh Steelers | Texas | 1951-52-53-56-58-59 |
| Ronnie Lott | DB | San Francisco 49ers | Southern California | 1981-82-83-84-86-87-88-89-90-91 |
| Johnny Lujack | QB | Chicago Bears | Notre Dame | 1950 and 1951 |
| Lamar Lundy | LDE | Los Angeles Rams | Purdue | 1959 |
| John Mackey | TE | Baltimore Colts | Syracuse | 1963-65-66-67-68 |
| Jack "Cy" McClairen | E | Pittsburgh Steelers | Bethune-Cookman | 1957 |
| Donovan McNabb | QB | Philadelphia Eagles | Syracuse | 2000-01-02-03-04-09 |
| Zeke Moore | CB | Houston Oilers | Lincoln (Mo.) | 1969 and 1970 |
| Elbie Nickel | RE | Pittsburgh Steelers | Cincinnati | 1952-53-56 |
| Karl Noonan | SE | Miami Dolphins | Iowa | 1968 |
| Terrell Owens | WR | San Francisco 49ers/Dallas Cowboys | UT-Chattanooga | 2000-01-02-03-04-07 |
| Julius Peppers | DE-LB | Carolina Panthers/Chicago Bears/Green Bay Packers | North Carolina | 2004-05-06-08-09-10-11-12-15 |
| Sonny Randle | WR | St. Louis Cardinals | Virginia | 1960-61-62-65 |
| Garet "Jerry" Reichow | WR | Minnesota Vikings | Iowa | 1961 |
| Andre Rison | WR | Atlanta Falcons/Kansas City Chiefs | Michigan State | 1990-91-92-93-97 |
| Dave Robinson | LB | Green Bay Packers | Penn State | 1966-67-69 |
| Otto Schnellbacher | RS | New York Giants | Kansas | 1950 and 1951 |
| Tom Scott | LDE | Philadelphia Eagles | Virginia | 1957 and 1958 |
| Joe Senser | TE | Minnesota Vikings | West Chester (Pa.) State | 1981 |
| Bob Shaw | E | Chicago Cardinals | Ohio State | 1950 |
| Art Shell | LT | Oakland Raiders | Maryland-Eastern Shore | 1973-74-75-76-77 |
| Del Shofner | RH-SE | Los Angeles Rams/New York Giants | Baylor | 1958-59-61-62-63 |
| Rod Smith | WR | Denver Broncos | Missouri Southern State | 2000-01-05 |
| Norm Snead | QB | Washington Redskins/Philadelphia Eagles/New York Giants | Wake Forest | 1962-63-65-72 |
| Ed Sprinkle | DE | Chicago Bears | Hardin-Simmons (Tex.) | 1950-51-52-54 |
| Roger Staubach | QB | Dallas Cowboys | Navy | 1971-75-76-77-78-79 |
| Greg Stemrick | CB | Houston Oilers | Colorado State | 1980 |
| Hugh "Bones" Taylor | LE | Washington Redskins | Tulane/Oklahoma City | 1952 and 1954 |
| Jason Taylor | RDE | Miami Dolphins | Akron | 2000-02-04-05-06-07 |
| Otis Taylor | WR | Kansas City Chiefs | Prairie View A&M | 1971 and 1972 |
| Adalius Thomas | LB | Baltimore Ravens | Southern Mississippi | 2003 and 2006 |
| John Thomas | LG | San Francisco 49ers | Pacific | 1966 |
| Julius Thomas | TE | Denver Broncos | Portland State | 2013 and 2014 |
| Emlen Tunnell | DB | New York Giants | Toledo | 1950-51-52-53-54-55-56-57-59 |
| Brad Van Pelt | LLB | New York Giants | Michigan State | 1976-77-78-79-80 |
| Doak Walker | LH | Detroit Lions | Southern Methodist | 1950-51-53-54-55 |
| Ron Widby | P | Dallas Cowboys | Tennessee | 1971 |
| Norm Willey | RDE | Philadelphia Eagles | Marshall | 1954 and 1955 |
| Alfred Williams | RDE | Denver Broncos | Colorado | 1996 |
| Billy Wilson | RE | San Francisco 49ers | San Jose State | 1954-55-56-57-58-59 |
| Rayfield Wright | RT | Dallas Cowboys | Fort Valley State (Ga.) | 1971-72-73-74-75-76 |
Picture Perfect: Which School Will Supply 13th Team With Undefeated Mark?
"We will either find a way or make one." - Hannibal, Carthaginian military commander
UCLA, in a stellar 10-year stretch from 1963-64 through 1972-73 ruling the scene much like Hannibal, accounted for four of only 12 squads to go undefeated since the start of national tournament postseason competition in the late 1930s. Kentucky came close to becoming #13 four years ago before bowing against Wisconsin in the national semifinals.
UK was soundly whipped by undefeated LIU in 1938-39 prior to the Wildcats going unbeaten themselves 15 years later. The average number of defeats the previous year for the first 12 unbeaten teams was five. The only time in major-college history two undefeated major colleges met in a national postseason tournament was the 1939 NIT final between Loyola of Chicago and Long Island University. LIU (23-0) defeated Loyola (21-1), 44-32.
In a seven-year span, all-time greats Lew Alcindor (UCLA in 1966-67), Bill Walton (UCLA in 1971-72) and David Thompson (North Carolina State in 1972-73) weren't freshmen but they were in their first season of varsity eligibility when leading their unbeaten teams in scoring. Alcindor (29 ppg), Lennie Rosenbluth (28 ppg with North Carolina in 1956-57) and Thompson (24.7 ppg) tallied the three highest-scoring averages among these undefeated squads.
Each of the dozen unbeaten major universities had at least one outing decided by fewer than eight points. Following are the schedules and team statistics for the 12 squads, including the last one to achieve the feat in 1975-76 (Indiana won five regular-season games by fewer than five points or in overtime), to go undefeated since the start of national tournament postseason competition:
Long Island (23-0 in 1938-39)
Coach: Clair Bee (eighth of 18 seasons with Blackbirds)
| 1938-39 LIU Opponents | Score | LIU's High Scorer |
|---|---|---|
| Newark University (N.J.) | 64-14 | George Newman 14 |
| Panzer College | 41-35 | Daniel Kaplowitz 15 |
| Princeton/Seminary | 82-37 | John Bromberg/Irv Torgoff 10 |
| McGill University (Quebec) | 77-39 | Irv Torgoff 12 |
| Montclair Teachers College (N.J.) | 63-40 | Irv Torgoff 10 |
| East Stroudsburg Teachers (Pa.) | 63-33 | John Bromberg 14 |
| Southern California | 33-18 | Daniel Kaplowitz 12 |
| Kentucky | 52-34 | John Bromberg 12 |
| Marquette | 41-34 | Arthur Hillhouse 14 |
| New York Athletic Club | 64-43 | Arthur Hillhouse 15 |
| Toledo | 46-39 | Irv Torgoff 18 |
| Geneva College (Pa.) | 48-39 | Irv Torgoff 15 |
| Duquesne | 48-31 | John Bromberg 13 |
| Scranton (Pa.) | 65-53 | Daniel Kaplowitz 16 |
| Canisius | 62-50 | Myron Sewitch 15 |
| St. Francis (N.Y.) | 61-20 | Ossie Schechtman 13 |
| St. Bonaventure | 70-31 | Irv Torgoff 12 |
| University of Baltimore | 52-34 | Daniel Kaplowitz 9 |
| John Marshall College | 65-25 | Irv Torgoff 11 |
| at La Salle | 28-21 | Daniel Kaplowitz 7 |
| New Mexico State (NIT) | 52-45 | Irv Torgoff 14 |
| Bradley (NIT) | 36-32 | John Bromberg 12 |
| Loyola of Chicago (NIT) | 44-32 | Irv Torgoff 12 |
NOTES: La Salle game technically played on a neutral court (Philadelphia Convention Hall). . . . NIT games played at Madison Square Garden.
INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS FOR LIU REGULARS
| Player | Pos. | Class | G. | PPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Irv Torgoff | F | Sr. | 23 | 9.5 |
| Daniel Kaplowitz | F | Sr. | 23 | 8.1 |
| *Arthur Hillhouse | C | Sr. | 12 | 7.1 |
| John Bromberg | G | Sr. | 23 | 6.6 |
| Oscar "Ossie" Schechtman | G | Soph. | 22 | 4.8 |
| Seymour "Cy" Lobello | C | Soph. | 22 | 4.4 |
| **Dolly King | C | Soph. | 10 | 4.0 |
| Myron Sewitch | C | Sr. | 21 | 3.9 |
| Solomon Schwartz | G | Soph. | 22 | 3.8 |
| George Newman | G | Sr. | 23 | 3.5 |
| Joseph Shelly | G | Soph. | 20 | 3.5 |
| Irving Zeitlin | G | Soph. | 18 | 1.7 |
| Maxwell Sharf | G-F | Soph. | 16 | 1.4 |
*Hillhouse completed eligibility at the end of the first semester.
**King became eligible at the start of the second semester.
Seton Hall (19-0 in 1939-40)
Coach: John "Honey" Russell (fourth of 18 seasons with Pirates)
| 1939-40 Seton Hall Opponents | Date | Score | Pirates High Scorer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alumni | D8 | 45-29 | Nick Parpan 12 |
| Mount St. Mary's | D18 | 58-32 | Ed Sadowski 13 |
| Tulane | D20 | 53-25 | Bob Davies 9 |
| Florida | D28 | 43-41 | Bob Davies/Ed Sadowski 13 |
| William & Mary | J6 | 51-35 | Ed Sadowski 17 |
| at Scranton | J12 | 48-32 | Ed Sadowski 17 |
| Becker | J17 | 69-29 | Ed Sadowski 14 |
| at Kutztown (Pa.) | J24 | 42-34 | Ed Sadowski 15 |
| Loyola (Md.) | F2 | 50-40 | Ed Sadowski 13 |
| at St. Peter's | F3 | 55-27 | Bernie Coyle 13 |
| at Brooklyn | F5 | 51-34 | Bob Fischer 13 |
| Rider | F9 | 44-32 | Bob Davies/John Ruthenberg 8 |
| St. Francis (Pa.) | F14 | 48-36 | Bob Davies 17 |
| St. Bonaventure | F17 | 46-41 | Bob Davies 19 |
| Kutztown (Pa.) | F21 | 53-33 | Bob Davies 15 |
| Canisius | F23 | 52-46 | Bob Davies 17 |
| Catholic (D.C.) | F26 | 53-27 | Edward Ryan 13 |
| Brooklyn | F28 | 43-41 | Frank Delany 16 |
| Scranton (Pa.) | M1 | 68-39 | Bob Davies 16 |
NOTE: Seton Hall played its home games at five different arenas - East Orange High School, Elizabeth Armory, Orange Armory, Orange High School and Dickinson High School (Jersey City).
INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS FOR SETON HALL REGULARS
| Player | Pos. | Class | G. | PPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ed Sadowski* | C | Sr. | 9 | 12.2 |
| Bob Davies | F | Soph. | 18 | 11.8 |
| Bob Fischer | F | Soph. | 18 | 4.9 |
| John Ruthenberg | G-C | Soph. | 19 | 4.7 |
| Bob Holm | G | Soph. | 17 | 4.2 |
| Frank Delany | G-F | Sr. | 19 | 3.8 |
| Bernie Coyle | G-F | Sr. | 18 | 3.7 |
| Nick Parpan | G-F | Jr. | 14 | 3.4 |
| Ken Pine | C | Soph. | 16 | 3.2 |
| Ray Studwell | F-G | Soph. | 18 | 1.2 |
*Sadowski missed the second half of the season because of a broken kneecap.
Army/U.S. Military Academy (15-0 in winter of 1944)
Coach: Ed Kelleher (first of two seasons with Cadets)
| 1943-44 Army Opponents | Score | Army's High Scorer |
|---|---|---|
| Swarthmore (Pa.) | 80-29 | Bob Faas 20 |
| Colgate | 69-44 | Dale Hall 18 |
| St. John's | 49-36 | Dale Hall 21 |
| at Columbia | 55-37 | Dale Hall 17 |
| Penn State | 49-38 | Dale Hall 14 |
| Coast Guard | 55-37 | Doug Kenna 11 |
| West Virginia | 58-31 | Dale Hall 18 |
| at Rochester (N.Y.) | 57-43 | Dale Hall 23 |
| Pittsburgh | 66-32 | Ed Christl 16 |
| Hobart (N.Y.) | 69-36 | Dale Hall/Doug Kenna 20 |
| Pennsylvania | 55-38 | Dale Hall 18 |
| Villanova | 34-22 | Dale Hall 23 |
| New York University | 46-36 | Dale Hall 18 |
| Maryland | 85-22 | Dale Hall 32 |
| Navy | 47-40 | Doug Kenna 17 |
INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS FOR ARMY REGULARS
| Player | Pos. | Class | G. | PPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dale Hall | F | Jr. | 15 | 18.2 |
| Doug Kenna | G | Jr. | 15 | 10.1 |
| Ed Christl | C | Sr. | 12 | 8.3 |
| Bob Faas | F | Sr. | 15 | 7.1 |
| Bill Ekberg | C | Jr. | 15 | 4.7 |
| Jack Hennessey | G | Sr. | 15 | 1.7 |
Kentucky (25-0 in 1953-54)
Coach: Adolph Rupp (24th of 41 seasons with Wildcats)
| 1953-54 UK Opponents | Date | Score | UK's High Scorer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temple | D5 | 86-59 | Cliff Hagan 51 |
| at Xavier | D12 | 81-66 | Frank Ramsey 27 |
| Wake Forest | D14 | 101-69 | Cliff Hagan 18 |
| at St. Louis | D18 | 71-59 | Frank Ramsey 21 |
| Duke | D21 | 85-69 | Cliff Hagan 27 |
| La Salle | D22 | 73-60 | Cliff Hagan 28 |
| Minnesota | D28 | 74-59 | Frank Ramsey 23 |
| Xavier | J4 | 77-71 | Cliff Hagan 20 |
| Georgia Tech | J9 | 105-53 | Cliff Hagan 34 |
| DePaul | J11 | 81-63 | Cliff Hagan/Frank Ramsey 22 |
| Tulane | J16 | 94-43 | Frank Ramsey 26 |
| at Tennessee | J23 | 97-71 | Frank Ramsey 37 |
| at Vanderbilt | J30 | 85-63 | Frank Ramsey 24 |
| Georgia Tech* | F2 | 99-48 | Cliff Hagan 23 |
| Georgia | F4 | 106-55 | Frank Ramsey 29 |
| Georgia* | F6 | 100-68 | Cliff Hagan 29 |
| at Florida | F8 | 97-55 | Cliff Hagan 22 |
| Mississippi | F13 | 88-62 | Cliff Hagan 38 |
| Mississippi State | F15 | 81-49 | Cliff Hagan 26 |
| Tennessee | F18 | 90-63 | Cliff Hagan 24 |
| at DePaul | F20 | 76-61 | Cliff Hagan 29 |
| Vanderbilt | F22 | 100-64 | Cliff Hagan 22 |
| Auburn* | F27 | 109-79 | Frank Ramsey 28 |
| at Alabama | M1 | 68-43 | Cliff Hagan 24 |
| Louisiana State* (SEC Playoff) | M9 | 63-56 | Frank Ramsey 30 |
*Neutral court games.
INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS FOR KENTUCKY REGULARS
| Player | Pos. | Class | G. | FG% | FT% | PPG | RPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cliff Hagan | F-C | Sr. | 25 | .455 | .691 | 24.0 | 13.5 |
| Frank Ramsey | G | Sr. | 25 | .416 | .729 | 19.6 | 8.8 |
| Lou Tsioropoulos | F | Sr. | 25 | .351 | .690 | 14.5 | 9.6 |
| Billy Evans | F-G | Jr. | 25 | .372 | .778 | 8.4 | 7.2 |
| Gayle Rose | G | Jr. | 23 | .346 | .646 | 6.7 | 1.3 |
| Phil Grawemeyer | F-C | Soph. | 25 | .372 | .543 | 5.9 | 6.1 |
| Linville Puckett | G | Soph. | 24 | .295 | .673 | 5.1 | 2.2 |
| Bill Bibb | F | Soph. | 16 | .313 | .583 | 1.7 | 1.6 |
| TEAM TOTALS | 25 | .383 | .678 | 87.5 | 52.7 |
San Francisco (29-0 in 1955-56)
Coach: Phil Woolpert (fifth of nine seasons with Dons)
| 1955-56 USF Opponents | Date | Score | USF's High Scorer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chico State (Calif.) | D2 | 70-39 | Bill Russell 15 |
| Southern California | D3 | 58-42 | Bill Russell 24 |
| San Francisco State | D6 | 72-47 | Bill Russell 20 |
| Marquette* | D16 | 65-58 | Bill Russell 16 |
| at DePaul | D17 | 82-59 | K.C. Jones 23 |
| at Wichita | D20 | 75-65 | Bill Russell 17 |
| at Loyola of New Orleans | D23 | 61-43 | Bill Russell 20 |
| La Salle* | D26 | 79-62 | Bill Russell 26 |
| Holy Cross* | D27 | 67-51 | Bill Russell 24 |
| UCLA* | D28 | 70-53 | Bill Russell 17 |
| Pepperdine | J6 | 62-51 | Bill Russell 20 |
| Santa Clara | J10 | 74-56 | Mike Farmer 18 |
| at Fresno State | J13 | 69-50 | Bill Russell 22 |
| at California | J28 | 33-24 | K.C. Jones 15 |
| San Jose State | J31 | 67-40 | Bill Russell 21 |
| Loyola of Los Angeles | F3 | 68-46 | Carl Boldt 20 |
| at Pacific | F7 | 77-60 | Bill Russell 24 |
| Fresno State | F10 | 79-46 | Bill Russell 23 |
| at San Jose State | F14 | 76-52 | Bill Russell 21 |
| at St. Mary's | F17 | 76-63 | Bill Russell 28 |
| at Santa Clara | F24 | 80-44 | Bill Russell 29 |
| Pacific | F28 | 87-49 | Bill Russell 28 |
| at Pepperdine | M2 | 68-40 | Carl Boldt 14 |
| at Loyola of Los Angeles | M3 | 65-48 | Bill Russell 24 |
| St. Mary's | M6 | 82-49 | Bill Russell 22 |
| UCLA* (NCAA Tournament) | M16 | 72-61 | Gene Brown 23 |
| Utah* (NCAA Tournament) | M17 | 92-77 | Bill Russell 27 |
| Southern Methodist* (NCAA Tournament) | M22 | 86-68 | Mike Farmer 26 |
| Iowa* (NCAA Tournament) | M23 | 83-71 | Bill Russell 26 |
*Neutral court games.
INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS FOR USF REGULARS
| Player | Pos. | Class | G. | FG% | FT% | PPG | RPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bill Russell | C | Sr. | 29 | .513 | .495 | 20.6 | 21.0 |
| K.C. Jones* | G | Sr. | 25 | .365 | .655 | 9.8 | 5.2 |
| Hal Perry | G | Sr. | 29 | .365 | .729 | 9.1 | 2.0 |
| Carl Boldt | F | Jr. | 28 | .326 | .783 | 8.6 | 5.0 |
| Mike Farmer | F | Soph. | 28 | .371 | .548 | 8.4 | 7.8 |
| Gene Brown | G | Soph. | 29 | .377 | .641 | 7.1 | 4.4 |
| Mike Preaseau | F | Soph. | 29 | .366 | .609 | 4.1 | 3.1 |
| Warren Baxter | G | Sr. | 26 | .301 | .667 | 2.2 | 0.7 |
| Bill Bush | G | Sr. | 22 | .208 | .625 | 0.9 | 0.8 |
| Jack King | F | Jr. | 22 | .162 | .462 | 0.8 | 1.0 |
| TEAM TOTALS | 29 | .388 | .604 | 72.2 | 54.2 |
*Ineligible for NCAA Tournament as a fifth-year player.
North Carolina (32-0 in 1956-57)
Coach: Frank McGuire (fifth of nine seasons with Tar Heels)
| 1956-57 UNC Opponents | Date | Score | Carolina's High Scorer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Furman | D4 | 94-66 | Lennie Rosenbluth 47 |
| Clemson* | D8 | 94-75 | Pete Brennan 28 |
| George Washington | D12 | 82-55 | Lennie Rosenbluth 27 |
| at South Carolina | D15 | 90-86 | Tommy Kearns 29 |
| Maryland | D17 | 70-61 | Lennie Rosenbluth 26 |
| at New York University | D20 | 64-59 | Bob Cunningham 16 |
| Dartmouth* | D21 | 89-61 | Lennie Rosenbluth 30 |
| Holy Cross* | D22 | 83-70 | Lennie Rosenbluth 23 |
| Utah* | D27 | 97-76 | Lennie Rosenbluth 36 |
| Duke* | D28 | 87-71 | Lennie Rosenbluth 32 |
| Wake Forest* | D29 | 63-55 | Lennie Rosenbluth 18 |
| at William & Mary | J8 | 71-61 | Pete Brennan 20 |
| Clemson | J11 | 86-54 | Lennie Rosenbluth 34 |
| Virginia | J12 | 102-90 | Lennie Rosenbluth 30 |
| at North Carolina State | J15 | 83-57 | Lennie Rosenbluth 29 |
| at Western Carolina | J30 | 77-59 | Lennie Rosenbluth 26 |
| at Maryland | F5 | 65-61 (2OT) | Lennie Rosenbluth 25 |
| Duke | F9 | 75-73 | Lennie Rosenbluth 35 |
| at Virginia | F11 | 68-59 | Lennie Rosenbluth 23 |
| Wake Forest | F13 | 72-69 | Lennie Rosenbluth 24 |
| North Carolina State | F19 | 86-57 | Lennie Rosenbluth 28 |
| South Carolina | F22 | 75-62 | Pete Brennan 26 |
| at Wake Forest | F26 | 69-64 | Lennie Rosenbluth 30 |
| at Duke | M1 | 86-72 | Lennie Rosenbluth 40 |
| Clemson* (ACC Tournament) | M7 | 81-61 | Lennie Rosenbluth 45 |
| Wake Forest* (ACC Tournament) | M8 | 61-59 | Lennie Rosenbluth 23 |
| South Carolina* (ACC Tournament) | M9 | 95-75 | Lennie Rosenbluth 38 |
| Yale* (NCAA Tournament) | M12 | 90-74 | Lennie Rosenbluth 29 |
| Canisius* (NCAA Tournament) | M15 | 87-75 | Lennie Rosenbluth 39 |
| Syracuse* (NCAA Tournament) | M16 | 67-58 | Lennie Rosenbluth 23 |
| Michigan State* (NCAA Tournament) | M22 | 74-70 (3OT) | Lennie Rosenbluth 31 |
| Kansas* (NCAA Tournament) | M23 | 54-53 (3OT) | Lennie Rosenbluth 20 |
*Neutral court games.
INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS FOR NORTH CAROLINA REGULARS
| Player | Pos. | Class | G. | FG% | FT% | PPG | RPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lennie Rosenbluth | F | Sr. | 32 | .483 | .758 | 28.0 | 8.8 |
| Pete Brennan | F | Jr. | 32 | .394 | .706 | 14.7 | 10.4 |
| Tommy Kearns | G | Jr. | 32 | .434 | .711 | 12.8 | 3.1 |
| Joe Quigg | C | Jr. | 31 | .434 | .719 | 10.3 | 8.6 |
| Bob Cunningham | G | Jr. | 32 | .393 | .598 | 7.2 | 6.7 |
| Tony Radovich | G | Sr. | 16 | .525 | .769 | 3.9 | 1.8 |
| Bill Hathaway | C | Soph. | 15 | .333 | .417 | 2.8 | 5.0 |
| Stan Groll | G | Soph. | 12 | .370 | .556 | 2.1 | 1.5 |
| Bob Young | C | Sr. | 15 | .256 | .538 | 1.9 | 2.1 |
| Ken Rosemond | G | Jr. | 15 | .400 | .556 | 1.1 | 0.6 |
| Danny Lotz | F | Soph. | 24 | .350 | .391 | 1.0 | 1.6 |
| TEAM TOTALS | 32 | .431 | .701 | 79.3 | 46.7 |
UCLA (30-0 in 1963-64)
Coach: John Wooden (16th of 27 seasons with Bruins)
| 1963-64 UCLA Opponents | Date | Score | Bruins High Scorer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brigham Young | D6 | 113-71 | Walt Hazzard 20 |
| Butler | D7 | 80-65 | Walt Hazzard 21 |
| Kansas State* | D13 | 78-75 | Gail Goodrich 21 |
| Kansas* | D14 | 74-54 | Gail Goodrich 23 |
| Baylor* | D20 | 112-61 | Walt Hazzard 23 |
| Creighton* | D21 | 95-79 | Walt Hazzard 26 |
| Yale | D26 | 95-65 | Gail Goodrich 25 |
| Michigan | D27 | 98-80 | Gail Goodrich 30 |
| Illinois | D28 | 83-79 | Gail Goodrich 21 |
| at Washington State | J3 | 88-83 | Gail Goodrich 28 |
| at Washington State | J4 | 121-77 | Gail Goodrich 21 |
| Southern California | J10 | 79-59 | Walt Hazzard 21 |
| Southern California | J11 | 78-71 | Gail Goodrich 23 |
| Stanford | J17 | 84-71 | Gail Goodrich 23 |
| Stanford* | J18 | 80-61 | Walt Hazzard 31 |
| UC Santa Barbara | J31 | 107-76 | Gail Goodrich/Walt Hazzard 21 |
| UC Santa Barbara* | F1 | 87-59 | Gail Goodrich 31 |
| at California | F7 | 87-67 | Gail Goodrich 26 |
| at California | F8 | 58-56 | Walt Hazzard 17 |
| Washington | F14 | 73-58 | Walt Hazzard 17 |
| Washington | F15 | 88-60 | Gail Goodrich 22 |
| at Stanford | F22 | 100-88 | Walt Hazzard 27 |
| at Washington | F24 | 78-64 | Keith Erickson/Walt Hazzard 21 |
| Washington State | F29 | 93-56 | Walt Hazzard 19 |
| California | M2 | 87-57 | Gail Goodrich 23 |
| Southern California | M6 | 91-81 | Gail Goodrich 23 |
| Seattle* (NCAA Tournament) | M13 | 95-90 | Walt Hazzard 26 |
| San Francisco* (NCAA Tournament) | M14 | 76-72 | Walt Hazzard 23 |
| Kansas State* (NCAA Tournament) | M20 | 90-84 | Keith Erickson 28 |
| Duke* (NCAA Tournament) | M21 | 98-83 | Gail Goodrich 27 |
*Neutral court games.
INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS FOR UCLA REGULARS
| Player | Pos. | Class | G. | FG% | FT% | PPG | RPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gail Goodrich | G | Jr. | 30 | .458 | .711 | 21.5 | 5.2 |
| Walt Hazzard | G | Sr. | 30 | .445 | .718 | 18.6 | 4.7 |
| Jack Hirsch | F | Sr. | 30 | .528 | .664 | 14.0 | 7.6 |
| Keith Erickson | F | Jr. | 30 | .403 | .623 | 10.7 | 9.1 |
| Fred Slaughter | C | Sr. | 30 | .466 | .484 | 7.9 | 8.1 |
| Kenny Washington | F-G | Soph. | 30 | .458 | .627 | 6.1 | 4.2 |
| Doug McIntosh | C | Soph. | 30 | .519 | .500 | 3.6 | 4.4 |
| Kim Stewart | F | Sr. | 23 | .393 | .467 | 2.2 | 2.0 |
| Rich Levin | F | Jr. | 19 | .372 | .500 | 2.0 | 0.6 |
| Mike Huggins | G | Sr. | 23 | .382 | .478 | 1.6 | 1.0 |
| Chuck Darrow | G | Soph. | 23 | .379 | .583 | 1.6 | 1.2 |
| Vaughn Hoffman | C | Soph. | 21 | .476 | .500 | 1.2 | 1.3 |
| TEAM TOTALS | 30 | .455 | .644 | 88.9 | 55.7 |
UCLA (30-0 in 1966-67)
Coach: John Wooden (19th of 27 seasons with Bruins)
| 1966-67 UCLA Opponents | Date | Score | Bruins High Scorer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southern California | D3 | 105-90 | Lew Alcindor 56 |
| Duke | D9 | 88-54 | Lew Alcindor/Lucius Allen 19 |
| Duke | D10 | 107-87 | Lew Alcindor 38 |
| Colorado State | D22 | 84-74 | Lew Alcindor 34 |
| Notre Dame | D23 | 96-67 | Lew Alcindor 25 |
| Wisconsin | D28 | 100-56 | Lew Alcindor 24 |
| Georgia Tech | D29 | 91-72 | Lew Alcindor 18 |
| Southern California | D30 | 107-83 | Lew Alcindor 25 |
| at Washington State | J7 | 76-67 | Lew Alcindor 28 |
| at Washington | J9 | 83-68 | Lew Alcindor 28 |
| California | J13 | 96-78 | Lew Alcindor 26 |
| Stanford | J14 | 116-78 | Lew Alcindor 37 |
| Portland | J20 | 122-57 | Lew Alcindor 27 |
| UC Santa Barbara | J21 | 119-75 | Lew Alcindor 37 |
| at Loyola of Chicago | J28 | 82-67 | Lew Alcindor 35 |
| Illinois* | J29 | 120-82 | Lew Alcindor 45 |
| at Southern California | F4 | 40-35 (OT) | Lew Alcindor 13 |
| Oregon State | F10 | 76-44 | Lew Alcindor/Lucius Allen 22 |
| Oregon | F11 | 100-66 | Lucius Allen 20 |
| at Oregon | F17 | 34-25 | Lew Alcindor 12 |
| at Oregon State | F18 | 72-50 | Lew Alcindor 28 |
| Washington | F24 | 71-43 | Lew Alcindor 37 |
| Washington State | F25 | 100-78 | Lew Alcindor 61 |
| at Stanford | M3 | 75-47 | Lew Alcindor 20 |
| at California | M4 | 103-66 | Lew Alcindor 30 |
| Southern California | M11 | 83-55 | Lew Alcindor 26 |
| Wyoming* (NCAA Tournament) | M17 | 109-60 | Lew Alcindor 29 |
| Pacific* (NCAA Tournament) | M18 | 80-64 | Lew Alcindor 38 |
| Houston* (NCAA Tournament) | M24 | 73-58 | Lynn Shackelford 22 |
| Dayton* (NCAA Tournament) | M25 | 79-64 | Lew Alcindor 20 |
*Neutral court games.
INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS FOR UCLA REGULARS
| Player | Pos. | Class | G. | FG% | FT% | PPG | RPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lew Alcindor | C | Soph. | 30 | .667 | .650 | 29.0 | 15.5 |
| Lucius Allen | G | Soph. | 30 | .479 | .713 | 15.5 | 5.8 |
| Mike Warren | G | Jr. | 30 | .465 | .758 | 12.7 | 4.5 |
| Lynn Shackelford | F | Soph. | 30 | .480 | .821 | 11.4 | 5.9 |
| Ken Heitz | F-G | Soph. | 30 | .506 | .600 | 6.1 | 3.2 |
| Bill Sweek | G | Soph. | 30 | .479 | .565 | 4.7 | 2.8 |
| Jim Nielsen | F-C | Soph. | 27 | .519 | .455 | 4.6 | 3.4 |
| Don Saffer | G | Jr. | 27 | .451 | .542 | 2.9 | 0.8 |
| Gene Sutherland | G | Jr. | 20 | .455 | .583 | 1.9 | 0.8 |
| Neville Saner | F-C | Jr. | 24 | .308 | .667 | 1.4 | 1.9 |
| Joe Chrisman | F | Jr. | 19 | .320 | .364 | 1.1 | 1.5 |
| TEAM TOTALS | 30 | .520 | .653 | 89.6 | 49.8 |
UCLA (30-0 in 1971-72)
Coach: John Wooden (24th of 27 seasons with Bruins)
| 1971-72 UCLA Opponents | Date | Score | Bruins High Scorer |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Citadel | D3 | 105-49 | Henry Bibby 26 |
| Iowa | D4 | 106-72 | Henry Bibby 32 |
| Iowa State | D10 | 110-81 | Bill Walton 24 |
| Texas A&M | D11 | 117-53 | Bill Walton 23 |
| Notre Dame | D22 | 114-56 | Henry Bibby 28 |
| Texas Christian | D23 | 119-81 | Bill Walton 31 |
| Texas | D29 | 115-65 | Bill Walton 28 |
| Ohio State | D30 | 79-53 | Bill Walton 14 |
| at Oregon State | J7 | 78-72 | Henry Bibby 17 |
| at Oregon | J8 | 93-68 | Bill Walton 30 |
| Stanford | J14 | 118-79 | Bill Walton 32 |
| California | J15 | 82-43 | Bill Walton 20 |
| Santa Clara | J21 | 92-57 | Keith Wilkes 16 |
| Denver | J22 | 108-61 | Henry Bibby/Larry Farmer 19 |
| at Loyola of Chicago | J28 | 92-64 | Henry Bibby/Bill Walton 18 |
| at Notre Dame | J29 | 57-32 | Henry Bibby 15 |
| Southern California | F5 | 81-56 | Bill Walton 22 |
| Washington State | F11 | 89-58 | Bill Walton 25 |
| Washington | F12 | 109-70 | Bill Walton 27 |
| at Washington | F19 | 100-83 | Bill Walton 31 |
| at Washington State | F21 | 85-55 | Larry Hollyfield/Keith Wilkes 16 |
| Oregon | F25 | 92-70 | Bill Walton 37 |
| Oregon State | F26 | 92-72 | Bill Walton 26 |
| at California | M3 | 91-71 | Bill Walton 24 |
| at Stanford | M4 | 102-73 | Greg Lee 16 |
| at Southern California | M10 | 79-66 | Bill Walton 20 |
| Weber State* (NCAA Tournament) | M16 | 90-58 | Henry Bibby 16 |
| Long Beach State* (NCAA Tournament) | M18 | 73-57 | Henry Bibby 23 |
| Louisville* (NCAA Tournament) | M23 | 96-77 | Bill Walton 23 |
| Florida State* (NCAA Tournament) | M25 | 81-76 | Bill Walton 24 |
*Neutral court games.
INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS FOR UCLA REGULARS
| Player | Pos. | Class | G. | FG% | FT% | PPG | RPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bill Walton | C | Soph. | 30 | .640 | .704 | 21.1 | 15.5 |
| Henry Bibby | G | Sr. | 30 | .450 | .806 | 15.7 | 3.5 |
| Keith Wilkes | F | Soph. | 30 | .531 | .696 | 13.5 | 8.2 |
| Larry Farmer | F | Jr. | 30 | .456 | .549 | 10.7 | 5.5 |
| Greg Lee | G | Soph. | 29 | .492 | .824 | 8.7 | 2.0 |
| Larry Hollyfield | F | Jr. | 30 | .514 | .651 | 7.3 | 3.3 |
| Swen Nater | C | Jr. | 29 | .535 | .609 | 6.7 | 4.8 |
| Tommy Curtis | G | Soph. | 30 | .437 | .636 | 4.1 | 2.1 |
| Andy Hill | G | Sr. | 26 | .356 | .709 | 2.7 | 0.8 |
| Vince Carson | F | Soph. | 28 | .400 | .667 | 2.4 | 2.6 |
| Jon Chapman | F | Sr. | 28 | .465 | .500 | 1.6 | 1.6 |
| Gary Franklin | F | Soph. | 26 | .412 | .438 | 1.3 | 1.0 |
| TEAM TOTALS | 30 | .504 | .695 | 94.6 | 54.9 |
UCLA (30-0 in 1972-73)
Coach: John Wooden (25th of 27 seasons with Bruins)
| 1972-73 UCLA Opponents | Date | Score | Bruins High Scorer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | N25 | 94-53 | Bill Walton 26 |
| Bradley | D1 | 73-38 | Bill Walton 16 |
| Pacific | D2 | 81-48 | Keith Wilkes 18 |
| UC Santa Barbara | D16 | 98-67 | Bill Walton 30 |
| Pittsburgh | D22 | 89-73 | Keith Wilkes 20 |
| Notre Dame | D23 | 82-56 | Keith Wilkes 18 |
| Drake* | D29 | 85-72 | Bill Walton 29 |
| Illinois* | D30 | 71-64 | Bill Walton 22 |
| Oregon | J5 | 64-38 | Larry Farmer/Keith Wilkes 14 |
| Oregon State | J6 | 87-61 | Keith Wilkes 19 |
| at Stanford | J12 | 82-67 | Larry Farmer/Larry Hollyfield/Bill Walton 18 |
| at California | J13 | 69-50 | Larry Farmer/Keith Wilkes 18 |
| San Francisco | J19 | 92-64 | Bill Walton 22 |
| Providence | J20 | 101-77 | Larry Farmer 21 |
| at Loyola of Chicago | J25 | 87-73 | Bill Walton 32 |
| at Notre Dame | J27 | 82-63 | Keith Wilkes 20 |
| at Southern California | F3 | 79-56 | Bill Walton 20 |
| at Washington State | F10 | 88-50 | Bill Walton 17 |
| at Washington | F12 | 76-67 | Bill Walton 29 |
| Washington | F16 | 93-62 | Bill Walton 26 |
| Washington State | F17 | 96-64 | Bill Walton 29 |
| at Oregon | F22 | 72-61 | Keith Wilkes 18 |
| at Oregon State | F24 | 73-67 | Bill Walton 21 |
| California | M2 | 90-65 | Bill Walton/Keith Wilkes 15 |
| Stanford | M3 | 51-45 | Bill Walton 23 |
| Southern California | M10 | 76-56 | Bill Walton/Keith Wilkes 17 |
| Arizona State (NCAA Tournament) | M15 | 98-81 | Bill Walton 28 |
| San Francisco (NCAA Tournament) | M17 | 54-39 | Larry Farmer 13 |
| Indiana* (NCAA Tournament) | M24 | 70-59 | Tommy Curtis 22 |
| Memphis State* (NCAA Tournament) | M26 | 87-66 | Bill Walton 44 |
*Neutral court games.
INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS FOR UCLA REGULARS
| Player | Pos. | Class | G. | FG% | FT% | PPG | RPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bill Walton | C | Jr. | 30 | .650 | .569 | 20.4 | 16.9 |
| Keith Wilkes | F | Jr. | 30 | .525 | .652 | 14.8 | 7.3 |
| Larry Farmer | F | Sr. | 30 | .511 | .701 | 12.2 | 5.0 |
| Larry Hollyfield | G | Sr. | 30 | .466 | .492 | 10.7 | 2.9 |
| Tommy Curtis | G | Jr. | 24 | .512 | .667 | 6.4 | 1.7 |
| Dave Meyers | F | Soph. | 28 | .477 | .756 | 4.9 | 2.9 |
| Greg Lee | G | Jr. | 30 | .473 | .790 | 4.6 | 1.3 |
| Swen Nater | C | Sr. | 29 | .459 | .652 | 3.2 | 3.3 |
| Pete Trgovich | G-F | Soph. | 25 | .382 | .400 | 3.1 | 1.7 |
| Vince Carson | F | Jr. | 26 | .514 | .471 | 1.7 | 2.2 |
| Gary Franklin | F | Jr. | 24 | .485 | .500 | 1.6 | 1.3 |
| Bob Webb | G | Jr. | 21 | .148 | .833 | 0.6 | 0.2 |
| TEAM TOTALS | 30 | .519 | .632 | 81.3 | 49.0 |
Assists leader: Walton 168.
North Carolina State (27-0 in 1972-73)
Coach: Norman Sloan (seventh of 14 seasons with Wolfpack)
| 1972-73 N.C. State Opponents | Date | Score | Wolfpack High Scorer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appalachian State | N27 | 130-53 | David Thompson 33 |
| Atlantic Christian | D1 | 110-40 | David Thompson 32 |
| Georgia Southern | D4 | 144-100 | David Thompson 40 |
| South Florida | D8 | 125-88 | David Thompson 30 |
| Wake Forest* | D15 | 88-83 | David Thompson 29 |
| North Carolina* | D16 | 68-61 | David Thompson 19 |
| Davidson* | D19 | 103-90 | Joe Cafferky 25 |
| at Georgia | D23 | 97-83 | David Thompson 26 |
| at Virginia | J6 | 68-61 | Monte Towe 17 |
| Duke | J10 | 94-87 | Monte Towe/Tom Burleson 20 |
| Lehigh | J12 | 115-53 | Tom Burleson 30 |
| at Maryland | J14 | 87-85 | David Thompson 37 |
| at Clemson | J20 | 86-76 | David Thompson 24 |
| at Furman | J27 | 98-73 | David Thompson 27 |
| Maryland | J31 | 89-78 | David Thompson 24 |
| Virginia | F3 | 64-59 | David Thompson 18 |
| North Carolina | F5 | 76-73 | David Thompson 22 |
| Clemson* | F9 | 68-61 | David Thompson 30 |
| Georgia Tech* | F10 | 118-94 | David Thompson 36 |
| East Carolina | F13 | 105-70 | David Thompson 33 |
| at Wake Forest | F17 | 81-59 | David Thompson 21 |
| at Duke | F21 | 74-50 | David Thompson 31 |
| UNC Charlotte | F24 | 100-64 | Tom Burleson 26 |
| at North Carolina | F27 | 82-78 | David Thompson 18 |
| Wake Forest | M3 | 100-77 | Tom Burleson 27 |
| Virginia* (ACC Tournament) | M9 | 63-51 | Tom Burleson/David Thompson 14 |
| Maryland* (ACC Tournament) | M10 | 76-74 | Tom Burleson 14 |
*Neutral court games.
INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS FOR N.C. STATE REGULARS
| Player | Pos. | Class | G. | FG% | FT% | PPG | RPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| David Thompson | F | Soph. | 27 | .569 | .825 | 24.7 | 8.1 |
| Tom Burleson | C | Jr. | 27 | .512 | .730 | 17.9 | 12.0 |
| Monte Towe | G | Soph. | 27 | .468 | .729 | 10.0 | 1.7 |
| Rick Holdt | F | Sr. | 27 | .531 | .660 | 8.3 | 3.7 |
| Tim Stoddard | F | Soph. | 27 | .482 | .569 | 7.9 | 5.3 |
| Joe Cafferky | G | Sr. | 25 | .569 | .767 | 7.2 | 2.1 |
| Greg Hawkins | F | Jr. | 25 | .448 | .706 | 5.6 | 3.3 |
| Mark Moeller | G | Soph. | 27 | .579 | .516 | 4.7 | 1.6 |
| Steve Nuce | F | Jr. | 26 | .474 | .571 | 4.4 | 2.1 |
| Craig Kuszmaul | G | Soph. | 19 | .667 | .400 | 2.4 | 0.9 |
| TEAM TOTALS | 27 | .520 | .715 | 92.9 | 46.5 |
INDIANA (32-0 in 1975-76)
Coach: Bob Knight (fifth of 29 seasons with Hoosiers)
| 1975-76 IU Opponents | Date | Score | IU's High Scorer |
|---|---|---|---|
| UCLA* | N29 | 84-64 | Scott May 33 |
| Florida State* | D8 | 83-59 | Scott May 24 |
| Notre Dame | D11 | 63-60 | Scott May 25 |
| Kentucky* | D15 | 77-68 (OT) | Kent Benson/Scott May 27 |
| Georgia | D19 | 93-56 | Scott May 18 |
| Virginia Tech | D20 | 101-74 | Scott May 27 |
| Columbia* | D26 | 106-63 | Kent Benson 15 |
| Manhattan* | D27 | 97-61 | Scott May 32 |
| at St. John's | D28 | 76-69 | Scott May 29 |
| at Ohio State | J3 | 66-64 | Scott May 24 |
| Northwestern | J5 | 78-61 | Kent Benson 22 |
| at Michigan | J10 | 80-74 | Kent Benson 33 |
| at Michigan State | J12 | 69-57 | Kent Benson 23 |
| at Illinois | J17 | 83-55 | Scott May 27 |
| Purdue | J19 | 71-67 | Scott May 32 |
| at Minnesota | J24 | 85-76 | Tom Abernethy 22 |
| at Iowa | J26 | 88-73 | Scott May 32 |
| Wisconsin | J31 | 114-61 | Scott May 30 |
| Michigan | F7 | 72-67 (OT) | Scott May 27 |
| Michigan State | F9 | 85-70 | Kent Benson 38 |
| Illinois | F14 | 58-48 | Kent Benson 17 |
| at Purdue | F16 | 74-71 | Scott May 26 |
| Minnesota | F21 | 76-64 | Tom Abernethy 22 |
| Iowa | F23 | 101-81 | Quinn Buckner 24 |
| at Wisconsin | F26 | 96-67 | Scott May 41 |
| at Northwestern | M1 | 76-63 | Scott May 24 |
| Ohio State | M6 | 96-67 | Kent Benson/Scott May 21 |
| St. John's* (NCAA Tournament) | M13 | 90-70 | Scott May 33 |
| Alabama* (NCAA Tournament) | M18 | 74-69 | Scott May 25 |
| Marquette* (NCAA Tournament) | M20 | 65-56 | Kent Benson 18 |
| UCLA* (NCAA Tournament) | M27 | 65-51 | Kent Benson 16 |
| Michigan* (NCAA Tournament) | M29 | 86-68 | Scott May 26 |
*Neutral court games.
INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS FOR INDIANA REGULARS
| Player | Pos. | Class | G. | FG% | FT% | PPG | RPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scott May | F | Sr. | 32 | .527 | .782 | 23.5 | 7.7 |
| Kent Benson | C | Jr. | 32 | .578 | .684 | 17.3 | 8.8 |
| Tom Abernethy | F | Sr. | 32 | .561 | .743 | 10.0 | 5.3 |
| Quinn Buckner | G | Sr. | 32 | .441 | .488 | 8.9 | 2.8 |
| Bobby Wilkerson | G-F | Sr. | 32 | .493 | .630 | 7.8 | 4.9 |
| Wayne Radford | G | Soph. | 30 | .563 | .712 | 4.7 | 2.1 |
| Jim Crews | G | Sr. | 31 | .468 | .857 | 3.3 | 0.7 |
| Jim Wisman | G | Soph. | 26 | .367 | .724 | 2.5 | 0.8 |
| Rich Valavicius | F | Fr. | 28 | .483 | .625 | 2.4 | 1.8 |
| TEAM TOTALS | 32 | .517 | .698 | 82.1 | 41.4 |
Assists leader: Wilkerson 171.
Blocked shots leader: Benson 39.
Steals leader: Buckner 65.
Last of Unbeatens: Odds Against Michigan and Virginia Winning NCAA Title
No NCAA Division I men's team has compiled an undefeated record since Indiana in 1975-76. Virginia and Michigan were the last remaining unbeaten teams this season until they bowed at Duke and Wisconsin, respectively on the same day.
The historical odds are against UM and UVa winning the NCAA title because only three final undefeated teams in the previous 39 years - (Duke '92, UConn '99 and Florida '06) - went on to capture the national crown.
Prior to probation-shackled SMU three seasons ago, Clemson (winner of its first 17 outings in 2006-07), was the only school in this last-of-the-unbeaten category to fail to participate in the NCAA playoffs. The Tigers finished runner-up in the NIT.
It's the third time in last four years that no NCAA DI team was undefeated entering February since national polling was introduced in the late 1940s. Following in reverse order are vital facts on final unbeaten teams since the Hoosiers a half-century ago:
| Season | Last Unbeaten (Wins) | First Defeat | Date | Score | Final Record/Postseason |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018-19 | Michigan (17) | at Wisconsin | 1-19-19 | 64-54 | To be determined |
| 2018-19 | Virginia (16) | at Duke | 1-19-19 | 72-70 | To be determined |
| 2017-18 | Arizona State (12) | Arizona | 12-31-17 | 84-78 | 20-12/NCAA Play-In |
| 2016-17 | Gonzaga (29)* | Brigham Young | 2-25-17 | 79-71 | 37-2/National Runner-up |
| 2015-16 | Southern Methodist (18) | at Temple | 1-24-16 | 89-80 | 25-5/Probation |
| 2014-15 | Kentucky (38)* | vs. Wisconsin | 4-4-15 | 71-64 | 38-1/NCAA Final Four |
| 2013-14 | Wichita State (35)* | vs. Kentucky | 3-23-14 | 78-76 | 35-1/Second Round |
| 2012-13 | Michigan (16) | at Ohio State | 1-13-13 | 56-53 | 31-8/NCAA Runner-up |
| 2011-12 | Murray State (23)* | Tennessee State | 2-9-12 | 72-68 | 31-2/Second Round |
| 2010-11 | Ohio State (24) | at Wisconsin | 2-12-11 | 71-67 | 34-3/Regional Semifinal |
| 2009-10 | Kentucky (19) | at South Carolina | 1-26-10 | 68-62 | 35-3/Regional Final |
| 2008-09 | Wake Forest (16) | Virginia Tech | 1-21-09 | 78-71 | 24-7/First Round |
| 2007-08 | Memphis (26) | Tennessee | 2-23-08 | 66-62 | 38-2/National Runner-up |
| 2006-07 | Clemson (17)* | at Maryland | 1-13-07 | 92-87 | 25-11/NIT Runner-up |
| 2005-06 | Florida (17)* | at Tennessee | 1-21-06 | 80-76 | 33-6/NCAA Champion |
| 2004-05 | Illinois (29)* | at Ohio State | 3-6-05 | 65-64 | 37-2/NCAA Runner-up |
| 2003-04 | Saint Joseph's (27)* | vs. Xavier | 3-11-04 | 87-67 | 30-2/Regional Final |
| 2002-03 | Duke (12) | at Maryland | 1-18-03 | 87-72 | 26-7/Regional Semifinal |
| 2001-02 | Duke (12) | at Florida State | 1-6-02 | 77-76 | 31-4/Regional Semifinal |
| 2000-01 | Stanford (20) | UCLA | 2-3-01 | 79-73 | 31-3/Regional Final |
| 1999-00 | Syracuse (19) | Seton Hall | 2-7-00 | 69-67 | 26-6/Regional Semifinal |
| 1998-99 | Connecticut (19) | Syracuse | 2-1-99 | 59-42 | 34-2/NCAA Champion |
| 1997-98 | Utah (18) | at New Mexico | 2-1-98 | 77-74 | 30-4/NCAA Runner-up |
| 1996-97 | Kansas (22) | at Missouri (2OT) | 2-4-97 | 96-94 | 34-2/Regional Semifinal |
| 1995-96 | Massachusetts (26)* | George Washington | 2-24-96 | 86-76 | 35-2/NCAA Final Four |
| 1994-95 | Connecticut (15) | at Kansas | 1-28-95 | 88-59 | 28-5/Regional Final |
| 1993-94 | UCLA (14) | at California | 1-30-94 | 85-70 | 21-7/First Round |
| 1992-93 | Virginia (11) | at North Carolina | 1-20-93 | 80-58 | 21-10/Regional Semifinal |
| 1991-92 | Duke (17) | at North Carolina | 2-5-92 | 75-73 | 34-2/NCAA Champion |
| 1991-92 | Oklahoma State (20) | at Nebraska | 2-5-92 | 85-69 | 28-8/Regional Semifinal |
| 1990-91 | UNLV (34) | vs. Duke | 3-30-91 | 79-77 | 34-1/NCAA Final Four |
| 1989-90 | Georgetown (14) | at Connecticut | 1-20-90 | 70-65 | 24-7/Second Round |
| 1988-89 | Illinois (17) | at Minnesota | 1-26-89 | 69-62 | 31-5/NCAA Final Four |
| 1987-88 | Brigham Young (17)* | at UAB | 2-6-88 | 102-83 | 26-6/Sweet 16 |
| 1986-87 | DePaul (16) | at Georgetown | 1-25-87 | 74-71 | 28-3/Regional Semifinal |
| 1985-86 | Memphis State (20) | at Virginia Tech | 2-1-86 | 76-72 | 28-6/Second Round |
| 1984-85 | Georgetown (18) | St. John's | 1-26-85 | 66-65 | 35-3/NCAA Runner-up |
| 1983-84 | North Carolina (21) | vs. Arkansas | 2-12-84 | 65-64 | 28-3/Regional Semifinal |
| 1982-83 | UNLV (24) | at Cal State Fullerton | 2-24-83 | 86-78 | 28-3/Second Round |
| 1981-82 | Missouri (19) | Nebraska | 2-6-82 | 67-51 | 27-4/Regional Semifinal |
| 1980-81 | Oregon State (26)* | Arizona State | 3-7-81 | 87-67 | 26-2/Second Round |
| 1979-80 | DePaul (26)* | at Notre Dame (2OT) | 2-27-80 | 76-74 | 26-2/Second Round |
| 1978-79 | Indiana State (33)* | vs. Michigan State | 3-26-79 | 75-64 | 33-1/NCAA Runner-up |
| 1977-78 | Kentucky (14) | at Alabama | 1-23-78 | 78-62 | 30-2/NCAA Champion |
| 1976-77 | San Francisco (29) | at Notre Dame | 3-5-77 | 93-82 | 29-2/First Round |
*All-time top winning streaks.
NOTES: North Carolina lost in Pine Bluff, Ark. . . . Saint Joseph's lost in Atlantic 10 Conference Tournament quarterfinals at Dayton.
Markus Hangs 53: Single-Game Scoring Standards By Individual Opponents
When Marquette junior guard Markus Howard tallied 53 points at Creighton, the eruption triggered research regarding which individual opponent has the highest single-game scoring outburst against each major university. Howard's outburst not only established a school record but also set the individual standard by an opponent against Creighton. A year ago also on the road, Howard set a similar "toxic-masculinity" standard by an opponent at Providence with 52 points.
Furman's Darrell Floyd and Frank Selvy collaborated for a total of nine scoring records in this category existing since the mid-1950s. Such scorched-earth outputs have been difficult to come by thus far in the 21st Century (unofficially nine such uprisings). Many schools don't keep track of a standard perhaps reflecting a mite negatively upon them but following is what CollegeHoopedia.com unearthed on the topic:
*Unofficial.
Changing in Midstream: Are Bruins in Ruins After Firing Alford in Mid-Year?
What happens to a team when a coach doesn't last half a season such as when UCLA dismissed Steve Alford prior to entering Pac-12 Conference competition with a 7-6 record (including five defeats by at least 14 points)? A total of 32 different schools in the previous 22 seasons (including Charlotte twice in previous four years) had a coach relieved of his duties, retire or pass away after the start of the season but before the second half of the campaign. Three years ago, Wisconsin's Greg Gard (15-8) became only the eighth "successor" coach piloting a club more than half of a campaign since the NCAA playoffs expanded to at least 64 entrants in 1985 to post a winning record the remainder of the season. He joined Jeff Dittman (10-8 with Sam Houston State in 1988-89), Dave Fehte (9-8 with Saint Mary's in 1990-91), Max Good (13-9 with UNLV in 2000-01), Ray Harper (11-8 with Western Kentucky in 2011-12), Mike Perry (10-9 with Georgia State in 2002-03), Brad Soderberg (16-10 with Wisconsin in 2000-01) and Derek Waugh (14-8 with Stetson in 2000-01). Gard, Harper and Soderberg guided the squads they inherited to an NCAA playoff berth.
At the power-conference level, John Brady (Louisiana State in 2007-08), Lou Campanelli (California in 1992-93), Gale Catlett (West Virginia in 2001-02), Jim Dutcher (Minnesota in 1985-86), Dennis Felton (Georgia in 2008-09), Larry Glass (Northwestern in 1968-69), Mark Gottfried (Alabama in 2008-09), Joe Harrington (Colorado in 1995-96), Bob Knight (Texas Tech in 2007-08), Ward "Piggy" Lambert (Purdue in 1945-46), Shelby Metcalf (Texas A&M in 1989-90), Kevin O'Neill (Southern California in 2012-13), Charlie Parker (Southern California in 1995-96), Steve Patterson (Arizona State in 1988-89) and Quin Snyder (Missouri in 2005-06) comprise the list of coaches who lasted more than half of a specific season before their tenures ended for one reason or another.
Following is an alphabetical list of universities in the pre-midseason coaching turnover category since the start of national postseason competition and the records of their coaches that season:
| Division I School | Season | Successor/Interim (Record) | Departing Coach (Record) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appalachian State | 1974-75 | Russ Bergman (2-12) | Peter "Press" Maravich (1-11) |
| Boise State | 1972-73 | Doran "Bus" Connor (6-7) | Murray Satterfield (5-8) |
| Brigham Young | 1996-97 | Tony Ingle (1-25) | Roger Reid (1-6) |
| Buffalo | 1999-00 | Reggie Witherspoon (3-20) | Tim Cohane (2-3) |
| Cal Poly | 2000-01 | Kevin Bromley (3-12) | Jeff Schneider (5-7) |
| Centenary | 1977-78 | Tommy Canterbury (6-9) | Riley Wallace (4-8) |
| Central Connecticut State | 1987-88 | C.J. Jones (8-15) | Bill Detrick (2-3) |
| Charlotte | 2014-15 | Ryan Odom (8-11) | Alan Major (6-7) |
| Charlotte | 2017-18 | Houston Fancher (3-17) | Mark Price (3-6) |
| Chicago State | 1996-97 | Phil Gary (4-17) | Craig Hodges (0-6) |
| The Citadel | 1939-40 | Ben Parker (4-5) | Absalon "Rock" Norman (4-4) |
| Colgate | 1997-98 | Paul Aiello (10-12) | Jack Bruen (0-6) |
| Connecticut | 1946-47 | Hugh Greer (12-0) | Blair Gullion (4-2) |
| Connecticut | 1962-63 | George Wigton (11-4) | Hugh Greer (7-3) |
| Dartmouth | 1966-67 | Dave Gavitt (2-15) | Alvin "Doggie" Julian (5-2) |
| Dartmouth | 2009-10 | Mark Graupe (2-13) | Terry Dunn (3-10) |
| Denver | 1948-49 | Hoyt Brawner (11-6) | Ellison Ketchum (6-9) |
| DePaul | 2009-10 | Tracy Webster (1-15) | Jerry Wainwright (7-8) |
| Detroit | 1987-88 | John Mulroy (7-20) | Don Sicko (0-3) |
| Detroit | 2007-08 | Kevin Mondro (3-13) | Perry Watson (4-10) |
| East Carolina | 2017-18 | Michael Perry (8-16) | Jeff Lebo (2-4) |
| Eastern Kentucky | 1961-62 | Jim Baechtold (6-3) | Paul McBrayer (4-3) |
| Eastern Michigan | 1985-86 | Ben Braun (5-10) | Jim Boyce (4-8) |
| Fordham | 2009-10 | Jared Grasso (1-22) | Dereck Whittenburg (1-4) |
| Georgetown | 1998-99 | Craig Esherick (8-10) | John Thompson Jr. (7-6) |
| Georgia State | 1984-85 | Mark Slonaker (1-24) | Tom Pugliese (1-2) |
| Georgia State | 2002-03 | Mike Perry (10-9) | Charles "Lefty" Driesell (4-6) |
| Howard | 1999-00 | Billy Coward (1-18) | Kirk Saulny (0-9) |
| Idaho State | 1967-68 | Dan Miller (10-12) | Claude Retherford (3-1) |
| Idaho State | 2011-12 | Deane Martin (7-13) | Joe O'Brien (2-8) |
| Iowa | 1949-50 | Frank "Bucky" O'Connor (6-5) | Lawrence "Pops" Harrison (9-2) |
| Jacksonville | 1996-97 | Buster Harvey (5-17) | George Scholz (0-6) |
| Kent State | 1977-78 | Mike Boyd (5-11) | Rex Hughes (1-10) |
| Long Island | 2001-02 | Ron Brown (5-13) | Ray Martin (0-9) |
| Louisville | 1970-71 | Howard Stacey (12-8) | John Dromo (8-1) |
| Monmouth | 1986-87 | Ron Krayl (7-13) | Ron Kornegay (1-6) |
| UNC Greensboro | 2011-12 | Wes Miller (11-11) | Mike Dement (2-8) |
| North Carolina State | 1964-65 | Peter "Press" Maravich (20-4) | Everett Case (1-1) |
| Northern Illinois | 2000-01 | Andy Greer (4-16) | Brian Hammel (1-6) |
| Oral Roberts | 1982-83 | Dick Acres (11-9) | Ken Hayes (3-5) |
| Penn | 2009-10 | Jerome Allen (6-15) | Glen Miller (0-7) |
| Princeton | 1944-45 | Leonard Hattinger (5-8) | William Logan (2-4) |
| Princeton | 1960-61 | Jake McCandless (9-6) | Franklin "Cappy" Cappon (9-2) |
| St. John's | 2003-04 | Kevin Clark (4-17) | Mike Jarvis (2-4) |
| Saint Mary's | 1990-91 | Dave Fehte (9-8) | Paul Landreaux (4-9) |
| Sam Houston State | 1988-89 | Jeff Dittman (10-8) | Gary Moss (2-8) |
| San Francisco | 1970-71 | Bob Gaillard (10-12) | Phil Vukicevich (0-4) |
| San Francisco | 2007-08 | Eddie Sutton (6-13) | Jessie Evans (4-8) |
| South Alabama | 1994-95 | Judas Prada (8-15) | Ronnie Arrow (1-3) |
| South Carolina | 1942-43 | Rex Enright (10-6) | Frank Johnson (2-0) |
| South Florida | 1979-80 | Gordon Gibbons (2-13) | Hunter "Chip" Conner (4-8) |
| Southeast Missouri State | 2008-09 | Zac Roman (0-18) | Scott Edgar (3-9) |
| Southeastern Louisiana | 1987-88 | Leo McClure (4-12) | Newton Chelette (3-9) |
| Southern California | 2004-05 | Jim Saia (11-15) | Henry Bibby (2-2) |
| Stetson | 2000-01 | Derek Waugh (14-8) | Murray Arnold (4-4) |
| Tennessee State | 1984-85 | Ed Meyers (6-13) | Ed Martin (3-6) |
| Tennessee State | 2002-03 | Hosea Lewis/Teresa Phillips (0-20) | Nolan Richardson III (2-5) |
| Tennessee Tech | 1988-89 | Frank Harrell (8-17) | Tom Deaton (2-3) |
| Texas-El Paso | 2017-18 | Phil Johnson (10-15) | Tim Floyd (1-5) |
| Tulsa | 2004-05 | Alvin "Pooh" Williamson (7-15) | John Phillips (2-5) |
| UNLV | 2000-01 | Max Good (13-9) | Bill Bayno (3-4) |
| Western Kentucky | 2011-12 | Ray Harper (11-8) | Ken McDonald (5-11) |
| Wisconsin | 2000-01 | Brad Soderberg (16-10) | Dick Bennett (2-1) |
| Wisconsin | 2015-16 | Greg Gard (15-8) | William "Bo" Ryan (7-5) |
On This Date: Former College Hoopers Ready For Some January Pro Football
Long before kneeling knuckleheads such as GQ cover boy #ColonKrapernick, the NCAA Tournament commenced in 1939, which was one year after the NIT triggered national postseason competition. An overlooked "versatile athlete" feat occurring in 1938 likely never to be duplicated took place at Arkansas, where the quarterback for the football squad (Jack Robbins) repeated as an All-SWC first-team basketball selection, leading the Razorbacks (19-3) to the league title. After the season, Robbins became an NFL first-round draft choice by the Chicago Cardinals (5th pick overall) and senior football/basketball teammates Jim Benton (11th pick by Cleveland Rams) and Ray Hamilton (41st pick by Rams) went on to become wide receivers for at least six years in the NFL. Yes, they created a kneeling-in-admiration shatterproof achievement - three members of a league championship basketball squad who promptly were among the top 41 selections in the same NFL draft.
Two years later, All-SWC first-team hoop selection Howard "Red" Hickey was instrumental in Arkansas reaching the 1941 Final Four before becoming an end for the Cleveland Rams' 1945 NFL titlist. Two-sport college teammate and fellow end O'Neal Adams scored five touchdowns for the New York Giants the first half of the 1940s. Another two-sport Hog who played for the Giants in the mid-1940s was Harry Wynne. An earlier versatile Razorback was Jim Lee Howell, who was an All-SWC first five hoops selection in 1935-36 before becoming a starting end for the Giants' 1938 NFL titlist and Pro Bowl participant the next year. Adams, Benton, Hamilton, Hickey and Howell combined for 77 touchdowns in an 11-year span from 1938 through 1948 when at least one of the ex-Razorback hoopers scored a TD in each of those seasons.
Hickey and ex-Hog All-SWC second-team hooper in 1929-30/NFL end Milan Creighton each coached NFL franchises. Many other ex-college hoopers also displayed their wares on the gridiron. Following is exhaustive research you can tackle regarding former college basketball players who made a name for themselves in January football at the professional level:
JANUARY
1: Houston Oilers TE John Carson (Georgia hoops letterman in 1952 and 1953) had a 13-yard pass reception in 24-16 win against the Los Angeles Chargers in AFL championship contest following 1960 season. Oilers rookie WR Bill Groman (led Heidelberg OH in scoring average as sophomore and junior while averaging 14.6 ppg and 4.8 rpg from 1954-55 through 1957-58) caught a touchdown pass from George Blanda. . . . Kansas City Chiefs QB Len Dawson (Purdue hooper in 1956-57) threw two 29-yard first-half touchdown passes in a 31-7 win against the Buffalo Bills in 1967 AFL championship game. FL Otis Taylor (backup small forward for Prairie View A&M) provided the go-ahead TD catch from Dawson. . . . FL Elbert Dubenion (solid rebounder and defensive player for Bluffton OH in late 1950s) scored the Buffalo Bills' only touchdown with a 69-yard pass from Jack Kemp in 31-7 setback against the Kansas City Chiefs in AFL playoffs following 1966 season. . . . Arizona Cardinals TE Darren Fells (averaged 10.2 ppg and 6.3 rpg from 2004-05 through 2007-08, leading UCI in rebounding each of last three seasons) had a 37-yard touchdown reception in 44-6 win against the Los Angeles Rams in 2016 season finale. . . . Dallas Cowboys E Pete Gent (three-time All-Big Ten Conference selection averaged 17.4 ppg and 8.3 rpg in leading Michigan State in scoring each season from 1961-62 through 1963-64) caught three passes for 28 yards in a 34-27 playoff setback against the Green Bay Packers following 1966 season. Packers WR Bob Long (Wichita State hooper in 1960-61 and 1961-62 under coach Ralph Miller) had a nine-yard pass reception. . . . San Francisco 49ers DB Ronnie Lott (USC hooper as junior in 1979-80) had two interceptions in a 34-9 playoff win against the Minnesota Vikings following 1988 season. . . . Pittsburgh Steelers WR Antwaan Randle El (member of Indiana's 1999 NCAA Tournament team) had 81-yard punt return for a touchdown in 35-21 win against the Detroit Lions in 2006. . . . Baltimore Ravens LB Adalius Thomas (averaged 2.9 ppg and 1.9 rpg for Southern Mississippi in 1996-97 and 1997-98) scored a touchdown on fumble recovery return in 20-16 setback against the Cleveland Browns in regular-season finale of 2005 campaign.
2: Miami Dolphins WR Chris Chambers (played hoops briefly for Wisconsin under coach Dick Bennett in 1997-98) caught four passes for 146 yards in a 30-23 setback against the Baltimore Ravens in 2005. . . . Kansas City Chiefs TE Tony Gonzalez (averaged 6.4 ppg and 4.3 rpg for California from 1994-95 through 1996-97) caught 14 passes for 144 yards in a 24-17 setback against the San Diego Chargers in 2005. . . . Miami Dolphins QB Bob Griese (sophomore guard for Purdue in 1964-65) opened the game's scoring by throwing a 75-yard touchdown pass to Paul Warfield in 21-0 playoff win against the Baltimore Colts following 1971 season. . . . Green Bay Packers RB Paul Hornung (averaged 6.1 ppg in 10 contests for Notre Dame in 1954-55) rushed for a 13-yard touchdown in 23-12 playoff win against the Cleveland Browns following 1965 season. . . . Philadelphia Eagles rookie QB Donovan McNabb (averaged 2.3 points in 18 games for Syracuse in 1995-96 and 1996-97) threw three touchdown passes in a 38-31 win against the St. Louis Rams in 1999 season finale. . . . Washington Redskins TE Robert Royal (collected 10 points and six rebounds in five LSU basketball games in 2000-01) caught a touchdown pass in his third consecutive contest in 2004 regular-season finale. . . . Baltimore Ravens LB Adalius Thomas (averaged 2.9 ppg and 1.9 rpg for Southern Mississippi in 1996-97 and 1997-98) had two sacks and two forced fumbles in a 30-23 win against the Miami Dolphins in regular-season finale of 2004 campaign. . . . Miami Dolphins WR Lamar Thomas (collected 16 points and 4 rebounds in four games for Miami FL in 1990-91) caught a 12-yard touchdown pass from Dan Marino in the fourth quarter to provide the difference in 24-17 playoff win against the Buffalo Bills following 1998 season. . . . New York Jets DE Marvin Washington (played in 1985 NCAA Tournament with UTEP under coach Don Haskins before averaging 2.9 ppg and 5.7 rpg for Idaho under Tim Floyd in 1987-88) had career-high 2 1/2 sacks in a 24-0 setback against the Houston Oilers at end of 1993 regular season. . . . Dallas Cowboys P Ron Widby (three-time All-SEC selection for Tennessee from 1964-65 through 1966-67 averaged 14.5 ppg and 8.3 rpg as sophomore, 17.3 ppg and 8 rpg as junior and 22.1 ppg and 8.7 rpg as senior) punted six times for 270 yards (45.0 average) in a 14-3 playoff win against the San Francisco 49ers following 1971 season.
3: Philadelphia Eagles WR Harold Carmichael (starter two seasons for Southern LA averaged 9.8 ppg and 10.6 rpg in 1969-70) had a playoff-career high seven pass receptions in 31-16 win against the Minnesota Vikings in 1981. . . . Baltimore Colts CB Jim Duncan (UMES hooper) returned four kickoffs for 105 yards (26.3 average) in a 27-17 playoff win against the Oakland Raiders following 1970 season. . . . TE Darren Fells (averaged 10.2 ppg and 6.3 rpg from 2004-05 through 2007-08, leading UCI in rebounding each of last three seasons) opened the Arizona Cardinals' scoring by catching a touchdown pass in 27-16 setback against the Carolina Panthers in playoffs following 2014 season. . . . San Diego Chargers TE Antonio Gates (second-team All-MAC selection in 2002 when Kent State finished runner-up in South Regional) had eight pass receptions in a 23-17 playoff win against the Indianapolis Colts following 2008 season. . . . Minnesota Vikings TE Andrew Glover (All-SWAC second-team selection as senior in 1990-91 when leading Grambling with 16.2 ppg and 8.6 rpg while pacing league in field-goal shooting) had three pass receptions for 84 yards in a 38-22 playoff setback against the San Francisco 49ers following 1997 season. 49ers RB Terry Kirby (averaged 3.4 ppg as Virginia freshman in 1989-90 and 2.1 as sophomore in 1990-91) rushed for two touchdowns on goal-line plunges. . . . TE Demetrius Harris (led Milwaukee in FG% and rebounding as senior in 2012-13) contributed the Kansas City Chiefs' final score with a 15-yard touchdown reception from Alex Smith in 23-17 win against the Oakland Raiders in 2015 season finale. . . . Baltimore Ravens TE Todd Heap (grabbed 14 rebounds in 11 games for Arizona State in 1999-00) caught a 35-yard touchdown pass in 20-17 playoff setback against the Tennessee Titans following 2003 season. . . . St. Louis Rams WR Jordan Kent (part-time starter for Oregon under his father while averaging 3.1 ppg and 3.3 rpg from 2003-04 through 2005-06) had his lone NFL pass reception (five yards against San Francisco 49ers in 2009 regular-season finale). . . . San Francisco 49ers DB Ronnie Lott (USC hooper as junior in 1979-80) had two interceptions - returning one of them 20 yards for a fourth-quarter touchdown - in 38-24 playoff win against the New York Giants following 1981 season. . . . San Francisco 49ers WR Terrell Owens (UTC hooper from 1993-94 through 1995-96 started five games) caught a game-winning 25-yard touchdown pass from Steve Young in 30-27 playoff win against the Green Bay Packers following 1998 season. . . . Carolina Panthers DE Julius Peppers (averaged 5.7 ppg and 3.7 rpg while shooting 60.7% from floor for North Carolina in 1999-00 and 2000-01) returned an interception 34 yards in 29-10 playoff win against the Dallas Cowboys following 2003 season. . . . San Francisco 49ers TE Bob Windsor (played two games for Kentucky in 1965-66 under coach Adolph Rupp) caught three passes for 70 yards in a 17-10 playoff setback against the Dallas Cowboys following 1970 season.
4: Minnesota Vikings QB Joe Kapp (backup forward averaged 1.8 ppg and 1.2 rpg for California's PCC champions in 1957 and 1958) threw a 75-yard touchdown pass to Gene Washington in 27-7 playoff win against the Cleveland Browns following 1969 season. . . . Cleveland Browns WR Dave Logan (three-time scoring runner-up averaged 14.1 ppg and 6.3 rpg for Colorado in mid-1970s) had two pass receptions for 36 yards in a 14-12 playoff setback against the Oakland Raiders following 1980 season. Browns RB Greg Pruitt (Oklahoma frosh hooper in 1969-70) caught three passes for 54 yards. Browns WR Reggie Rucker (averaged 6.8 ppg and 3.8 rpg for Boston University in 1966-67) caught two passes for 38 yards. . . . Dallas Cowboys RB Preston Pearson (swingman averaged 8.7 ppg and 6 rpg as Illinois senior in 1966-67) caught three of four touchdown passes by Roger Staubach (Navy varsity hooper in 1962-63) in a 37-7 playoff win against the Los Angeles Rams following 1975 season. . . . Kansas City Chiefs WR Andre Rison (backup hoops guard for Michigan State in 1987-88) had playoff career-highs of eight pass catches and 110 receiving yards in a 14-10 setback against the Denver Broncos following 1997 season. Broncos DE Alfred Williams (Colorado hooper in 1989-90) had two sacks.
5: New England Patriots LB Don Blackmon (collected 42 points and 32 rebounds in 12 games for Tulsa in 1977-78) registered two sacks in a 27-20 playoff win against the Oakland Raiders following 1985 season. . . . San Diego Chargers DT Ernie Ladd (intended on only playing hoops for Grambling before legendary coach Eddie Robinson got him to play football) had a sack in 51-10 win against the Boston Patriots in AFL championship game following 1963 season. . . . San Francisco 49ers WR Terrell Owens (UTC hooper from 1993-94 through 1995-96 started five games) had nine pass receptions for 177 yards - including two touchdowns from Jeff Garcia (76 and 26 yards) - in a 39-38 wild-card win against the New York Giants following 2002 season. 49ers WR Tai Streets (collected four points and seven rebounds in 13 games for Michigan's NIT titlist in 1997 under coach Steve Fisher) caught game-winning TD pass from Garcia with one minute remaining in fourth quarter. . . . WR Antwaan Randle El (member of Indiana's 1999 NCAA Tournament team) returned a punt 66 yards for the Pittsburgh Steelers' first touchdown in 36-33 playoff win against the Cleveland Browns following 2002 season. Five years later, Randle El had a seven-yard TD reception for the Washington Redskins' first score in 35-14 playoff setback against the Seattle Seahawks following 2007 campaign.
6: San Diego Chargers WR Chris Chambers (played hoops briefly for Wisconsin under coach Dick Bennett in 1997-98) had six pass receptions for 121 yards in a 17-6 playoff win against the Tennessee Titans following 2007 season. Chargers WR Vincent Jackson (Northern Colorado's scoring leader with 13.6 ppg in 2003-04 while also contributing 5.6 rpg and 3.1 apg) had five pass receptions for 114 yards - including a 25-yard touchdown from Philip Rivers. . . . TE Tony Gonzalez (averaged 6.4 ppg and 4.3 rpg for California from 1994-95 through 1996-97) provided the Kansas City Chiefs' lone touchdown with a six-yard pass from Trent Green in 23-8 playoff setback against the Indianapolis Colts following 2006 season. . . . New Orleans Saints WR Willie Jackson (started five hoops games for Florida in 1989-90) had nine pass receptions in a 34-16 playoff setback against the Minnesota Vikings following 2000 season. . . . San Francisco 49ers DB Ronnie Lott (USC hooper as junior in 1979-80) returned an interception 58 yards for a fourth-quarter touchdown in 41-13 playoff win against the Minnesota Vikings following 1989 season. . . . San Francisco 49ers WR Terrell Owens (UTC hooper from 1993-94 through 1995-96 started five games) closed out the regular season with two first-quarter touchdown passes from Jeff Garcia (56 and 60 yards) in a 38-0 win against the New Orleans Saints in 2002.
7: New York Giants CB Jason Sehorn (averaged 12.5 ppg and 6 rpg for Shasta Community College CA in 1990-91) returned a Donovan McNabb interception 32 yards for touchdown in 20-10 win against the Philadelphia Eagles in NFC Divisional Round playoff game following 2000 season. . . . Dallas Cowboys QB Roger Staubach (Navy varsity hooper in 1962-63) threw two fourth-quarter touchdown passes in a 28-0 playoff win against the Los Angeles Rams following 1978 season. . . . Houston Oilers CB Greg Stemrick (played in two basketball games for Colorado State in 1973-74) intercepted a pass by QB Terry Bradshaw in their 34-5 setback against the Pittsburgh Steelers in AFC Championship game following 1978 season.
8: Oakland Raiders RB Greg Pruitt (Oklahoma frosh hooper in 1969-70) rushed three times for 15 yards, caught two passes for 14 yards, returned two kickoffs for 57 yards and returned five punts for 45 yards in a 27-10 playoff win against the Cleveland Browns following 1982 season.
9: Cincinnati Bengals QB Ken Anderson (swingman finished Augustana IL career in early 1970s as fifth-leading scorer in school history with 1,044 points) threw two first-quarter touchdown passes in a 44-17 playoff setback against the New York Jets following the 1982 season. . . . Bud Grant (third-leading scorer for Minnesota in 1948-49 after named team MVP previous season over first-team All-American Jim McIntyre) coached the Minnesota Vikings when they suffered a 32-14 setback against the Oakland Raiders in Super Bowl XI following 1976 season. . . . Minnesota Vikings TE Joe Senser (two-time NCAA Division I leader in FG% averaged 11.4 ppg and 7.4 rpg while shooting 66.2% from floor in four-year career for West Chester State PA) caught six passes for 81 yards in a 30-24 playoff win against the Atlanta Falcons following 1982 campaign. . . . Denver Broncos WR Kitrick Taylor (Washington State hooper in 1984-85 and 1986-87) had a 13-yard pass reception in 42-24 playoff setback against the Oakland Raiders following 1993 season. . . . Denver Broncos DE Marvin Washington (played in 1985 NCAA Tournament with UTEP under coach Don Haskins before averaging 2.9 ppg and 5.7 rpg for Idaho under Tim Floyd in 1987-88) had a sack in 38-3 win against the Miami Dolphins in AFC Divisional Round following 1998 season. . . . Dallas Cowboys rookie DE Peppi Zellner (averaged 10.3 ppg and team-high 9.1 rpg for Fort Valley State GA in 1997-98) had four tackles in a 27-10 playoff setback against the Minnesota Vikings following 1999 campaign.
10: Cincinnati Bengals QB Ken Anderson (swingman finished Augustana IL career in early 1970s as fifth-leading scorer in school history with 1,044 points) threw two touchdown passes in a 27-7 playoff win against the San Diego Chargers following 1981 season. . . . Tennessee Titans WR Justin Gage (averaged 2.1 ppg and 2.9 rpg for Missouri from 1999-00 through 2001-02) had 10 pass receptions for 135 yards in a 13-10 playoff setback against the Baltimore Ravens following 2008 season. . . . Minnesota Vikings TE Andrew Glover (All-SWAC second-team selection as senior in 1990-91 when leading Grambling with 16.2 ppg and 8.6 rpg while pacing league in field-goal shooting) caught a touchdown pass from Randall Cunningham in 41-21 playoff win against the Arizona Cardinals following 1998 season. . . . St. Louis Rams WR Dane Looker (averaged 4.8 ppg as Western Washington freshman in 1995-96 and 10.2 ppg as sophomore in 1996-97 before transferring to Washington and concentrating on football) caught two passes for 31 yards and a two-point conversion late in fourth quarter of 29-23 NFC Divisional Round setback in double overtime against the Carolina Panthers following 2003 season. Rams LB Tommy Polley (played in one basketball game for Florida State in 1996-97 under coach Pat Kennedy) returned an interception 37 yards.
11: Chicago Bears DE Doug Atkins (third-leading scorer as Tennessee center with 9.9 ppg in 1950-51) named co-NFL Pro Bowl MVP following the 1958 season. . . . Cleveland Browns DE Sam Clancy (two-time Eastern 8 first-team selection ended career in 1981 as Pittsburgh's all-time leading rebounder) had a sack in his second straight playoff game following the 1986 campaign. . . . Bud Grant (third-leading scorer for Minnesota in 1948-49 after named team MVP previous season over first-team All-American Jim McIntyre) coached the Minnesota Vikings when they suffered a 23-7 setback against the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl IV following 1969 season. Vikings QB Joe Kapp (backup forward averaged 1.8 ppg and 1.2 rpg for California's PCC champions in 1957 and 1958) completed 16-of-25 passes for 183 yards. Vikings DB Charlie West (collected two points and one rebound in two UTEP basketball games in 1967-68 under coach Don Haskins) returned three kickoffs and two punts. Chiefs FL Otis Taylor (backup small forward for Prairie View A&M) caught a 46-yard touchdown pass from Len Dawson (Purdue hooper in 1956-57). . . . Philadelphia Eagles QB Donovan McNabb (averaged 2.3 points in 18 games for Syracuse in 1995-96 and 1996-97) threw two touchdown passes in a 20-17 playoff win against the Green Bay Packers following 2003 season.
12: Tampa Bay Buccaneers TE Rickey Dudley (averaged 13.3 ppg and 7.5 rpg as senior in 1994-95 when leading Ohio State in rebounding and finishing third in scoring) caught a 12-yard touchdown pass from Brad Johnson (part-time starting forward for Florida State as freshman in 1987-88 when averaging 5.9 ppg and shooting 89.1% from free-throw line) in 31-6 playoff win against the San Francisco 49ers following 2002 season. Johnson threw two second-quarter TD passes. . . . Weeb Ewbank (hoops letterman for Miami OH in 1926-27 and 1927-28) coached the New York Jets to a 16-7 victory against the Baltimore Colts in Super Bowl III following 1968 season. Jets DB Johnny Sample (freshman hooper for UMES) had an interception. . . . Bud Grant (third-leading scorer for Minnesota in 1948-49 after named team MVP previous season over first-team All-American Jim McIntyre) coached the Minnesota Vikings when they suffered a 16-6 setback against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Super Bowl IX following 1974 season. . . . Baltimore Ravens WR Jacoby Jones (part-time starter averaged 3.4 ppg and 3.7 rpg for Lane TN in 2004-05 and 2005-06) caught a 70-yard touchdown pass from Joe Flacco with 31 seconds remaining in regulation to tie the score before they won against the Denver Broncos, 38-35, in double overtime in playoff game following 2012 season. . . . Jacksonville Jaguars WR Matt Jones (started two of his 11 Arkansas games in 2001-02 when averaging 4.2 ppg and 2.3 rpg and 10 of 17 in 2003-04 when averaging 5 ppg and 4.5 rpg) opened the game's scoring with an eight-yard touchdown catch in a 31-20 playoff setback against the New England Patriots following 2007 season. . . . Philadelphia Eagles QB Donovan McNabb (averaged 2.3 points in 18 games for Syracuse in 1995-96 and 1996-97) threw two second-quarter touchdown passes in a 31-9 playoff win against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers following 2001 season. . . . New England Patriots TE Derrick Ramsey (grabbed three rebounds in two Kentucky games in 1975-76) caught a touchdown pass in 31-14 playoff win against the Miami Dolphins following 1985 season.
13: San Diego Chargers WR Chris Chambers (played hoops briefly for Wisconsin under coach Dick Bennett in 1997-98) caught a 30-yard touchdown pass from Philip Rivers in 28-24 playoff win against the Indianapolis Colts following 2007 season. Chargers WR Vincent Jackson (Northern Colorado's scoring leader with 13.6 ppg in 2003-04 while also contributing 5.6 rpg and 3.1 apg) had team highs of seven pass receptions and 93 receiving yards. . . . Miami Dolphins DE Vern Den Herder (finished Central College IA career in 1970-71 as school's all-time leading scorer and rebounder) delivered a sack in 24-7 win against the Minnesota Vikings in Super Bowl VIII following 1973 season. Bud Grant (third-leading scorer for Minnesota in 1948-49 after named team MVP previous season over first-team All-American Jim McIntyre) coached the Vikings. . . . WR Terrell Owens (UTC hooper from 1993-94 through 1995-96 started five games) opened the Dallas Cowboys' scoring with a five-yard touchdown pass from Tony Romo in 21-17 playoff setback against the New York Giants following 2007 season. . . . San Francisco 49ers WR Tai Streets (collected four points and seven rebounds in 13 games for Michigan's NIT titlist in 1997 under coach Steve Fisher) caught a game-tying touchdown pass from Jeff Garcia in fourth quarter of 25-15 wild-card setback against the Green Bay Packers following 2001 season.
14: Following the 1961 season, Cleveland Browns FB Jim Brown (#2-scorer with 14 ppg for Syracuse as sophomore in 1954-55 before averaging 11.3 as junior) earned his first of three NFL Pro Bowl MVP awards in a five-year span. . . . New Orleans Saints TE Jimmy Graham (part-time starter for Miami FL averaged 4.2 ppg and 4.2 rpg from 2005-06 through 2008-09) caught two touchdown passes from Drew Brees - including 66-yarder - in a 36-32 playoff setback against the San Francisco 49ers following 2011 season. . . . Cleveland Browns QB Otto Graham (Big Ten Conference runner-up in scoring as Northwestern sophomore in 1941-42 and junior in 1942-43) named NFL Pro Bowl MVP following the 1950 season. . . . Green Bay Packers LB Dave Robinson (made two free throws and grabbed five rebounds in two basketball games for Penn State in 1960-61) returned a fumble 16 yards in 33-14 win against the Oakland Raiders in Super Bowl II following 1967 season.
15: Kansas City Chiefs TE Reg Carolan (Idaho three-year letterman in early 1960s averaged 4 ppg and 4.7 rpg) had a seven-yard pass reception in 35-10 setback against the Green Bay Packers in Super Bowl I following 1966 campaign. . . . Baltimore Ravens TE Todd Heap (grabbed 14 rebounds in 11 games for Arizona State in 1999-00) caught a four-yard touchdown pass from Joe Flacco in 31-24 playoff setback against the Pittsburgh Steelers following 2010 season. . . . St. Louis Rams WR Dane Looker (averaged 4.8 ppg as Western Washington freshman in 1995-96 and 10.2 ppg as sophomore in 1996-97 before transferring to Washington and concentrating on football) caught three passes for 38 yards and rushed once for 11 yards in a 47-17 NFC Divisional Round setback against the Atlanta Falcons following 2004 season. Rams LB Tommy Polley (played in one basketball game for Florida State in 1996-97 under coach Pat Kennedy) had nine solo tackles. . . . Pittsburgh Steelers WR Antwaan Randle El (member of Indiana's 1999 NCAA Tournament team) opened the game's scoring with a six-yard touchdown pass from Ben Roethlisberger in 21-18 playoff win against the Indianapolis Colts following 2005 season.
16: Dallas Cowboys TE Mike Ditka (averaged 2.8 ppg and 2.6 rpg for Pittsburgh in 1958-59 and 1959-60) caught a seven-yard touchdown pass from Roger Staubach (Navy varsity hooper in 1962-63) in 24-3 win against the Miami Dolphins in Super Bowl VI following 1971 season. Staubach threw two TD passes in the game. . . . Philadelphia Eagles QB Donovan McNabb (averaged 2.3 points in 18 games for Syracuse in 1995-96 and 1996-97) threw two first-half touchdown passes in a 27-14 playoff win against the Minnesota Vikings following 2004 season. . . . San Francisco 49ers E Billy Wilson (averaged 3.3 ppg as senior letterman for San Jose State in 1950-51) named NFL Pro Bowl MVP following the 1954 season.
17: San Diego Chargers TE Antonio Gates (second-team All-MAC selection in 2002 when Kent State finished runner-up in South Regional) had eight pass receptions in a 17-14 playoff setback against the New York Jets following 2009 season. Chargers WR Vincent Jackson (Northern Colorado's scoring leader with 13.6 ppg in 2003-04 while also contributing 5.6 rpg and 3.1 apg) had seven receptions for 111 receiving yards. . . . Baltimore Colts TE John Mackey (Syracuse hooper in 1960-61) caught a 75-yard touchdown pass from Johnny Unitas in 16-13 win against the Dallas Cowboys in Super Bowl V following 1970 season.
18: Dallas Cowboys TE Jean Fugett (leading scorer and rebounder for Amherst MA as junior in 1970-71) had a pass reception in 21-17 setback against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Super Bowl X following 1975 season. Cowboys WR Percy Howard (All-OVC selection as senior averaged 12.4 ppg and 7.3 rpg for Austin Peay from 1972-73 through 1974-75) caught a 34-yard touchdown pass from Roger Staubach (Navy varsity hooper in 1962-63) in the fourth quarter. Staubach threw two TD passes in the game. . . . Philadelphia Eagles QB Donovan McNabb (averaged 2.3 points in 18 games for Syracuse in 1995-96 and 1996-97) threw three second-half touchdown passes in a 32-25 playoff setback against the Arizona Cardinals following 2008 season. . . . Indianapolis Colts TE Marcus Pollard (JC transfer averaged 7.3 ppg and 5 rpg for Bradley in 1992-93 and 1993-94) had a game-high 90 receiving yards in 24-14 playoff setback against the New England Patriots following 2003 season.
19: Philadelphia Eagles QB Donovan McNabb (averaged 2.3 points in 18 games for Syracuse in 1995-96 and 1996-97) threw two touchdown passes in a 33-19 playoff win against the Chicago Bears following 2001 season. . . . Denver Broncos TE Julius Thomas (averaged 6.8 ppg and 4.3 rpg while shooting 66.3% from floor with Portland State from 2006-07 through 2009-10) had playoff career-high eight pass receptions in a 26-16 win against the New England Patriots following 2013 season.
20: San Diego Chargers WR Chris Chambers (played hoops briefly for Wisconsin under coach Dick Bennett in 1997-98) had a playoff career-high seven pass receptions in 21-12 setback against the New England Patriots following 2007 season. . . . Atlanta Falcons TE Tony Gonzalez (averaged 6.4 ppg and 4.3 rpg for California from 1994-95 through 1996-97) had eight pass receptions - one for touchdown - in a 28-24 playoff setback against the San Francisco 49ers following 2012 season. . . . DB R.W. McQuarters (Oklahoma State hooper in 1995-96 and 1996-97 started two games) had an interception in his third consecutive playoff game to help the New York Giants reach Super Bowl XLII following 2007 season. . . . St. Louis Rams rookie LB Tommy Polley (played in one basketball game for Florida State in 1996-97 under coach Pat Kennedy) had two interceptions, returning one 34 yards for a touchdown, in 45-17 win against the Green Bay Packers in NFC Divisional Round following 2001 campaign.
21: Dallas Cowboys QB Roger Staubach (Navy varsity hooper in 1962-63) threw three touchdown passes in a 35-31 setback against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Super Bowl XIII following 1978 season.
22: Green Bay Packers CB Quinten Rollins (led Miami OH in steals all four seasons from 2010-11 through 2013-14 including Mid-American Conference as senior) had four tackles in a 44-21 setback against the Atlanta Falcons in NFC championship game following 2016 season. Packers LB Julius Peppers (averaged 5.7 ppg and 3.7 rpg while shooting 60.7% from floor for North Carolina in 1999-00 and 2000-01) chipped in with two tackles.
23: Philadelphia Eagles QB Donovan McNabb (averaged 2.3 points in 18 games for Syracuse in 1995-96 and 1996-97) threw two touchdown passes in a 27-10 playoff win against the Atlanta Falcons following 2004 season.
24: QB Ken Anderson (swingman finished Augustana IL career in early 1970s as fifth-leading scorer in school history with 1,044 points) accounted for all three of the Cincinnati Bengals' three touchdowns (two passing/one rushing in second half) in a 26-21 setback against the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XVI following 1981 season. . . . Green Bay Packers LB Fred Carr (played for defending NCAA champion Texas Western in 1967 playoffs) shared the NFL Pro Bowl MVP award following 1970 season. . . . Arizona Cardinals TE Darren Fells (averaged 10.2 ppg and 6.3 rpg from 2004-05 through 2007-08, leading UCI in rebounding each of last three seasons) caught a 21-yard touchdown pass from Carson Palmer in 49-15 setback against the Charlotte Panthers in NFC championship game following 2015 season.
25: New York Giants DE George Martin (Oregon teammate of freshman sensation Ron Lee in 1972-73) tackled John Elway for a safety in 39-20 win against the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XXI following 1986 season.
26: Mike Ditka (averaged 2.8 ppg and 2.6 rpg for Pittsburgh in 1958-59 and 1959-60) coached Chicago Bears to a 46-10 win against the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XX following 1985 season. Patriots TE Derrick Ramsey (grabbed three rebounds in two Kentucky games in 1975-76) caught two passes for 16 yards. . . . Tampa Bay Buccaneers QB Brad Johnson (part-time starting forward for Florida State as freshman in 1987-88 when averaging 5.9 ppg and shooting 89.1% from free-throw line) threw two touchdown passes in a 48-21 win against the Oakland Raiders in Super Bowl XXXVII following 2002 season. . . . Buffalo Bills TE Pete Metzelaars (averaged 19.2 ppg and 11.4 rpg for Wabash IN while setting NCAA Division III field-goal shooting records for single season as senior in 1981-82 and career) caught a two-yard touchdown pass from Jim Kelly in 37-24 setback against the Washington Redskins in Super Bowl XXVI following 1991 season. . . . Green Bay Packers WR Andre Rison (backup hoops guard for Michigan State in 1987-88) opened the game's scoring with a 54-yard touchdown reception from Brett Favre in 35-21 win against the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XXXI following 1996 season.
29: Bobby Ross (averaged 3 ppg as VMI freshman in 1955-56) coached the San Diego Chargers when they lost against the San Francisco 49ers, 49-26, in Super Bowl XXIX following 1994 season.
30: Buffalo Bills coach Marv Levy (earned hoops letter with Coe IA in 1949-50) lost his fourth consecutive Super Bowl game (30-13 against Dallas Cowboys following 1993 season). Bills TE Keith McKeller (starting center for Jacksonville State's 1985 NCAA Division II championship team led Gulf South Conference in rebounding each of his first three seasons and finished second as senior) had at least one pass reception in his fourth straight Super Bowl.
31: Denver Broncos WR Rod Smith (swingman was Missouri Southern State hoops letterman as sophomore in 1990-91) caught an 80-yard touchdown pass from John Elway in 34-19 win against the Atlanta Falcons in Super Bowl XXXIII following 1998 season. Falcons rookie Ephraim Salaam (scored 22 points in five games for San Diego State in 1996-97) started at RT in their first-ever trip to NFL title tilt.
Impact of former college hoopers on professional football in December
Impact of former college hoopers on professional football in November
Impact of former college hoopers on professional football in October
Impact of former college hoopers on professional football in September
On This Date: January Calendar for Premier Games in NCAA Hoops History
Louisiana State's Pete Maravich, the NCAA's career scoring leader, still holds the all-time single-game scoring mark by an individual opponent against eight universities (Alabama, Auburn, Duquesne, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi State, Tulane and Vanderbilt). Do you know who holds the mark for highest output against the Tigers? It was achieved this month by Ole Miss' Johnny Neumann, who fired in a school-record 63 points at LSU the season after Maravich's eligibility expired.
This month also features UCLA's single-game rebounding record and the mark wasn't established by Lew Alcindor or Bill Walton. Speaking of rebounding, existing single-game standards against a Division I opponent for Lamar and Oral Roberts were set in the same contest in 1972 and USC's single-game mark against a DI foe came from two different players on the same day 22 years apart. In one of the most dominating performances of the 20th Century, Rick Barry set Miami FL scoring and rebounding records in the same game. Following is a day-by-day calendar citing memorable moments in January college basketball history:
JANUARY
1 - Hank Luisetti (50 points vs. Duquesne at Cleveland in 1938) set Stanford's single-game scoring record. . . . Seton Hall's school-record 46-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by William & Mary (57-55 in 1954). . . . Penn opposed Yale in 1927 in debut game at the legendary Palestra in Philadelphia. . . . Bailey Howell (34 vs. Louisiana State in 1957) set Mississippi State's single-game rebounding record.
2 - Georgia State's Chris Collier (49 points vs. Butler in 1991) and Wofford's Ian Chadwick (40 at Georgia Southern in 2001) set school Division I single-game scoring records. . . . Mississippi State's school-record 35-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Auburn (64-48 in 1960). . . . Morehead State's Steve Hamilton (38 vs. Florida State in 1957) and Murray State's Dick Cunningham (36 vs. MacMurray IL in 1967) set school single-game rebounding records. . . . Eventual MLB INF Jack Kubiszyn scored a career-high 47 points for Alabama in a game against Mississippi College in 1957.
3 - Markus Howard set Marquette scoring record and tied Big East Conference game standard (52 points at Providence in 2018). . . . Jamal Barney (41 at Canisius in 2009) set Division I single-game scoring record for Loyola (Md.). . . . Wake Forest snapped North Carolina State's school-record 36-game winning streak (83-78 in 1975). . . . Brigham Young's school-record 53-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Wake Forest (94-87 in 2009). . . . Pacific Coast Conference cellar dweller Oregon upset NCAA Tournament champion-to-be California in 1959. . . . DePaul's Ken Warzynski (28 vs. Harvard in 1970), Long Beach State's Michael Zeno (22 vs. Loyola Marymount in 1983) and Wisconsin's Paul Morrow (30 vs. Purdue in 1953) set school single-game rebounding records against a major-college opponent.
4 - Ball State's Chris Williams (48 points at Akron in overtime in 2003), Jacksonville State's Trenton Marshall (37 at Southeast Missouri State in 2010), Lamar's Mike James (52 vs. Louisiana College in 2011), Loyola Marymount's Bo Kimble (54 at St. Joseph's in 1990) and Texas-El Paso's Jim Barnes (51 vs. Western New Mexico in 1964) set school single-game scoring records. . . . In 2003, Butler's Darnell Archey established an NCAA Division I standard by converting his 74th of 85 consecutive free throws. . . . Illinois' school-record 31-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Iowa (60-59 in 1986). . . . Delaware's Jack Waddington (31 vs. Rutgers in 1956), Middle Tennessee State's Mike Milholland (32 vs. Austin Peay State in 1965), Nebraska's Bill Johnson (26 vs. Iowa State in 1954), Nevada's Pete Padgett (30 vs. Loyola Marymount in 1973) and Valparaiso's Chris Ensminger (24 vs. Northeastern Illinois in 1996) set school single-game rebounding records.
5 - Eastern Washington's Rodney Stuckey (45 points at Northern Arizona in 2006), Michigan State's Terry Furlow (50 vs. Iowa in 1976) and West Virginia's Hot Rod Hundley (54 vs. Furman in 1957) set school single-game scoring records. . . . Eastern Michigan's Derrick Dial (45 vs. Marshall in 1998) and Stephen F. Austin State's Scott Dimak (40 at Texas Southern in 1989) set school single-game scoring records against a DI opponent. . . . In 1991, Loyola Marymount's 186-point output is the highest in NCAA history by a team in a single game and Kevin Bradshaw's 72-point outburst for U.S. International CA is the most ever for a player against a major-college opponent. . . . Fairfield's Darren Phillip (25 vs. Marist in 2000), Texas-San Antonio's Lennell Moore (25 vs. Centenary in 1987) and Tulane's Mel Payton (31 vs. Mississippi State in 1951) set school single-game rebounding records against a DI opponent. . . . Sacramento State's NCAA-record 56-game losing streak away from home (road and neutral sites) ended with a 68-56 success at Loyola of Chicago in 1995.
6 - Drexel's John Rankin (44 points vs. Rider in 1988), Pepperdine's William "Bird" Averitt (57 vs. Nevada-Reno in 1973) and Xavier's Steve Thomas (50 vs. Detroit in 1964) set school single-game scoring records. Averitt's output is also a West Coast Conference record in league competition. . . . Ernie Losch (41 vs. Utah State in 1973) set Tulane's single-game scoring record against a Division I opponent. . . . Bob Mortell (24 vs. Virginia Military in 1960) set Virginia's single-game rebounding record against a DI opponent.
7 - UC Riverside's Rickey Porter (40 points at Pacific in 2006), Campbell's Clarence Grier (39 vs. Virginia Wesleyan in 1987), Michigan's Rudy Tomjanovich (48 vs. Indiana in overtime in 1969) and Southwest Texas State's Lynwood Wade (42 vs. Sam Houston State in double overtime in 1993) set school Division I single-game scoring records. . . . Odell Johnson (40 vs. Pepperdine in 1956) set Saint Mary's single-game scoring record against a major-college opponent. . . . North Carolina hit an NCAA-record 94.1% of its second-half field-goal attempts (16-of-17 vs. Virginia in 1978). . . . Niagara's Gary Bossert set an NCAA single-game record by hitting 11 consecutive three-point field-goal attempts against Siena in 1987. . . . Long Beach State ended UNLV's Big West Conference-record 40-game winning streak (101-94 in 1993), Pacific's school-record 45-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Long Beach State (91-85 in 1973), Tennessee's school-record 37-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Gonzaga (89-79 in overtime) and UNLV's school-record 72-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by New Mexico (102-98 in 1978). . . . Alex "Boo" Ellis (31 vs. Kent State in 1957) set Niagara's single-game rebounding record.
8 - Arizona State's Eddie House (61 points at California in double overtime in 2000) set the school and tied the Pac-12 Conference single-game scoring record. . . . Michael Hicks (47 points at Cal Poly in overtime in 2001) set Texas A&M-Corpus Christi's single-game scoring record. . . . Georgia Tech snapped Kentucky's NCAA-record 129-game homecourt winning streak and SEC-record 51-game winning streak in 1955. . . . Nelson Richardson (26 vs. Manhattan in 1977) set Siena's single-game rebounding record.
9 - Cincinnati sophomore Oscar Robertson (56 points) personally outscored Seton Hall in a 118-54 rout of the Pirates at Madison Square Garden in 1958. . . . Alabama's Jerry Harper (28 vs. Mississippi State in 1956), Texas-Arlington's Albert Culton (24 vs. Northeastern in 1981), Villanova's Howard Porter (30 vs. St. Peter's in 1971) and Virginia Tech's Chris Smith (36 vs. Washington & Lee VA in 1959) set school single-game rebounding records against a major-college opponent.
10 - Connecticut's Bill Corley (51 points vs. New Hampshire in 1968), John Conforti of St. Francis NY (45 vs. Wagner in 1970), Washington's Bob Houbregs (49 vs. Idaho in 1953) and Winthrop's Melvin Branham (45 at Charleston Southern in 1994) set school single-game scoring records. . . . Navy's David Robinson (45 at James Madison in 1987) set CAA scoring record in league competition. . . . Saint Joseph's and Xavier combined to have an NCAA-record eight players foul out in 1976. . . . Connecticut's school-record 31-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Marquette (73-69 in 2007) and Western Kentucky's school-record 67-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Xavier (82-80 in overtime in 1955). . . . Ed Diddle made his Western Kentucky head coaching debut in 1923 with a 103-7 decision over the Adairville Independents en route to a school-record 759 victories. . . . Kentucky's Adolph Rupp became the coach to compile 500 victories the fastest with a 92-59 win over DePaul in 1955 (584 games in 23rd season). . . . Louisiana-Lafayette's Roy Ebron (28 vs. Northwestern State in 1972) and Vanderbilt's Clyde Lee (28 vs. Mississippi in 1966) set school single-game rebounding records.
11 - Don Scaife (43 points at Samford in 1975) set Arkansas State's Division I single-game scoring record. . . . Texas Tech's school-record 35-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Colorado (80-78 in 1997). . . . Alcorn State's Larry Smith (21 vs. Mississippi Valley State in 1979), UC Santa Barbara's Eric McArthur (28 vs. New Mexico State in 1990) and Dartmouth's Rudy LaRusso (32 vs. Columbia in 1958) set school single-game rebounding records against a DI opponent. . . . Bill Clark (23 vs. Oakland in 1973) set Ball State's single-game rebounding record at DI level.
12 - Bucknell's Al Leslie (45 points vs. American in 1980) set the East Coast Conference single-game scoring record. . . . Mike Olliver (50 at Portland State in 1980) set Lamar's single-game scoring record against a Division I opponent. . . . Iowa State's school-record 39-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Oklahoma State (69-66 in 2002) and Michigan State's school-record 53-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Wisconsin (64-63 in 2002). . . . Marshall's Charlie Slack (43 vs. Morris Harvey in 1954), Monmouth's Karl Towns (23 vs. Morgan State in 1985) and Robert Morris' Mike Morton (20 vs. Baltimore in 1980) set school single-game rebounding records.
13 - Boise State's Chandler Hutchison (44 points vs. San Diego State in 2018), Bowling Green's Jim Darrow (52 vs. Toledo in overtime in 1960), Cal Poly's Shanta Cotright (43 vs. George Mason in 1996), Charleston Southern's Dwyane Jackson (43 at Virginia Military in 2007), Kentucky's Jodie Meeks (54 at Tennessee in 2009), Sacramento State's Loren Leath (41 at Northern Colorado in 2009), Southeastern Louisiana's Sam Bowie (39 at Central Florida in 1996), Southeast Missouri State's Daimon Gonner (37 at Tennessee State in double overtime in 2005) and UAB's Andy Kennedy (41 vs. Saint Louis in 1991) set school Division I single-game scoring records. . . . Oklahoma ended Kansas' NCAA-record 35-game winning streak on the road, 45-19, in 1928. . . . Marquette's school-record 81-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Notre Dame (71-69 in 1973). . . . Doug Hess (27 vs. Marshall in 1971) tied Toledo's single-game rebounding record against a DI opponent.
14 - Syracuse's Bill Smith (47 points vs. Lafayette in 1971) and Virginia Commonwealth's Chris Cheeks (42 vs. Old Dominion in overtime in 1989) set school Division I single-game scoring records. . . . Damon Stoudamire (45 at Stanford in 1995) set Arizona's single-game scoring record against a DI opponent.
15 - Coppin State's school-record 42-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by North Carolina A&T (76-70 in 1997), Murray State's school-record 47-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Southeast Missouri State (84-78 in 2000) and Virginia's school-record 34-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by North Carolina (101-95 in 1983). . . . Texas-Pan American ended its NCAA-record 64-game road losing streak with a 79-62 triumph at Oral Roberts in 2000. . . . Bob Reiter (27 vs. Kansas State in 1955) set Missouri's single-game rebounding record. . . . . Bob Lazor (23 vs. Penn State in 1955) set Pittsburgh's single-game rebounding record against a major-college opponent.
16 - Columbia's school-record 34-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Penn (66-64 in 1952).
17 - New Mexico State's John Williamson (48 points at California in 1972) and UNC Wilmington's Brian Rowsom (39 at East Carolina in 1987) set school single-game scoring records. . . . Virginia Military's school-record 35-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Appalachian State (73-58 in 1979). . . . Steve Stiepler (22 vs. Charleston Southern in 1977) set James Madison's single-game rebounding record.
18 - Stan Mayhew (45 points vs. Utah State in 1977) set Weber State's single-game scoring record. . . . Damon Lynn (34 at North Carolina A&T in 2014) set NJIT's single-game scoring record at the NCAA Division I level. . . . A weekly ritual began when the Associated Press announced results of its first weekly basketball poll in 1949 (SLU was initial #1). . . . Indiana State's Jim Cruse (25 vs. Drake in 1997) and North Texas' Ken Williams (29 vs. Lamar in 1978) set school single-game rebounding records.
19 - UC Davis' Corey Hawkins (40 points at Hawaii in 2013), Charleston Southern's Ben Hinson (43 vs. Edward Waters FL in 1985) and New Hampshire's Brad Cirino (39 at Maine in four overtimes in 1996) set school Division I single-game scoring records. . . . Jim Ashmore (45 vs. Mississippi in 1957) set Mississippi State's single-game scoring record against a DI opponent. . . . Notre Dame came from behind in the closing minutes to end visiting UCLA's NCAA-record 88-game winning streak in 1974. . . . George Mason's Andre Smith set an NCAA single-game record by sinking all 10 of his shots from beyond the three-point arc against James Madison in 2008. . . . Ron deVries (24 vs. Pacific in 1974) set Illinois State's single-game rebounding record against a DI opponent. . . . Chris Street, Iowa's top rebounder with 9.5 per game, died instantly in 1993 in a collision between the car he was driving and a county dumptruck/snowplow.
20 - Austin Peay's James "Fly" Williams (51 points vs. Tennessee Tech in 1973), Fordham's Ken Charles (46 vs. St. Peter's in 1973), Memphis State's Larry Finch (48 vs. St. Joseph's IN in 1973) and Oklahoma City's Gary Gray (55 at West Texas State in 1967) set school Division I single-game scoring records. . . . Houston ended UCLA's 47-game winning streak (71-69 in Astrodome in 1968), Minnesota's school-record 40-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Nebraska (22-21 in 1905) and West Virginia's school-record 39-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by St. Bonaventure (64-63 in 1983). . . . Visiting Texas-El Paso snapped Memphis' NCAA-record 52-game winning streak in regular-season conference competition (C-USA/72-67 in 2010). . . . Cliff Robinson (28 vs. Portland State in 1978) and David Bluthenthal (28 vs. Arizona State in 2000) set and tied Southern California's single-game rebounding record against a DI opponent.
21 - Howard's Ron Williamson (52 points vs. North Carolina A&T in 2003) and Saint Joseph's Jack Egan (47 at Gettysburg PA in 1961) set school single-game scoring records. . . . Kansas' school-record 69-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Texas (74-63 in 2011) and DePaul's school-record 36-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Dayton (67-63 in 1985). . . . Terry Rutherford (21 vs. Marshall in 1978) set Western Carolina's single-game rebounding record against a Division I opponent.
22 - Lee Campbell (20 vs. Cleveland State in 1990) tied his own Missouri State single-game rebounding record against a Division I opponent.
23 - Eastern Illinois' Jay Taylor (47 points vs. Chicago State in 1989), Middle Tennessee State's Mike Milholland (44 vs. Austin Peay in 1965), Nicholls State's Anatoly Bose (46 at Northwestern State in double overtime in 2010), South Florida's Dominique Jones (46 at Providence in overtime in 2010) and Tennessee State's Anthony Mason (44 at Eastern Kentucky in 1988) set school Division I single-game scoring records. . . . Jacksonville's James Ray (45 vs. South Florida in 1980) set Sun Belt Conference single-game scoring record in league competition. . . . Northeastern's Steve Carney (23 vs. Hartford in 1988) and Ohio University's Howard Joliff (28 vs. Kent State in 1960) set school single-game rebounding records against a DI opponent.
24 - Appalachian State's Stan Davis (56 points at Carson-Newman TN in 1974), Chattanooga's Oliver Morton (50 vs. Pikeville KY in 2001), IUPUI's Odell Bradley (41 vs. Oral Roberts in triple overtime in 2004), Loyola of New Orleans' Ty Marioneaux (53 vs. Virginia Commonwealth in 1970), Oakland's Travis Bader (47 vs. IUPUI in 2013) and Texas-Arlington's Steven Barber (43 at Texas-San Antonio in 2002) set school Division I single-game scoring records. . . . San Diego State's Ben Wardrop set an NCAA record for shortest playing time before disqualification by fouling out in only 1:11 at Colorado State in 2004. . . . Notre Dame's school-record 45-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Connecticut (69-61 in 2009).
25 - Connell "C.J." Wilkerson (41 points at North Carolina A&T in 2011) set North Carolina Central's single-game scoring record against a Division I opponent. . . . Southern's Avery Johnson tied an NCAA single-game record against DI opponent with 22 assists against Texas Southern in 1988. . . . Brigham Young's school-record 44-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Utah (79-75 in 2003). . . . East Carolina's Erroyl Bing (24 vs. South Florida in 2003), Kansas State's David Hall (27 vs. Oklahoma in 1971), Lamar's Steve Wade (27 vs. Oral Roberts in 1972), Oral Roberts' Eddie Woods (30 vs. Lamar in 1972) and Seton Hall's Nick Werkman (32 vs. Boston College in 1963) set school single-game rebounding records against a DI opponent. . . . The final 36 seconds of Ohio State's 50-44 win at Minnesota in 1972 were not played after a melee ensued following a flagrant foul on Buckeyes center Luke Witte as he attempted a layup. The Gophers, despite a pair of remainder-of-season suspensions, went on to capture the Big Ten Conference championship while OSU finished runner-up.
26 - Gonzaga's Frank Burgess (52 points vs. UC Davis in 1961) and Youngstown State's Tilman Bevely (55 vs. Tennessee Tech in 1987) set school Division I single-game scoring records. Bevely's output also tied Ohio Valley Conference record in league competition. . . . Arizona and Northern Arizona combined for an NCAA-record 130 free-throw attempts in 1953. . . . Herb Neff (36 vs. Georgia Tech in 1952) set Tennessee's single-game rebounding record.
27 - Georgia Southern's Johnny Mills (44 points vs. Samford in 1973), Indiana's Jimmy Rayl (56 vs. Minnesota in 1962), James Madison's Steve Stiepler (51 vs. Robert Morris in 1979), UNC Greensboro's Trevis Simpson (41 vs. Chattanooga in 2013) and West Texas State's Simmie Hill (42 at Texas Western in 1968) set school Division I single-game scoring records. . . . Visiting New Mexico State overcame a 28-0 deficit to defeat Bradley in 1977. . . . Big Ten Conference perennial cellar dweller Northwestern upset Magic Johnson and NCAA Tournament champion-to-be Michigan State by 18 points in 1979 and Big Eight Conference sixth-place finisher Nebraska upset Danny Manning and NCAA playoff champion-to-be Kansas in 1988. . . . Centenary's Robert Parish (33 vs. Southern Mississippi in 1973) and Florida's Neal Walk (31 vs. Alabama in 1968) set school single-game rebounding records.
28 - Syracuse's Sherman Douglas tied an NCAA single-game record with 22 assists against Providence in 1989. . . . Jim Loscutoff of Oregon (32 vs. Brigham Young in 1955), Maurice Stokes of Saint Francis PA (39 vs. John Carroll OH in 1955) and Willie Naulls of UCLA (28 vs. Arizona State in 1956) set school single-game rebounding records. . . . Barney Cable (28 vs. Marquette in 1956) set Bradley's single-game rebounding record against a major-college opponent.
29 - Arkansas State's Jeff Clifton (43 points vs. Arkansas-Little Rock in 1994), Jacksonville's Ernie Fleming (59 vs. St. Peter's in 1972), Seton Hall's Nick Werkman (52 vs. Scranton PA in 1964), Utah Valley's Ryan Toolson (63 at Chicago State in quadruple overtime in 2009), Vermont's Eddie Benton (54 vs. Drexel in 1994) and Wagner's Terrance Bailey (49 vs. Brooklyn in triple overtime in 1986) set school Division I single-game scoring records. Benton's output is also an America East Conference record in league competition. . . . Big East Conference West Division cellar dweller Rutgers upset Carmelo Anthony and NCAA Tournament champion-to-be Syracuse in 2003. . . . Columbia's Jacob "Jack" Molinas (31 vs. Brown in 1953), North Carolina State's Ronnie Shavlik (35 vs. Villanova in 1955) and Penn State's Jesse Arnelle (27 vs. Temple in 1955) set school single-game rebounding records.
30 - Maryland-Eastern Shore's Tee Trotter (42 points at Howard in overtime in 2003), Mississippi's Johnny Neumann (63 at Louisiana State in 1971), New Orleans' Ledell Eackles (45 at Florida International in 1988), Seattle's Elgin Baylor (60 vs. Portland in 1958), Tennessee Tech's Kevin Murphy (50 vs. SIU-Edwardsville in 2012) and Western Kentucky's Clem Haskins (55 vs. Middle Tennessee State in 1965) set school Division I single-game scoring records. Haskins' output is also an Ohio Valley Conference record in league competition. . . . Rick Barry (51 vs. Oklahoma City in 1965) set Miami's single-game scoring record against a major-college opponent. . . . William & Mary ended West Virginia's Southern Conference-record 44-game winning streak in 1960. . . . UC Irvine's Kevin Magee (25 vs. Long Beach State in 1982), Miami's Rick Barry (29 vs. Oklahoma City in 1965) and Oklahoma State's Andy Hopson (27 vs. Missouri in 1973) set school single-game rebounding records.
31 - LSU's Pete Maravich, despite having 13 regular-season games remaining in 1970, passed Cincinnati's Oscar Robertson (2,973 points from 1957-58 through 1959-60) with 4:43 left against Mississippi to become the NCAA's career scoring leader. . . . Gerhard "Jerry" Varn (51 points vs. Piedmont GA in 1953) set The Citadel's single-game scoring record. . . . Holy Cross' Jim McCaffrey (46 vs. Iona in 1985) set MAAC scoring record in league competition. . . . Loyola Marymount outgunned U.S. International CA (181-150 in 1989) in the highest-scoring game in major-college history. . . . Manhattan's Bruce Seals established an NCAA single-game record with 27 three-point field-goal attempts (making nine vs. Canisius in 2000). . . . Canisius' Darren Fenn (22 vs. Manhattan in 2000), George Mason's Kenny Sanders (22 vs. American in 1989), Loyola Marymount's Hank Gathers (29 vs. U.S. International CA in 1989), Princeton's Carl Belz (29 vs. Rutgers in 1959) and St. Bonaventure's Bob Lanier (23 vs. Niagara in 1970) set school single-game rebounding records against a DI opponent.
Memorable Moments in December College Basketball History
Memorable Moments in November College Basketball History
In Memoriam: RIP Look at 2018 Deceased Who Impacted College Basketball
With Auld Lang Syne chords playing in the background, the final day of the calendar year offered another time to say goodbye by acknowledging the passing away in 2018 of a striking number of movers and shakers who impacted major-college basketball. The NCAA Division I deceased list included All-Americans such as Lawrence Butler (Idaho State), Len Chappell (Wake Forest), Bill Hanson (Washington), Tony Hanson (Connecticut), Mel Hutchins (Brigham Young), George Kaftan (Holy Cross), Bill Logan (Iowa), Bob Mattick (Oklahoma A&M), Willie Murrell (Kansas State), Willie Naulls (UCLA), Bob Patterson (Tulsa), Frank Ramsey (Kentucky), Clifford Rozier (Louisville), Gene Tormohlen (Tennessee) and Jo Jo White (Kansas). Tex Winter, Murrell's coach for 1964 Final Four squad, also passed away as did fellow '64 national semifinalist coach Vic Bubas (Duke). Joining Chappell, Kaftan, Murrell, Ramsey and Rozier among former F4 regulars dying this year were Eric Anderson (Indiana), Bret Bearup (Kentucky), Elmer Behnke (Bradley), Donnie Forman (NYU), J.L. Parks (Oklahoma A&M), Kendall Sheets (Oklahoma A&M), Bernie Simpson (California), Howard Stacey (Louisville), Daryl Thomas (Indiana), Ron Thomas (Louisville) and Taylor Thorne (North Carolina).
Bud Olsen joined Rozier, Stacey and Thomas among Louisville luminaries and three Oklahoma State frontcourt standouts dying in 2018. Louisiana-Lafayette, which had an ex-Cajun starter or signee 36 or younger die each of the previous two years, was treated cruelly again in 2018 as three former hoopers 45 or younger perished. Brothers Gary and Roy Stoll - Indiana products who combined to start for SEC member Tulane much of the 1950s - both passed away in 2018.
An estimated 350 World War II veterans die daily. Parks and Thorne joined former college hoopers/WWII vets Bob Ambler, Gene Berce, Charles Binford, Jim Blozie, Preston Brimball, Costin Bufkin, Mike Cokinos, Joe Crowley, Billy Dale, Lou Desci, Frank Dulapa, Bobby Giles, Betrram Goddard, Bill Hailey, Ralph Hale, Bob Haring, Dick Lynch, Bob Malott, Walter McCarthy, Robert Mehl, John Mitchell, Ed Moeller, Jimmy Nutter, Billy Parker, John Parks, Ray Penno, Bob Prewitt, Jim Riffey, Charlie "Pete" Robinson, Howie Schueller, John Schwartz, Ron Siegrist, Milt Simon, Joe Stottlebower, Troye Svendson, Taylor Thorne, Garland Townes, Calvin Wunsch and Marty Zippel deserving an extra salute as they are among the following alphabetical list of deceased in 2018 who didn't drop the ball on the court:
- Ron Abegglen, 81, compiled a 151-84 coaching record for Weber State in eight seasons from 1991-92 through 1998-99. In his final campaign with the Wildcats, he became the only mentor since the NCAA eliminated first-round byes in 1980 to defeat North Carolina in the first round of national playoffs.
- James "Gerry" Alaimo, 82, averaged 14.1 ppg and 11.8 rpg for Brown from 1955-56 through 1957-58. All-Ivy League second-team selection as a senior finished among the Bears top two in scoring and rebounding all three seasons. He coached his alma mater to an 88-145 record in nine seasons from 1969-70 through 1977-78.
- Billy Allgood, 87, was a four-year Southern Mississippi letterman in the early 1950s under coach Lee Floyd, the father of long-time NCAA Division I mentor Tim Floyd. Teammate of Minneapolis Lakers draft choice and New Orleans product Nick "The Cat" Revon went on to coach Louisiana College for 26 seasons (including upset win at UTEP over Naismith Hall of Fame bench boss Don Haskins plus triumphs over Tulane and Mississippi State from 1967-68 through 1969-70). From 1964-65 through 1974-75, LC beat six eventual DI in-state schools at least five times apiece - Louisiana Tech, McNeese State, Nicholls State, Northeast Louisiana, Northwestern State and Southeastern Louisiana. Notre Dame's all-time winningest coach Mike Brey, as a guard for Northwestern State, lost four consecutive contests against Allgood-coached LC squads from 1977-78 through 1979-80. Allgood also broke the color barrier in Louisiana late in 1969-70 campaign by upending #19 overall NBA draft pick Fred Hilton-led Grambling, 71-52, in contest featuring the first time a predominantly white school in state competed against HBCU. He had two pupils picked in NBA draft in the 1970s (Billy Jones was fourth-round choice by the Baltimore Bullets in 1970 and Paul Poe was seventh-round selection by Utah Jazz in 1979). Allgood, who played minor-league baseball in 1954, personally constructed LC's baseball facility bearing his name (Yankees' Cy Young Award winner Ron "Louisiana Lightning" Guidry of USL won first contest there in 1970), coaching the school in more than 1,000 baseball games including a historic upset of defending College World Series champion LSU in 1994 (first time an NAIA institution defeated a reigning NCAA DI titlist).
- Vern Altemeyer, 80, was a Transylvania KY transfer who averaged 4.7 ppg and 4.1 rpg for Illinois in 1958-59 and 1959-60 under coach Harry Combes.
- Bob Ambler, 93, averaged 8.6 ppg for Arkansas from 1948-49 through 1950-51, leading the Razorbacks' NCAA tourney team in scoring as a sophomore when earning All-SWC second-team selection acclaim. Served in U.S. Army during WWII taken up in gliders where he was quietly flown in behind enemy lines at night to do demolition work destroying strategic targets.
- Keith Amerson, 50, averaged 5.2 ppg and 3.6 rpg for Kansas State in 1989-90 and 1990-91 under coach Dana Altman. Juco recruit was captain and team-leading rebounder as senior.
- Eric Anderson, 48, averaged 13.1 ppg and 6.3 rpg as four-year starter for Indiana from 1988-89 through 1991-92 under coach Bob Knight. Member of 1992 Final Four team after leading the Hoosiers in rebounding each of his first three seasons.
- Glenn Angelino, 67, averaged 4.7 ppg and 1.9 rpg for Iowa from 1970-71 through 1972-73.
- Bill Atkinson, 90, averaged 6 ppg as Florida's senior captain in 1948-49. Track athlete was introduced to the sport of polo at the age of 27 and commenced a 43-year career, winning the U.S. Open Polo Championship in 1969 and 1973.
- Jack Avina, 89, is Portland's all-time winningest coach (222-243 record in 17 seasons from 1970-71 through 1986-87).
- Karim Sameh Azab, 22, was backup center from Egypt when diagnosed with leukemia lymphoma as Memphis was preparing to compete in 2018 AAC championship in Orlando.
- Marty Badoian, 90, averaged 7.1 ppg for Brown from 1949-50 through 1951-52 after a two-year stint in the U.S. Army. He was runner-up in team scoring as senior captain with 13.9 ppg.
- Cedric Bailey, 56, averaged 6.9 ppg and 2.6 rpg for Southern California from 1980-81 through 1983-84 under coach Stan Morrison. Bailey was named the Trojans' Most Improved Player in 1981-82 when they appeared in the NCAA playoffs.
- R. "Murray" Bailey, 85, averaged 14.5 ppg and 4.8 rpg for Baylor from 1952-53 through 1954-55 under coach Bill Henderson. Bailey, an All-SWC first-team selection as a senior, was the Bears' top scorer each of his last two seasons.
- Dr. Lee Barbach, 66, averaged 2.3 ppg and 1.1 rpg for Connecticut in 1970-71 and 1971-72.
- Bob Bass, 89, compiled a 22-15 coaching record with Texas Tech in two seasons in 1969-70 and 1970-71. He coached multiple ABA franchises.
- Dick Bass, 81, averaged 2.9 ppg for Oklahoma in 1956-57.
- Tim Bassett, 67, averaged 14.4 ppg and 13.6 rpg for Georgia in 1971-72 and 1972-73 after transferring from a juco. All-SEC second-team selection as senior when leading league in rebounding.
- Irwin Batnick, 92, averaged 8.4 ppg for Penn State in 1947-48.
- Howard Bayne, 75, averaged 7.2 ppg and 7.8 rpg for Tennessee from 1963-64 through 1965-66 under coach Ray Mears. Bayne led the Volunteers in rebounding average as a sophomore before becoming an All-SEC third-team selection as a junior.
- Bret Bearup, 56, averaged 3.6 ppg and 2.7 rpg for Kentucky from 1980-81 through 1984-85 under coach Joe B. Hall (redshirt in 1981-82). New York product was a backup forward for the Wildcats' 1984 Final Four squad.
- Abe Becker averaged 13.8 ppg for NYU from 1948-49 through 1950-51 under coach Howard Cann. Becker appeared in NIT as a sophomore before leading the Violets in total points each of his last two seasons.
- Elmer Behnke, 89, averaged 7.2 ppg for Bradley from 1947-48 through 1950-51. The Braves finished runner-up in 1950 NCAA Tournament under coach Forddy Anderson.
- Jerry Belko Sr., 85, averaged 9.3 ppg for Idaho State's NCAA tourney teams in 1952-53 and 1953-54. He scored 23 points in three NCAA playoff games in 1954.
- Ramon "Ray" Bell, 83, averaged 5.4 ppg for Oregon from 1953-54 through 1955-56. As a senior, he was the Ducks' fourth-leading scorer (8.5 ppg) and third-leading rebounder (7 rpg).
- Gene Berce, 91, led Marquette in scoring multiple seasons before graduating in 1948. He also was an All-EIBL first-team selection with Cornell in 1945-46 while averaging 12 ppg in officer training during WWII.
- Keith Berkey, 72, averaged 6.8 ppg and 6.4 rpg for Purdue as a sophomore in 1965-66 under coach George King before drafted into U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.
- Jake Bethany, 48, averaged 11.5 ppg and 8 rpg for Hardin-Simmons from 1978-79 through 1981-82. He was an All-Trans America Athletic Conference second-team selection as a senior.
- George Biascca, 89, was Fairfield's coach when the school made transition to NCAA Division I level in mid-1960s. He compiled a 151-87 record with the Stags in 10 seasons from 1958-59 through 1967-68.
- Tom Biedenharn, 73, averaged 2.7 ppg and 1.9 rpg for Cincinnati from 1963-64 through 1965-66. Despite a $50,000 reward, there was no arrest for his homicide after he died in his home on Memorial Day.
- George Bigelow, 82, averaged 2.9 ppg for Boston College from 1955-56 through 1957-58, appearing in the Eagles' first-ever NCAA playoff game as a senior.
- Charles Binford, 90, played under his father, Mel, for Wichita the second half of the 1940s after serving in U.S. Coast Guard during WWII.
- Harold Blalock, 86, averaged 7.9 ppg for Mississippi State from 1951-52 through 1953-54.
- Lyle Blessman, 81, averaged 1.1 ppg for Colorado State in 1956-57 and 1957-58 under coach Jim Williams.
- Jim Blozie, 91, averaged 1.6 ppg for Connecticut in 1947-48 and 1948-49 under coach Hugh Greer after serving in U.S. Navy during WWII in Amphibious Corps in the South Pacific.
- Stan Blumenfeld, 67, was a Canadian recruit who played for Tulsa in 1974-75.
- Don Bol, 88, averaged 2.6 ppg for Purdue in 1949-50 and 1950-51.
- Lee Borowski, 77, averaged 9.9 ppg and 6.4 rpg for Marquette in 1962-63 under coach Eddie Hickey.
- Vince Boyle, 87, was a member of San Francisco's undefeated team in 1955-56 after serving in U.S. Navy during Korean War.
- Eli Brewster Jr., 49, averaged 3.1 ppg and 1.8 apg for Ohio State in 1988-89 under coach Gary Williams after year as academic redshirt.
- Russell Briggs, 87, lettered with Florida in 1950-51 before serving in U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict.
- Preston Brimball, 96, averaged 7.5 ppg for Idaho in 1947-48 and 1948-49 while earning All-PCC North Division first-team honors each season. He served in U.S. military as a fighter pilot during WWII.
- Phil Brintnall, 76, averaged 1.9 ppg for Tennessee in 1960-61 and 1961-62 before transferring back to home state with Western Carolina.
- Lowery "Carter" Brown, 86, averaged 1.9 ppg and 1.7 rpg for Mississippi from 1955-56 through 1957-58 under coach Country Graham. Brown was a halfback with the Rebels' 1952 Sugar Bowl football team before his college career was interrupted by serving in U.S. Army.
- Vic Bubas, 91, lettered four years as North Carolina State player under coach Everett Case before compiling a 213-67 coaching record (.761) with Duke in 10 seasons from 1959-60 through 1968-69. Guided the Blue Devils to NCAA Final Four three times in a four-year span from 1963 through 1966.
- Phil Buck, 90, averaged 3.2 ppg for Indiana from 1948-49 through 1950-51 under coach Branch McCracken.
- Louis "Costin" Bufkin, 91, was a multi-year letterman for Texas Tech in the mid-1940s after serving in U.S. Navy during WWII.
- Chuck Burhorn, 73, was a juco recruit who averaged 8.1 ppg and 6 rpg for Mississippi in 1965-66 (runner-up in scoring and rebounding) and 1966-67.
- Lawrence Butler, 61, was a juco recruit who averaged 27 ppg and 3.6 rpg for Idaho State in 1977-78 and 1978-79. All-American as a senior when averaging 30.1 ppg to edge Larry Bird (Indiana State) for national scoring title.
- Mike Butler, 72, averaged 18.5 ppg and 3.2 rpg for Memphis State from 1965-66 through 1967-68, leading the Tigers in scoring all three seasons while finishing among the nation's top 17 in FT% each year. All-Missouri Valley Conference second-team selection as senior.
- Rasual Butler, 38, averaged 19.3 ppg and 5.9 rpg for La Salle from 1998-99 through 2001-02. He was a two-time All-Atlantic 10 Conference first-team selection.
- Charles "Lex" Cain, 92, was a juco recruit who played for Mississippi State in 1949-50.
- Hubert "Peppy" Callahan, 78, played under two Hall of Famers at North Carolina from 1960-61 (Frank McGuire's last season as UNC's coach) through 1962-63 (Dean Smith's second year as bench boss of the Tar Heels).
- Ramon "Ray" Carazo, 76, averaged 10.8 ppg and 3.8 rpg for Penn from 1961-62 through 1963-64 under coach Jack McCloskey. Carazo compiled a 68-114 record as Yale's coach in seven seasons from 1975-76 through 1981-82.
- Burr Carlson, 90, was a Central Connecticut State transfer who averaged 12.6 ppg and Yankee Conference-leading 14.5 rpg for Connecticut as all-league first-team selection in 1951-52 under coach Hugh Greer. First UConn player selected in an NBA draft coached the school to a 16-32 record in two seasons in 1967-68 and 1968-69.
- John "Jack" Carpenter, 84, played for Oklahoma State in 1952-53 under coach Hank Iba before transferring to Loyola of Chicago, where Carpenter averaged 12.5 ppg and 11 rpg in 1954-55 and 1955-56 under coach George Ireland. Carpenter led the Ramblers in scoring and rebounding as a senior.
- Fred Carr, 71, suited up for defending NCAA champion Texas-El Paso's last five games in 1966-67, collecting a total of 27 points and 30 rebounds. He had 12 points and a game-high 12 rebounds when the Miners were eliminated by Pacific, 72-63, in West Regional semifinals. Carr went on to become an All-Pro linebacker who played 10 NFL seasons with the Green Bay Packers after becoming Vince Lombardi's final first-round draft pick.
- Coy Carson, 91, was an All-Southern Conference first-team selection in 1948-49 when leading North Carolina in scoring with 15.3 ppg.
- Larry Cart, 78, was a juco recruit who became Sugar Bowl Tournament MVP for Auburn in 1962-63 when he averaged 13.4 ppg. Two years later, the Indiana product averaged 9.2 ppg with the Tigers.
- Floyd Carter Jr., 66, was a member of Ohio University's 1972 NCAA tourney team coached by Jim Snyder.
- James "Jippy" Carter Jr., 87, averaged 3.1 ppg and 1.3 rpg for North Carolina in 1950-51 and 1952-53.
- Charlie Chaney, 74, averaged 2.7 ppg for Boston College in 1963-64 and 1964-65 in Bob Cousy's first two seasons as coach of the Eagles.
- Clint Chapman, 64, averaged 11.3 ppg and 6.9 rpg for Southern California from 1972-73 through 1974-75. All-Pac-8 second-team selection as sophomore when leading the Trojans in scoring.
- Len Chappell, 77, averaged 24.9 ppg and 13.9 rpg for Wake Forest from 1959-60 through 1961-62. Two-time All-American ranked among the nation's top six scorers as junior and senior. Led the Demon Deacons in scoring and rebounding all three seasons, including the 1962 national third-place team.
- Wally Choice Sr., 85, averaged 13.9 ppg for Indiana from 1953-54 through 1955-56 under coach Branch McCracken. All-Big Ten Conference second-team selection as senior when leading IU in scoring with 21 ppg and finishing runner-up in rebounding (8.1 rpg). Choice participated in NCAA tourney as a sophomore. He reportedly was the first African-American team captain in league history.
- Max Claiborne, 83, averaged 2.2 ppg for Oklahoma from 1955-56 through 1957-58.
- Riley Clarida Jr., 58, averaged 15.4 ppg and 9.9 rpg for LIU from 1979-80 through 1981-82 after transferring from George Mason. Led the Blackbirds in scoring or rebounding each of his three seasons with them. As a junior, he paced them in both categories for their first NCAA tourney team. Finished fifth in the nation in rebounding as a senior with 12.3 rpg.
- John Clawson, 74, averaged 8 ppg and 3.7 rpg for Michigan's three NCAA tourney teams from 1963-64 through 1965-66 under coach Dave Strack. As a senior, Clawson was runner-up in scoring to All-American Cazzie Russell for the Wolverines after they reached the Final Four the previous two seasons. Clawson was a member of the U.S. gold-medal winning Olympic squad at the 1968 Mexico City Games.
- Archie Clayton III, 75, averaged 7.4 ppg and 5.9 rpg for Texas Christian from 1962-63 through 1964-65 under coach Buster Brannon. As a sophomore, Clayton was the Horned Frogs' leading rebounder (8.2 rpg) and second-leading scorer (12.3 ppg).
- John Coalmon, 80, averaged 11.8 ppg and 9.4 rpg for Fordham from 1958-59 through 1960-61 under coach John Bach. Coalman appeared in NIT as a sophomore, paced the Rams in rebounding as junior and served as senior captain while tying for team leader in rebounds.
- Chad Coates, 43, averaged 2.7 ppg and 2.6 rpg for Idaho in 1994-95.
- Saul Cohen, 96, was a four-year letterman for LIU the first half of the 1940s. He was a starter for the Blackbirds' 1941 NIT titlist coached by Clair Bee.
- Theron Cojoe, 53, played for Louisiana State in 1982-83 and 1983-84 under coach Dale Brown before transferring to New Orleans, where he averaged 2.8 ppg and 2.6 rpg in 1985-86 and 1986-87 under coach Benny Dees. Cojoe participated in NCAA tourney as a senior.
- Mike Cokinos, 98, was Texas A&M captain in 1942-43 before becoming a Brigadier General.
- Thomas "T.C." Coleman IV, 88, averaged 5.1 ppg for Davidson from 1949-50 through 1951-52.
- Bryan Collins, 45, averaged 6.9 ppg and 6.9 rpg for Louisiana-Lafayette from 1991-92 through 1994-95, leading the Ragin' Cajuns in rebounding as a junior and senior.
- Dolan Condie, 91, averaged 5.1 ppg for Utah from 1947-48 through 1949-50 under coach Vadal Peterson.
- Davin "Tom" Connelly Jr., 86, averaged 2 ppg for Maryland from 1950-51 through 1952-53.
- Billy Connors, 76, averaged 6 ppg and 2.3 rpg for Syracuse in 1960-61. He went on to become a National League reliever who compiled an 0-2 record in 26 games with the Chicago Cubs and New York Mets in three years from 1966 through 1968.
- Jim "Red" Connors, 85, scored a total of 61 points for Fordham in 1953-54 and 1954-55 under coach John Bach.
- Teddy Copeland, 85, averaged 8.1 ppg for Florida from 1952-53 through 1955-56. He was senior captain.
- Don Corbett, 75, compiled a 254-145 coaching record with North Carolina A&T in 14 seasons from 1979-80 through 1992-93, guiding the Aggies to seven consecutive NCAA playoff appearances from 1982 through 1988.
- Martin "Marty" Costa, 93, averaged 10 ppg for Penn State from 1947-48 through 1949-50 after serving in U.S. Army during WWII. Costa was the Nittany Lions' top scorer as senior co-captain, tallying a then school single-game record of 32 points against American University.
- Norm Coufal, 84, averaged 2.9 ppg for Nebraska from 1953-54 through 1955-56.
- Erin "JoJo" Cowan, 46, was a juco recruit who averaged 14.2 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 4.3 apg and 1.2 spg as Idaho State's runner-up in scoring average both seasons in 1991-92 and 1992-93.
- Ken Cox played for Wake Forest from 1955-56 through 1957-58 under coaches Murray Greason and Bones McKinney.
- Phil Cox, 64, averaged 7.1 ppg and 3.8 rpg for Butler in 1972-73 and 1973-74 before transferring to Gardner-Webb NC.
- Stan Cox, 65, averaged 4.2 ppg and 3.2 rpg for Tennessee Tech in 1972-73 and 1973-74.
- Dudley Coyne, 83, averaged 13 ppg for Maine from 1955-56 through 1957-58. He was an All-Yankee Conference second-team selection as a sophomore.\
- Bill Creagan Jr., 86, averaged 1.9 ppg for Loyola of Chicago in 1954-55 under coach George Ireland.
- Doug Crewse, 67, averaged 2.3 ppg and 1.3 rpg for Army from 1970-71 through 1972-73. His first varsity coach with the Cadets was Bob Knight.
- Keith Cribb, 93, averaged 2.2 ppg for South Carolina in 1948-49.
- Dick Crist, 68, played for Wichita State in 1969-70.
- Joe Crowley lettered for Texas in the mid-1940s before transferring to Santa Clara, where he averaged 5.8 ppg in 1947-48 and 1948-49. His college career was interrupted by serving in U.S. Navy during WWII.
- Francis "Frank" Crum, 84, averaged 4.1 ppg for Marshall from 1951-52 through 1954-55 (did not play in 1952-53).
- Kyle "Buddy" Cruze, 84, was a SMU transfer who averaged 6.4 ppg and 4.7 rpg for Tennessee in 1953-54. Cruze, a wide receiver who led the Volunteers in pass receptions in 1955 and 1956, was a 12th-round pick by the Chicago Bears in 1956 NFL draft.
- Ross Culligan, 78, averaged 5 ppg and 7 rpg for Lehigh from 1958-59 through 1960-61. He led the team in rebounding as a junior.
- Ron Curry, 48, was an Arizona transfer who averaged 12.4 ppg and 7.1 rpg for Marquette from 1990-91 through 1992-93. Two-time All-Great Midwest Conference selection.
- Ben Cutler, 80, averaged 1.7 ppg and 1.1 rpg for Utah in 1957-58 and 1958-59 under coach Jack Gardner. Cutler, who played in the NCAA tourney his final season with the Utes, ran marathons in his mid-70s.
- Wilton "Billy" Dale, 91, lettered for Louisiana State in 1942-43 and 1943-44 before serving in U.S. Navy during WWII.
- Jim Davidson, 83, averaged 2.3 ppg for Colgate from 1953-54 through 1955-56.
- Daryl Davis, 65, was a juco recruit who averaged 1.2 ppg and 2.1 rpg for Hawaii in 1973-74.
- Jim Davis, 77, averaged 14.4 ppg and 11.2 rpg for Colorado from 1961-62 through 1963-64. Two-time All-Big Eight Conference first-team selection while leading the league in rebounding was on back-to-back NCAA playoff regional finalists as a sophomore and junior.
- Scott Davis, 58, played for Eastern Michigan in 1978-79 under coach Ray Scott. As quarterback, Davis led EMU in total offense and passing in 1979 and 1980.
- Ted Davis, 81, averaged 1.3 ppg for Colorado State in 1956-57 and 1957-58.
- Marvin Deckert, 86, was a juco recruit who played for Kansas in 1952-53 under coach Phog Allen.
- Perry Del Purgatorio, 89, averaged 5 ppg for Villanova in 1948-49 and 1949-50. He was a four-year teammate of All-American Paul Arizin including NCAA tourney team in 1949.
- Lou Desci Jr., 95, was Bucknell's captain in 1944-45 and 1946-47 sandwiched around starting for Harvard's first NCAA tourney team in 1946 via its ROTC program and the Navy's V-12 program at Bucknell.
- Jim DeWulf, 82, averaged 7.1 ppg and 9.4 rpg for Loyola of Chicago from 1955-56 through 1957-58 under coach George Ireland. DeWulf was the Rambers' runner-up in rebounding as a sophomore and junior.
- Dick Dibert, 79, averaged 1.8 ppg for Penn State in 1958-59 under coach John Egli.
- Earl Dietering Jr., 84, played for Texas Tech in 1951-52.
- Gary Dillon, 84, played for Miami (Ohio) in 1953-54.
- Phil DiNardo, 84, averaged 7.4 ppg and 8 rpg for North Carolina State's first three ACC teams from 1953-54 through 1955-56 under coach Everett Case. As a senior, DiNardo was the second-leading rebounder for an NCAA playoff participant (11.2 rpg).
- Dallas Dobbs was a two-time All-Big Seven Conference selection who averaged 14.9 ppg and 2.8 rpg for Kansas from 1953-54 through 1955-56 under coach Phog Allen.
- Bob Doll compiled a 33-77 coaching record for Kent State in five seasons from 1961-62 through 1965-66. He averaged 10.2 ppg and 3.3 rpg with Miami (Ohio) from 1951-52 through 1953-54, appearing in NCAA playoffs as a junior.
- Warren Dorsey, 64, averaged 4.2 ppg and 1.2 rpg for Miami of Ohio from 1972-73 through 1974-75.
- Jim Dowies Sr., 88, was an All-SWC first-team selection in 1951-52 when leading Texas in scoring with 13 ppg. He also paced the league tri-champion Longhorns in scoring the previous season.
- Henry Downs, 62, averaged 4.8 ppg, 1.3 rpg, 2.3 apg and 1.2 spg as Boston University freshman in 1974-75.
- Dick Drake, 86, averaged 2.6 ppg for George Washington in 1951-52 under coach Bill Reinhart.
- Al Drummond, 65, was Virginia's first African-American player. He averaged 5.2 ppg from 1971-72 through 1973-74.
- Frank Dulapa, 99, played for Detroit in late 1930s and early 1940s before serving in U.S. Navy during WWII.
- Scott Dunham, 75, averaged 1.5 ppg and 1.1 rpg for Maine from 1962-63 through 1964-65.
- Donald Dutton, 53, averaged 2.9 ppg and 1.1 apg for Oregon in 1982-83 and 1983-84 before transferring to Delaware, where he averaged 12.9 ppg, 2.2 rpg and 3.2 apg in 1985-86 and 1986-87. As a UD junior, he was runner-up on the team in scoring, assists and free-throw percentage.
- Harold Dwyer, 84, averaged 2.8 ppg for Wichita in 1956-57 under coach Ralph Miller.
- Rich Dyer, 74, averaged 8 ppg and 2.4 rpg for NYU from 1963-64 through 1965-66. The Violets participated in NIT all three seasons.
- Don Eckelman, 77, was a juco recruit who averaged 2.8 ppg and 2 rpg for Houston in 1962-63 and 1963-64 under coach Guy Lewis.
- Dorsey Edmundson, 53, played for UNC Wilmington in 1983-84.
- Lloyd Eggers, 82, played for Illinois in 1956-57 under coach Harry Combes.
- Pete Eldredge, 74, averaged 1.1 ppg and 1.3 rpg for Richmond in 1963-64.
- Lloyd Elmore, 84, scored 146 points for Missouri from 1952-53 through 1954-55.
- John Engberg averaged 1 ppg for Duke in 1949-50.
- Myron "Sonny" Enns, 90, played for Kansas in the late 1940s and early 1950s under coach Phog Allen.
- Paul Erland, 68, averaged 21.1 ppg and 7 rpg for Dartmouth from 1969-70 through 1971-72 under coach George Blaney. All-Ivy League selection each of his first two seasons when leading team in point production still holds school career scoring average record.
- Sammy Esposito, 86, averaged 7 ppg for Indiana as a starting guard under coach Branch McCracken in 1951-52. He went on to become an American League utility infielder who hit .207 in 560 games during 10-year career (1952 and 1955 through 1963) with the Chicago White Sox and Kansas City Athletics before coaching North Carolina State to third-place finish in 1968 College World Series.
- Chuck Eyer, 85, averaged 4.1 ppg and 3.8 rpg for Lafayette from 1951-52 through 1953-54. Infielder for College World Series teams in 1953 (finished third) and 1954 (served as captain).
- Robby Fahnestock, 74, averaged 1.8 ppg for Washington in 1963-64 and 1965-66.
- Matt Fanning, 91, averaged 1.7 ppg for La Salle from 1948-49 through 1950-51. Member of NIT teams each of his last two years.
- George Fedok Jr., 87, averaged 4.7 ppg and 2.9 rpg for Muhlenberg in 1950-51.
- Dick Fichtner, 78, compiled a 37-48 coaching record with Pacific in three seasons from 1979-80 through 1981-82.
- Bob Field, 87, averaged 2.5 ppg for Manhattan from 1949-50 through 1951-52.
- Hans Fields played for Texas Western in the late 1950s.
- Dan Fitzgerald, 75, averaged 11.1 ppg and 10.1 rpg for Temple from 1962-63 through 1964-65. Led the Owls in scoring and rebounding as sophomore.
- Gene Flowers, 81, averaged 4.8 ppg and 2.7 rpg for Indiana from 1956-57 through 1958-59 under coach Branch McCracken. Flowers was senior captain.
- Rick Fluckey, 48, was a member of Texas' squad in 1987-88 under coach Bob Weltlich before averaging 6 ppg with New Mexico State's NCAA playoff team in 1989-90 under coach Neil McCarthy.
- Alton Ford, 36, averaged 10.8 ppg and 5.9 rpg for Houston in 2000-01 before declaring early for the NBA draft.
- Frank Ford Sr., 53, averaged 10.8 ppg, 4.7 rpg, 2.1 apg and 1.3 spg for Auburn from 1983-84 through 1986-87. All-SEC third-team selection as a senior appeared in the NCAA tourney all four seasons.
- Donnie Forman, 92, collaborated with Dolph Schayes to direct NYU to national postseason competition in three of their four varsity seasons. Forman was a freshman for NCAA playoff runner-up in 1945, scoring the game-tying basket with less than 30 seconds remaining in regulation of the national semifinals and 11 points in championship contest against Bob Kurland-led Oklahoma A&M.
- Bill Forsyth, 103, lettered for Florida in 1934-35 and 1935-36.
- Ed Frampton, 81, played for Georgetown in 1957-58.
- Billy Francis Jr., 75, averaged 1.2 ppg for East Carolina in 1966-67 and 1967-68.
- Jerome "Jerry" Francis Sr., 70, played for Dayton in 1967-68 under coach Don Donoher before serving in U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He subsequently attended Capital University (Ohio).
- Bob Frantz, 81, averaged 5.7 ppg and 5 rpg for South Carolina from 1957-58 through 1959-60.
- Larry Friend, 54, averaged 3.7 ppg and 4.2 apg for Southern California from 1982-83 through 1985-86 under coach Stan Morrison. Senior captain and team MVP set since-broken school records for assists in a game, season and career.
- Bob Froeschle, 87, averaged 2.2 ppg for California in 1950-51 and 1951-52.
- Dr. John Frye, 79, averaged 9.5 ppg and 2.6 rpg for Duke from 1958-59 through 1960-61. He was a starter for the Blue Devils in 1960 when they won their first ACC Tournament title in Vic Bubas' first season as coach.
- Honorable Ron Gagnon, 88, averaged 2 ppg for Providence in 1950-51 and 1951-52.
- Harry "Bud" Gardler, 72, averaged 3.9 ppg and 1.7 rpg for St. Joseph's in 1966-67 and 1967-68 under coach Jack McKinney. Gardler's son, Chris, led St. Joe's in assists and steals in 1989-90 after transferring from Widener PA. Phil Martelli served as a high school assistant coach under him and one of his prep players was legendary UConn women's mentor Geno Auriemma.
- Bill Gatyas, 84, played for Rutgers in 1954-55.
- Lou Geissberger, 86, played for St. Mary's in the early 1950s.
- Bob Gelle, 87, was a three-year starter who averaged 10.1 ppg for Minnesota from 1950-51 through 1952-53. Team captain and MVP as senior.
- Nick Generalovich, 73, averaged 1.3 ppg and 1.2 rpg for Pittsburgh in 1964-65 and 1965-66.
- Dr. Johnny George, 82, averaged 7 ppg for West Texas State from 1953-54 through 1956-57. In his sophomore season, WTSU was eliminated by eventual champion San Francisco in the NCAA playoffs.
- Dan Gerhard, 66, averaged 7.8 ppg and 3.1 rpg for Ohio State from 1971-72 through 1973-74 under coach Fred Taylor.
- Roger Geyer, 69, averaged 1.4 ppg for NYU in 1968-69 and 1969-70 under coach Lou Rossini.
- Wally Gibbons, 79, averaged 8.2 ppg and 5.9 rpg for Clemson from 1957-58 through 1959-60 under coach Press Maravich.
- Bobby Giles, 93, averaged 3.7 ppg for South Carolina over multiple seasons in the mid-1940s after serving in U.S. Air Force during WWII. He scored the first touchdown in Gamecocks and Gator Bowl history following the 1945 football season.
- Jerry Gillen, 83, collected 8 points and 11 rebounds for Marshall in 1953-54 under coach Cam Henderson.
- R. "Dale" Gipple, 69, averaged 2.2 ppg for North Carolina from 1968-69 through 1970-71 under coach Dean Smith. As a sophomore, Gipple participated in the Final Four.
- Don Gish Sr., 81, averaged 10.7 ppg and 8.5 rpg for Tennessee Tech in 1956-57 under coach John Oldham before transferring to Kentucky Wesleyan.
- Al Glaza, 83, averaged 1.7 ppg and 3.4 rpg for Louisville from 1954-55 through 1956-57 under coach Peck Hickman. As a junior, Glaza was fourth-leading rebounder for the Cardinals' NIT titlist.
- Bertram Goddard, 92, played for Maine in the late 1940s after serving in U.S. Army in Pacific Theater during WWII.
- Dave Goff, 59, averaged 5.8 ppg, 2.1 rpg, 5.1 apg and 1.6 spg for Texas A&M from 1976-77 through 1979-80. The Aggies' first four-year starter led them in assists each season.
- Fred Gordon, 99, was a regular for Iowa State's 1941 Big Six Conference titlist.
- Dale "Kelly" Gott Jr., 77, was Tulane's leading scorer with 18 ppg in 1963-64.
- Mike Green, 67, averaged 22.9 ppg and 15.4 rpg for Louisiana Tech from 1969-70 through 1972-73. He was Southland Conference Player of the Year as a senior when the Bulldogs were making their transition to NCAA Division I level under eventual NBA coach Scotty Robertson.
- Fred Greene, 75, averaged 4.2 ppg and 2.9 rpg for Penn in 1962-63 and 1963-64 under coach Jack McCloskey.
- Hal Greer, 81, averaged 19.4 ppg and 10.8 rpg while shooting 54.5% from the floor for Marshall from 1955-56 through 1957-58. Ranked among the nation's top 13 in field-goal percentage all three seasons.
- William "Stu" Gregory Jr., 83, was a juco recruit who averaged 5 ppg and 3.4 rpg for Florida State's first major-college squad in 1956-57.
- Milton "Whitey" Greiss, 90, was a member of NYU's NIT team in 1948.
- Ray "Scotty" Griesheimer, 85, averaged 10.4 ppg and 6.8 rpg for Ohio University from 1951-52 through 1955-56. All-Mid-American Conference second-team selection as a senior when leading OU in scoring and rebounding after serving in U.S. Army. He hit .245 as a 3B-OF in the Cincinnati Reds' farm system in 1957 and 1958.
- Jack Grout, 80, averaged 4.8 ppg and 3.2 rpg for California from 1956-57 through 1958-59 under coach Pete Newell. As a senior, Grout was NCAA champion's fourth-leading rebounder and sixth-leading scorer.
- Rich Gugat, 76, was a member of UCLA's 1962 Final Four team coached by John Wooden before transferring to San Jose State, where forward averaged 3.4 ppg and 2 rpg in 1963-64.
- Frank Guisness, 87, averaged 11.9 ppg for Washington as three-time All-PCC North Division selection from 1949-50 through 1951-52. As a junior, he was runner-up in scoring with NCAA tourney team coached by Tippy Dye.
- Billy Hahn, 77, averaged 11.5 ppg and 3.1 rpg for Drake from 1960-61 through 1962-63 under coach Maury John.
- Bill Hailey, 95, was a senior regular for Baylor's first NCAA tourney team in 1946 coached by Bill Henderson. Hailey's college career was interrupted by serving in U.S. Army Air Corps during WWII.
- George Haines Jr., 96, played for Bucknell from 1940-41 through 1942-43. He was team captain his final season.
- David Hale, 79, averaged 5.3 ppg and 5.5 rpg for Oklahoma City from 1958-59 through 1960-61 under coach Abe Lemons.
- Mose Hale, 88, averaged 9.6 ppg for West Texas State in 1950-51 and 1951-52 (All-Border Conference second-team selection).
- Ralph Hale, 92, played for Utah after serving in U.S. Navy during WWII.
- Jeff Hamilton, 55, averaged 16.5 ppg, 6.5 rpg and 1.1 spg for St. Francis (Pa.) from 1981-82 through 1984-85. Two-time All-ECAC Metro selection led the Red Flash in scoring all four seasons.
- Harold "Ron" Hannon, 82, averaged 7.3 ppg for Army in 1959-60 and 1960-61.
- Bill Hanson, 77, averaged 17.8 ppg and 8.2 rpg for Washington from 1959-60 through 1961-62. Three-time All-AAWU first-team selection was an All-American his senior campaign.
- Tony Hanson, 63, averaged 17.9 ppg and 7.4 rpg for UConn from 1973-74 through 1976-77. Two-time All-Yankee Conference selection before becoming All-American as a senior when ranking 10th in the nation in scoring with 26 ppg.
- Bob Hardy, 82, averaged 13.2 ppg for Virginia from 1954-55 through 1956-57. He was the Cavaliers' leading scorer as a senior with 15.2 ppg.
- Bob Haring, 92, lettered for Colorado in late 1940s after serving in U.S. Navy during WWII.
- Clarence Harper, 72, averaged 9.2 ppg and 7.8 rpg for Butler in 1967-68 and 1968-69 under coach Tony Hinkle.
- Bill Harris, 87, averaged 6.2 ppg for Baylor in 1950-51 and 1951-52 after the Bears reached 1950 Final Four.
- Chester "Chipper" Harris, 55, paced the nation in steals as junior and senior in last two of three seasons he led Robert Morris in scoring. Averaged 16.5 ppg and 3.4 rpg from 1980-81 through 1983-84, including the Colonials' first two NCAA tourney appearances. Co-ECAC Metro player of the year his final campaign.
- Ken Harris, 63, averaged 14.7 ppg and 7.9 rpg for Drake from 1973-74 through 1976-77. He was an All-Missouri Valley Conference first-team selection each of his last two seasons.
- Ron Harris, 83, compiled a 20-57 coaching record with Samford in three seasons from 1972-73 through 1974-75 when school made transition to NCAA Division I level.
- William "Morgan" Harvill Sr., 90, scored 213 points in 1947-48 when he was Georgia's captain after serving in U.S. Navy.
- Jim Hatton, 85, averaged 7.1 ppg for Houston from 1952-53 through 1954-55.
- Dale Haverman, 63, transferred from Kansas to McKendree College IL in his home state and became an NBA draft choice in 1977.
- Ernest Hawkins, 91, played hoops for Texas Tech in 1947-48. All-Border Conference football selection in 1948 was quarterback in 1947 Sun Bowl and 1949 Raisin Bowl.
- Carl Head was a J.C. recruit who averaged 17.1 ppg and 7.9 rpg for West Virginia in 1965-66 and 1966-67. All-Southern Conference first-team selection as a senior was part of a five-player group integrating hoops at WVU.
- Mike Heideman, 70, compiled a 110-95 coaching record as Dick Bennett's successor at Wisconsin-Green Bay in seven seasons from 1995-96 through 2001-02.
- Joel Heider, 68, was a juco recruit who averaged 4.1 ppg and 2.2 rpg for Arkansas in 1970-71 and 1971-72.
- Dr. Ralph Heinz, 89, averaged 1.3 ppg for West Virginia in 1948-49 as a teammate of Fred Schaus.
- Eugene "Jack" Heldman, 88, averaged 8.5 ppg for Vanderbilt from 1949-50 through 1951-52 under coach Bob Polk. Vandy won the first-ever SEC Tournament in 1951.
- Mike Helms, 58, averaged 10.5 ppg and 1.9 apg for Wake Forest from 1978-79 through 1981-82 (including pair of NCAA playoff clubs).
- Lloyd Hendrix, 91, was an All-Missouri Valley Conference second-team selection in 1950-51 when leading Houston in scoring with 13.4 ppg.
- Norm Henwood, 92, lettered for Oregon in 1943-44.
- Norb Herrmann, 92, averaged 5 ppg for Indiana from 1944-45 through 1947-48.
- Dr. Gene Hightower, 81, played for Baylor in 1954-55 under coach Bill Henderson.
- Pete Hillman, 77, averaged 2.2 ppg for Southern California from 1960-61 through 1962-63. Father of Joe Hillman (guard for Indiana's 1987 NCAA champion) also pitched for the Trojans' CWS titlist his senior season.
- Richie Hoffman, 82, averaged 9.3 ppg and 5.8 rpg for South Carolina in 1956-57 and 1957-58.
- Darrell Hohmann, 77, averaged 1.3 ppg and 1.1 rpg for Oklahoma from 1959-60 through 1961-62.
- Charles "Jerry" Hohne, 80, played for Florida State in 1958-59. He was a pitcher on the Seminoles' baseball squad.
- John Holup Jr., 86, averaged 11.3 ppg for George Washington from 1951-52 through 1953-54. He appeared in NCAA playoffs as a senior.
- Tyler Honeycutt, 27, averaged 10.3 ppg, 6.9 rpg, 2.8 apg and 1.7 bpg for UCLA in 2009-10 and 2010-11 before declaring early for the NBA draft after becoming an All-Pacific-10 Conference first-team selection as sophomore.
- Carl Hornung, 82, played for Cornell in 1955-56 and 1956-57.
- Bill Howard, 76, averaged 4.2 ppg and 4.4 rpg as captain of Princeton's 1964 NCAA playoff team featuring All-American Bill Bradley. Howard was also the starting tight end and defensive end for the Tigers' football squad that also won Ivy League championship his senior season.
- John Humann, 72, played for Canisius in 1967-68.
- Larry Hunter, 68, compiled a 397-377 NCAA DI coaching record in 25 seasons with Ohio University (204-148 in 12 seasons from 1989-90 through 2000-01) and Western Carolina (193-229 in 13 seasons from 2005-06 through 2017-18).
- Mel Hutchins, 90, was leading rebounder and second-leading scorer as senior All-American for Brigham Young's 1951 NIT titlist.
- Willard "Ken" Hutto, 82, led Texas A&M in scoring with 14.7 ppg in 1955-56 under coach Ken Loeffler.
- Joe Huver, 84, played for St. Joseph's in 1953-54.
- Sammy Hyde, 69, averaged 5.1 ppg and 3.3 rpg for Texas in 1969-70.
- Anthony Ingram, 53, averaged 4.3 ppg and 2.4 apg for UALR in 1983-84 before transferring to Northern Arizona, where he averaged 3.8 ppg in 1985-86 and 1986-87.
- Charles "Chili" Ishmael, 75, averaged 7 ppg and 3.1 rpg for Kentucky from 1961-62 through 1963-64 under coach Adolph Rupp.
- Marvin "Jack" Jackson, 92, played for Mississippi State in the late 1940s. He served in U.S. Army during WWII, Korean Conflict and Vietnam War.
- Gerald "Jerry" Janovetz, 78, averaged 2.2 ppg and 2.2 rpg for Kansas State in 1964-65 under coach Tex Winter after serving in U.S. Army.
- Steve Jefferson, 67, averaged 12.4 ppg and 9.9 rpg for Rider from 1969-70 through 1971-72, leading the Broncs in rebounding each of his last two campaigns. Team MVP as a junior held the school single-season record for rebounds for 37 years until Jason Thompson eclipsed the mark.
- Neil Jenson, 77, was a member of Utah's third-place finisher in 1961 NCAA Tournament on team coached by Jack Gardner.
- Warren Jeppesen, 80, averaged 2.3 ppg for Minnesota from 1956-57 through 1958-59 under coach Ozzie Cowles.
- Lloyd Jernigan, 89, was a juco recruit on Tulsa's roster in 1948-49 before he transferred to Panhandle State OK.
- Ernie Johnson, 67, averaged 9.9 ppg and 7.4 rpg for Michigan from 1970-71 through 1972-73 under coach Johnny Orr, finishing among the Wolverines' top four rebounders all three seasons.
- Greg "Pope" Johnson, 65, was on roster of Marquette's 1974 NCAA Tournament runner-up coached by Al McGuire.
- Tom Johnson was a juco recruit who averaged 13.4 ppg and 7.6 rpg for Missouri in 1966-67 and 1967-68 under coaches Bob Vanatta and Norm Stewart.
- Henry Jones Jr., 88, was a Washington & Lee teammate of Southern Conference scoring leader Jay Handlan in 1950-51.
- Kenyatta "Bear" Jones, 39, played in three games for South Florida in 1998-99 under coach Seth Greenberg. Jones was an offensive tackle who played in the NFL with New England Patriots and Washington Redskins.
- Robin Jones, 64, averaged 8.9 ppg and 7.9 rpg for St. Louis from 1972-73 through 1974-75. Runner-up in rebounding all three seasons with the Billikens.
- Sterling Jones, 86, averaged 4.4 ppg for Oklahoma from 1951-52 through 1953-54 under coach Bruce Drake.
- Jerry Jorgensen, 82, averaged 6 ppg for Idaho in 1955-56 and 1956-57.
- Rocco Julian Jr., 85, played for Duquesne's 1954 NIT runner-up under coach Dudey Moore.
- George Kaftan, 90, averaged 13.5 ppg for Holy Cross from 1945-46 through 1948-49. Two-time All-American was leading scorer for NCAA titlist in 1947 when he was named Final Four Most Outstanding Player.
- John "Bill" Kamphuis Jr., 61, was a juco recruit who played for Mississippi State in the late 1970s.
- Dave Katz, 77, was a member of Ohio University's first two NCAA tourney teams in 1960 and 1961. He averaged 7.9 ppg during his three-year career with the Bobcats.
- Lucius Keese, 66, was a juco transfer who averaged 2.3 ppg and 2.9 rpg for Pittsburgh in 1972-73 and 1974-75.
- Jerry Keeton, 80, averaged 9.9 ppg and 4.6 rpg for Mississippi State from 1956-57 through 1958-59 under coach Babe McCarthy. Two-year co-captain with consensus All-American Bailey Howell was Mississippi Army National Guard and Army Reserve Major General in the early 1990s.
- Bill Kenville, 87, averaged 9.6 ppg for St. Bonaventure in 1950-51 and 1951-52, leading the Bonnies' in rebounding his final season.
- Frank Keton, 65, averaged 7.7 ppg for Texas-El Paso in 1972-73 under Hall of Fame coach Don Haskins.
- Bob Kiggans, 75, averaged 4.6 ppg and 3.2 rpg for The Citadel from 1962-63 through 1964-65.
- Mik Kilgore, 48, averaged 11.9 ppg, 5.1 rpg, 3.1 apg and 1.2 spg with Temple from 1988-89 through 1991-92. Leading scorer as senior for third straight NCAA playoff team under coach John Chaney.
- Eugene King, 85, averaged 5.1 ppg and 3.5 rpg for Connecticut from 1951-52 through 1957-58 under coach Hugh Greer (missed three full seasons while serving in U.S. Force).
- Tony Kinnaird, 65, averaged 1.2 ppg and 1.1 rpg for Louisville from 1973-74 through 1976-77 under coach Denny Crum. Kinnaird participated in NCAA playoffs in his first season.
- Bob Kinnard, 75, averaged 12.3 ppg and 8.8 rpg for East Carolina in 1964-65 and 1965-66. He led the Pirates in rebounding in their first season at the NCAA DI level and was runner-up in same category in school's first year competing as member of Southern Conference.
- Lowery Kirk, 80, was runner-up in scoring average for Memphis State's NIT teams in 1960 and 1961.
- Bill Kirsch, 86, averaged 7.3 ppg for Siena in 1952-53 and 1953-54, playing in a six-overtime marathon against Niagara and making a three-quarter court basket to defeat Iona at Madison Square Garden. He coached his alma mater when it returned to major-college level in the late 1970s, compiling a 142-111 record in 10 seasons from 1972-73 through 1981-82.
- Dean Kittman, 85, played for Houston in first half of 1950s, averaging 3.6 ppg and 2.7 rpg in 1953-54.
- Bob Klock, 84, averaged 5.7 ppg for Washington State from 1952-53 through 1954-55.
- Billy Knight, 39, averaged 8 ppg and 2.2 rpg for UCLA from 1997-98 through 2001-02. He was the Bruins' second-leading scorer as a senior.
- Horace Knight, 83, averaged 8.3 ppg for Georgia in 1954-55 (third-highest scoring average for Bulldogs with 9.9 ppg) and 1955-56.
- Walt Knocke, 91, averaged 3.7 ppg for Wichita from 1947-48 through 1949-50.
- Kirk Korver, 27, averaged 5.3 ppg and 2.4 rpg for UMKC from 2009-10 through 2013-14.
- Wayne Kruer, 71, was Jacksonville's second-leading scorer with 17.3 ppg in 1966-67 under coach Joe Williams.
- James Kuryak, 75, averaged 8.7 ppg for Niagara from 1961-62 through 1963-64 under coach Taps Gallagher. Kuryak was runner-up in team scoring as a senior.
- Clayton "Rudy" Lacy, 86, averaged 6.4 ppg and 3.8 rpg for Duke from 1951-52 through 1953-54 under coach Harold Bradley. Lacy was a teammate of All-American Dick Groat and eventual DI coach Lefty Driesell.
- Ed Ladley, 78, averaged 6.7 ppg for Niagara from 1959-60 through 1961-62 under coach Taps Gallagher. Ladley was the Purple Eagles' third-leading scorer as senior with 11.7 ppg after appearing in NIT the previous season.
- Mike Lanier, 48, averaged 5.1 ppg and 3.4 rpg for Hardin-Simmons in 1988-89 and 1989-90 before transferring to UCLA, where 7-6 center averaged 1.3 ppg and 1.1 rpg in 1991-92 and 1992-93.
- Bob Latkany, 81, averaged 5.7 ppg and 1.7 rpg for Boston College from 1956-57 through 1958-59. As a junior, he was a member of BC's first NCAA playoff team.
- Russ Lawler, 84, averaged 12.5 ppg and 8.6 rpg for Stanford from 1952-53 through 1954-55. Team-leading rebounder his last two years as All-PCC selection. Also led squad in scoring as a junior.
- Calvin Lawshe, 71, was a member of Toledo coach Bob Nichols' NCAA tourney team in 1966-67.
- Tim Leary, 73, averaged 3.1 ppg and 2.6 rpg for Manhattan from 1964-65 through 1966-67.
- Ed Leede, 90, became the first Dartmouth player to score 1,000 points in a career. Four-time All-EIBL selection averaged 16 ppg as senior in 1948-49 when he was an all-conference first-team choice for the third consecutive campaign.
- George Leidy, 72, averaged 1.9 ppg and 1.3 rpg for Penn State in 1965-66 and 1966-67.
- Cecil "Ray" Lewis, 78, averaged 4.6 ppg and 4.1 rpg for Louisiana State from 1959-60 through 1961-62. As a senior, he made 11-of-12 field-goal attempts in a game against Alabama.
- Derrick Lewis, 52, averaged 2.9 ppg for South Carolina in 1984-85 under coach Bill E. Foster before transferring to Northeastern, where he averaged 16 ppg and 3.2 rpg from 1986-87 through 1988-89. Team-leading scorer as a senior when he was an All-ECAC North Atlantic Conference second-team selection.
- Ernie "Pop" Lewis, 51, averaged 7.5 ppg, 2.9 rpg and 2 apg for Providence from 1983-84 through 1986-87. He was senior co-captain and three-point specialist of Final Four team coached by Rick Pitino.
- Peery Lewis, 89, averaged 5.9 ppg for William & Mary from 1948-49 through 1950-51. He was an All-Southern Conference second-team selection as a senior.
- Bob Lienhard, 70, averaged 22.1 ppg and 14.9 rpg while shooting 59.7% from the floor for Georgia from 1967-68 through 1969-70. Three-time All-SEC selection led the Bulldogs in scoring and rebounding all three seasons when he ranked among the nation's top 10 in field-goal percentage each campaign.
- George Linn, 84, averaged 15.5 ppg and 9.8 rpg for Alabama from 1952-53 through 1955-56. Two-time All-SEC selection was runner-up to All-American teammate Jerry Harper in scoring and rebounding each of their last two seasons.
- Mike "Tiny" Lochner, 71, averaged 2.9 ppg and 2.3 rpg for Texas in 1966-67 and 1967-68.
- Sean Locke, 23, played for Delaware from 2013-14 through 2015-16.
- Bill Logan, 83, averaged 16.1 ppg and 10.3 rpg for Iowa from 1953-54 through 1955-56 under coach Bucky O'Connor. Logan led the Hawkeyes in scoring all three seasons. Two-time All-Big Ten Conference first-team selection was an All-American as senior for NCAA Tournament runner-up.
- Scott Loll, 72, was a backup frontcourter for Syracuse in 1964-65 before transferring to Alaska-Fairbanks, where he averaged 17.4 ppg and 15.4 rpg in 1966-67 and 1967-68.
- Herb London, 79, was third-leading rebounder for Columbia in 1959-60. He was president of the Hudson Institute, frequent columnist for The Washington Times, president of a conservative think tank and member of Council on Foreign Relations.
- Deacon "Dean" Lopata, 74, played for Minnesota from 1963-64 through 1965-66 under coach John Kundla.
- Maurice Lorenz, 84, averaged 5.9 ppg for Purdue from 1953-54 through 1955-56.
- Richard Lucas, 67, was a seven-footer who played for Oral Roberts in 1972-73 and 1973-74 under coach Ken Trickey.
- Dick Lynch, 91, averaged 4.7 ppg for Boston University in 1947-48 and 1948-49 after serving in U.S. Navy during WWII.
- Kendell Mack, 43, was an offensive tackle with Peach Bowl winner who collected 11 points and 4 rebounds in eight basketball games for Auburn in 1997-98 under coach Cliff Ellis.
- Harold "Bud" Maddie, 89, was a U.S. Navy veteran who averaged 10.9 ppg and 10.7 rpg for North Carolina from 1950-51 through 1953-54 (missed 1951-52 campaign). He finishing among the top two in rebounding for the Tar Heels all three seasons, leading them in category as a junior.
- Bob Malott, 91, averaged 1.4 ppg as freshman forward in 1943-44 with Kansas, where his father was Chancellor, before enlisting in U.S. Navy and serving on an electronics repair ship during WWII. Chairman and CEO of Chicago-based FMC Corporation for two decades prior to retiring in 1991.
- DeWitt Mathews averaged 4.3 ppg and 2.8 rpg for Samford in 1991-92 and 1992-93.
- Max Mattes, 84, averaged 2.3 ppg and 1.9 rpg for Cornell's NCAA playoff team in 1954.
- Bob Mattick, 85, averaged 16.6 ppg and 9.3 rpg for Oklahoma A&M from 1951-52 through 1953-54, earning All-American acclaim as a senior. Ranked among the nation's Top 20 in FG% all three seasons.
- Jim Mattox, 70, played for Mississippi State in 1968-69 and 1969-70.
- Mike Maundrell, 71, played for Michigan in 1966-67 and 1967-68 under coach Dave Strack.
- Glen Mays, 56, averaged 6 ppg and 3.4 rpg for Baylor in 1982-83 after starting for NJCAA Tournament titlist Westark (Ark.) in 1981.
- Walter McCarthy, 102, played for San Francisco in the mid-1930s before serving in U.S. Navy during WWII.
- George McChesney, 87, averaged 1.1 ppg for Vanderbilt in 1949-50 and 1950-51 under coach Bob Polk.
- Larry "Marcus" McCoy, 65, averaged 9.8 ppg and 5.1 rpg for Wisconsin from 1972-73 through 1974-75. He was the Badgers' second-leading rebounder and third-leading scorer as a senior.
- Neill McGeachy, 75, compiled a 10-16 record as Duke's coach in 1973-74.
- Bob McGinn Jr., 78, played for Loyola LA in 1957-58 and St. Louis in 1959-60.
- John McGonagle, 80, averaged 3.3 ppg and 3.5 rpg for Maine in 1963-64 after serving in U.S. Air Force.
- Ken McGonagle, 88, averaged 1.7 ppg for Minnesota in 1950-51 under coach Ozzie Cowles before compiling a 26-19 pitching record in the Cincinnati Reds' farm system in three years from 1953 to 1955.
- Dick McGowan, 86, averaged 7.9 ppg and 2.6 rpg for Tulane in 1951-52 and 1952-53 under coach Clifford Wells.
- John "Barry" McGrath, 80, averaged 9.5 ppg and 11.1 rpg for Boston College from 1956-57 through 1958-59. He was BC's leading rebounder all three seasons, including the Eagles' first NCAA tourney team in 1958.
- Mike McIntyre, 38, averaged 6.8 ppg and shot 37.3% from beyond the three-point arc for Hawaii from 1998-99 through 2001-02. Among top six scorers for the Rainbows' NCAA playoff teams as junior and senior. Transient was struck by a vehicle while riding bicycle in his native Long Beach, Calif.
- Bob McIver, 64, averaged 7 ppg and 3.9 rpg for Gonzaga from 1973-74 through 1975-76. He was the Zags' runner-up in scoring as a junior with 10.1 ppg.
- John "Jack" McKinney, 83, compiled a 144-77 coaching record (.652) with St. Joseph's in eight seasons from 1966-67 through 1973-74, appearing in the NCAA Tournament four times in a six-year span from 1969 through his last campaign with the Hawks.
- Stan McLaughlin, 66, averaged 2.4 ppg and 1.9 rpg for Tulsa from 1971-72 through 1973-74 under coach Ken Hayes.
- Bayward McManus, 81, averaged 3.2 ppg for Auburn from 1957-58 through 1959-60 under coach Joel Eaves.
- Vernon McMorris, 92, played for Louisiana State in 1942-43 and 1943-44.
- Ron McPhee, 85, averaged 5 ppg and 3.2 rpg as Columbia's captain in 1954-55.
- Gary McPherson, 82, compiled a 32-77 coaching record with Virginia Military in five seasons from 1964-65 through 1968-69 after playing for Washington & Lee VA in the mid-1950s in its waning years as a Southern Conference member.
- Robert Mehl Sr., 93, served in U.S. Navy as pre-flight officer during WWII before averaging 3.5 ppg for Indiana in 1945-46 under coach Branch McCracken. Mehl transferred to Butler, where he averaged 1 ppg in 1947-48 and 1948-49 under coach Tony Hinkle.
- Tom Miltenberger, 71, averaged 2.3 ppg and 2 rpg for Missouri in 1966-67 under coach Bob Vanatta.
- Ashton Mitchell, 29, averaged 8.8 ppg, 2.4 rpg, 4.5 apg and 1.5 spg for Sam Houston State from 2006-07 through 2009-10. Led the Southland Conference in assists each of his last two seasons.
- Glenn Mitchell, 82, was a golfer (ACC Tournament runner-up in 1958) who averaged 1.6 ppg for Virginia in 1955-56.
- John "Swisher" Mitchell, 91, was an All-Yankee Conference first-team selection for Rhode Island as a senior in 1950-51, finishing his three-year career with a scoring average of 7.5 ppg. U.S. Navy veteran's younger brother was U.S. Senator George Mitchell.
- Johnny "Motor" Moates, 73, averaged 19.5 ppg and 4.6 rpg for Richmond from 1964-65 through 1966-67. Led the Spiders in scoring each of last two seasons as All-Southern Conference first-team selection.
- Terry Mobley, 74, averaged 8.1 ppg and 3.6 rpg for Kentucky from 1962-63 through 1964-65.
- Ed Moeller, 99, played for Ohio State in the mid-1940s before serving in U.S. Army in Europe during WWII.
- Rich Mohr, 85, averaged 6.2 ppg and 1.7 rpg for San Francisco in 1951-52 and 1953-54.
- Wally Moon, 87, averaged 4.3 ppg with Texas A&M in 1948-49 and 1949-50. He went on to become a two-time All-Star outfielder-first baseman who hit .289 with the St. Louis Cardinals and Los Angeles Dodgers in 12 National League seasons from 1954 through 1965. Lefthanded swinger homered in first MLB at-bat en route to earning N.L. Rookie of the Year acclaim over Hank Aaron in 1954 when Moon led the league in plate appearances (716) and ranked among the top six in hits (193), triples (9), runs (106) and stolen bases (18).
- Fred Mooney III, 69, averaged 3.2 ppg for Arkansas in 1969-70 and 1970-71.
- Harry "Moo" Moore, 89, averaged 8.9 ppg for West Virginia from 1949-50 through 1951-52. As a senior, the Mountaineers were ranked in the national Top 10.
- John Dennis Moore, 81, averaged 3.6 ppg for Baylor from 1956-57 through 1958-59 under coach Bill Henderson.
- Sammy Moore, 87, averaged 6.6 ppg for Alabama from 1949-50 through 1951-52. He was runner-up in rebounding for the Crimson Tide as a junior and senior.
- Don Morchower, 83, was Georgetown's tallest player in the mid-1950s. He averaged 3.1 ppg.
- Dick Moreshead, 76, averaged 12.2 ppg and 13.7 rpg for Boston University from 1962-63 through 1964-65. He led BU in rebounding average as a sophomore and junior.
- Arthur "Dan" Morgan, 79, averaged 1.2 ppg for South Carolina in 1958-59. He hit .237 as a 2B in the New York Yankees' farm system in 1959 and 1960.
- Erwin Mueller, 74, averaged 12.1 ppg and 8.5 rpg for San Francisco from 1963-64 through 1965-66, leading the Dons in scoring and rebounding average as a senior. Two-time All-WCAC first-team selection was 20th pick overall in NBA draft.
- Charles "Dean" Murdock, 85, played for Bradley in 1951-52 and 1952-53 under coach Forddy Anderson.
- Jim Murphy, 75, averaged 14.9 ppg and 3.5 rpg for DePaul from 1962-63 through 1964-65, finishing among the Blue Demons' top three scorers all three seasons under coach Ray Meyer.
- Stu Murray, 82, scored 1,177 points for Lafayette from 1954-55 through 1956-57. After back-to-back NIT berths, he was leading scorer (22.1 ppg) as senior for school's first-ever NCAA playoff participant. Murray was selected in NBA draft by the Cincinnati Royals (33rd pick overall).
- Willie Murrell, 78, averaged 20.6 ppg and 10.7 rpg for Kansas State as an All-Big Eight Conference first-team selection in 1962-63 and 1963-64. Juco transfer was All-American as senior for the Wildcats' Final Four squad.
- Wojciech Myrda, 39, averaged 9.8 ppg, 6.7 rpg and 4.7 bpg while shooting 52.6% from the floor for Louisiana-Monroe from 1998-99 through 2001-02. The Polish native led the NCAA in blocked shots as a senior with 5.4 bpg after finishing among the nation's top four in that category each of his first three campaigns.
- Boris Nachamkin, 84, averaged 17 ppg and 13.2 rpg for NYU from 1951-52 through 1953-54. He was the Violets' leading rebounder all three seasons and top scorer his last two campaigns before becoming 16th pick overall in NBA draft.
- Dr. Tom Nartker, 81, made his lone FGA in five games for Dayton's NIT runner-up in 1958 under coach Tom Blackburn.
- Willie Naulls, 84, averaged 15.5 ppg and 11.4 rpg for UCLA from 1953-54 through 1955-56. All-American as a senior when two-time All-PCC selection ranked 19th in the nation in rebounding and 21st in scoring.
- Jim Navetta, 69, played for Loyola of Chicago from 1968-69 through 1970-71 under coach George Ireland.
- Dave Neilson averaged 3.8 ppg and 3 rpg for South Carolina from 1953-54 through 1955-56.
- Tommy Nelms, 74, averaged 8.6 ppg and 2.6 rpg for Texas in 1963-64 and 1964-65 under coach Harold Bradley. Nelms' father, Tommie, played for the Longhorns in the inaugural NCAA Tournament in 1939.
- Don Newman, 60, was a LSU/Grambling/Idaho player who compiled a 20-114 coaching record with Cal State Sacramento in five seasons from 1992-93 through 1996-97. Newman played under Dale Brown for LSU (5.5 ppg and 2.3 rpg in 1975-76) before transferring and becoming a two-time All-Big Sky Conference selection with Idaho (17.9 ppg, 3.4 rpg, 5.4 apg and 2.3 spg in 1978-79 and 1979-80).
- C.M. Newton, 88, was a member of Kentucky's 1951 NCAA titlist under Adolph Rupp before compiling a 340-238 record as SEC coach with Alabama (211-123 in 12 seasons from 1968-69 through 1979-80) and Vanderbilt (129-115 in eight seasons from 1981-82 through 1988-89).
- Bob Niles, 77, averaged 2.1 ppg and 1.5 rpg for Oregon State in 1959-60 before his career was cut short in near-fatal car crash leaving him with multiple broken bones.
- Jimmy Nutter, 91, averaged 4.4 ppg for Wichita from 1948-49 through 1950-51 after serving in U.S. Army as a medic in Europe during WWII. He is a school HOF running back.
- Tom Nyire was a backup center for Providence on three NIT teams in the early 1960s under coach Joe Mullaney.
- Fred O'Brien, 84, played for Xavier in the mid-1950s.
- Gerald "Jerry" O'Brien, 85, played for Marquette in 1952-53 under coach Tex Winter.
- Ralph "Buckshot" O'Brien, 90, averaged 13.9 ppg for Butler from 1946-47 through 1949-50. Four-time All-MAC first-team selection ranked among the nation's top 25 in both field-goal and free-throw percentage as a junior.
- Curt O'Daniel, 76, played for Auburn in the mid-1960s.
- Phil O'Hara, 89, played for Georgetown in 1945-46.
- Enoch "Bud" Olsen III, 77, averaged 14.9 ppg and 9.5 rpg for Louisville from 1959-60 through 1961-62. Leading scorer and rebounder as senior for the Cardinals before becoming 13th pick overall in NBA draft following two territorial selections.
- James "Bobby" Paine, 77, played for Alabama in 1960-61 and 1961-62.
- Joe Pangrazio Jr., 72, led Xavier in assists (3.2 apg) and free-throw shooting (89.2%) in 1967-68.
- Billy Parker, 90, was a juco recruit who played for Mississippi in 1948-49 after serving in U.S. Army stateside during WWII.
- John Leonard "J.L." Parks, 90, was among Oklahoma A&M's top five scorers for back-to-back NCAA Tournament titlists in 1945 and 1946 before stationed in Tokyo as part of the Gen. Douglas MacArthur-led Allied occupation of Japan. Parks was a three-time All-Missouri Valley Conference selection (first-teamer twice).
- Bob Patterson, 86, was a two-time All-Missouri Valley Conference selection who averaged 17.1 ppg and 8.1 rpg for Tulsa from 1951-52 through 1954-55. Senior All-American when averaging 27.6 ppg and 13.2 rpg.
- Dr. Norman Paul, 81, was a reserve forward for Iowa's NCAA Tournament runner-up in 1956.
- Ray Pavichevich, 87, averaged 4.2 ppg for Michigan from 1951-52 through 1953-54 and was senior captain of the Wolverines. He was also a member of the school's 1953 CWS champion.
- Henry Peacock, 76, was a juco recruit who led Hardin-Simmons TX in scoring (15.8 ppg) and rebounding (9.7 rpg) in 1964-65 under coach Lou Henson.
- John Penney, 76, played for Idaho in the early 1960s.
- Ray Penno, 92, scored a total of 68 points for Cincinnati in 1944-45 before serving in U.S. Army during WWII.
- John Petry, 79, was an All-Ivy League second-team selection as a senior in 1960-61 when pacing Cornell in scoring (14.6 ppg) and rebounding (12.7 rpg). He averaged 8.2 ppg and 8 rpg in his three-year varsity career.
- Ed Pierce, 88, played for Virginia Tech in the early 1950s.
- Marvin Pilgrim, 82, played for Oklahoma City in 1955-56 under coach Abe Lemons.
- Jimmy Pitts, 74, averaged 15.9 ppg and 3.4 rpg for Georgia from 1962-63 through 1964-65, earning All-SEC third-team selection acclaim in two seasons.
- Scott Plondke, 53, played for Wisconsin in 1983-84 and Northern Iowa in 1985-86 before transferring to UW Platteville, where his coach was Bo Ryan.
- Tom Pollom, 87, played for Purdue in 1950-51 and Butler in 1952-53.
- Dr. Wayne Porter played for West Virginia in 1967-68 under coach Bucky Waters.
- Wayne Pounds, 83, played for Mississippi State in 1955-56 under coach Babe McCarthy.
- Jack Powell, 96, was a co-captain for Auburn in the mid-1940s.
- Bob Prewitt, 93, was an All-SWC second-team selection as a senior for SMU in 1948-49 before compiling an 88-115 coaching record with the Mustangs in eight seasons from 1967-68 through 1974-75. He served in U.S. Army Air Corps during WWII.
- Ron Puterbaugh, 80, played for Miami of Ohio in 1957-58.
- Dr. Bill Quinlan, 85, played for Providence in 1952-53 and 1953-54.
- Gil Radday, 74, averaged 19.4 ppg and 9.2 rpg for St. Francis NY in 1965-66 and 1966-67, leading the Terriers in scoring and rebounding both seasons.
- Carl Raleigh, 78, averaged 2.7 ppg and 2.5 rpg for Houston in 1958-59 under coach Guy Lewis.
- Frank Ramsey, 86, averaged 14.8 ppg and 11.4 rpg for Kentucky from 1950-51 through 1953-54. Three-time All-American was second-leading scorer as senior for undefeated team bypassing national postseason competition after being second-leading rebounder for 1951 NCAA titlist.
- Jim Ranson, 89, averaged 6.8 ppg for Colorado A&M in 1948-49 and 1949-50.
- Pete Rasmussen, 75, was on Montana's roster in 1962-63.
- Craig Raymond, 73, averaged 8.5 ppg and 7.1 rpg with Brigham Young from 1964-65 through 1966-67, earning All-WAC second-team honors as a senior. Regular for 1966 NIT titlist prior to leading the Cougars in scoring and rebounding as senior before becoming 12th pick overall in NBA draft.
- Jerry Redo, 68, attended Oklahoma State on a football scholarship before incurring neck injury and playing hoops under coach Hank Iba in 1969-70.
- Steve Reid Jr., 66, averaged 1.3 ppg and 1.7 rpg for Boston College in 1971-72 and 1972-73.
- Gerard "Gerry" Reidy Sr., 80, served in the U.S. Navy before averaging 3.6 ppg for Seton Hall from 1961-62 through 1963-64.
- Ron Reis Sr., 78, was a reserve center for Cincinnati's back-to-back NCAA titlists in 1961 and 1962 under coach Ed Jucker. Reis' son was a two-time All-WCC selection with Santa Clara in the early 1990s prior to becoming a pro wrestler.
- Gene Rhodes, 90, was a letterman for three Western Kentucky NIT teams in the late 1940s and early 1950s. He earned All-Ohio Valley Conference honors as a senior.
- Jim Riffey, 94, was Tulane's leading scorer in 1948-49 and 1949-50 under coach Clifford Wells. All-SEC selection before becoming 19th pick overall in 1950 NBA draft. He aligned with the Green Wave after serving in U.S. Army Air Corps during WWII.
- Ricky Rightnowar, 48, averaged 5.5 ppg and 2.3 rpg for Toledo from 1988-89 through 1992-93. He converted 22-of-23 FTs when contributing career-high 32 points as junior against Kent State en route to finishing season as the Rockets' runner-up in scoring average.
- Ed Riska Jr., 64, averaged 4 ppg and 1.8 apg for Houston from 1972-73 through 1974-75 under coach Guy Lewis.
- Ramon "Chung" Rivera, 52, averaged 1.6 ppg for Houston in 1985-86 under coach Guy Lewis.
- Charlie "Pete" Robinson, 90, was Vanderbilt's third-leading scorer as junior in 1948-49 after serving in U.S. Navy.
- Chuck Rolles, 84, was a three-time All-Ivy League selection who averaged 16.9 ppg for Cornell from 1953-54 through 1955-56 (including school-record 23 ppg as senior).
- Robert Rosen, 74, played for Brown in 1962-63.
- Jim Routson, 79, averaged 8.2 ppg and 5.2 rpg for Bowling Green State from 1958-59 through 1960-61 under coach Harold Anderson. Routson was a sophomore regular for the Falcons' first NCAA tourney team before becoming senior captain.
- Harrell "Clark" Royer, 80, played for Georgia in 1958-59 and 1959-60.
- Clifford Rozier, 45, was a backup for North Carolina's 1991 Final Four team prior to transferring and becoming an All-American as senior with Louisville in 1993-94 (18.1 ppg/11.1 rpg/61.8 FG%) before declaring early for the NBA draft.
- Cliff Russell, 61, played for Texas-El Paso in mid-1970s under coach Don Haskins before transferring back to his Detroit hometown at Wayne State.
- LeRoy Rutz, 86, averaged 3.7 ppg for Wyoming's NCAA tourney team in 1952 under coach Everett Shelton.
- James "Gene" Sally, 86, scored 31 points for Missouri in 1953-54. OF hit .191 in the Baltimore Orioles' farm system in 1954.
- Dick Santaniello, 83, averaged 3.5 ppg and 2.6 rpg for Holy Cross from 1953-54 through 1955-56. Teammate of All-American Tom Heinsohn on NIT champion when they were sophomores.
- Davon Satterwhite, 45, averaged 8.3 ppg and 2.7 rpg for Fresno State from 1991-92 through 1994-95.
- Don Scanlon Sr., 87, was a three-year letterman for Penn under coach Howie Dallmar. All-EIBL (forerunner of Ivy League) second-team selection as a senior in 1951-52 when he was the Tigers' captain.
- Bob Schermerhorn, 75, compiled a 2-7 record as Arizona State's interim coach in 1988-89.
- Howie Schueller, 91, averaged 5.8 ppg for Xavier in 1947-48 after serving in U.S. Navy during WWII.
- Frederick "Fritz" Schulz, 87, was Tulane's leading scorer and rebounder as a senior in 1952-53.
- John Schwartz Sr., 91, played for Wisconsin in 1949-50 under coach Bud Foster after serving in U.S. Army in Philippines campaign during WWII.
- Rod Scott, 59, averaged 5.4 ppg and 2.7 rpg for Duquesne from 1978-79 through 1981-82.
- Dan Seemann, 88, played for Columbia in 1949-50. Sons Jeff and Mitch were guards for Toledo, where their father taught for nearly 50 years and was chairman of the athletic board in the 1970s.
- Nick Serdich, 79, was a West Virginia teammate of Jerry West and Rod Thorn in the early 1960s.
- Don Shealy, 84, averaged 1.4 ppg for Clemson in 1954-55. He was also a standout baseball pitcher before incurring career-ending injury. His father, Al, pitched for World Series champion New York Yankees in 1928.
- Kendall Sheets, 86, was three-year letterman for Oklahoma A&M from 1950-51 through 1952-53. Member of Final Four squad as a sophomore led the Missouri Valley Conference in free-throw shooting as a senior (81.3%).
- Lonnie Shelton, 62, averaged 16.2 ppg, 8.4 rpg and 2.7 apg for Oregon State from 1973-74 through 1975-76 before declaring early for the pros as an undergraduate. First-team All-Pac-8 Conference selection as sophomore led the Beavers in scoring and rebounding all three seasons under coach Ralph Miller.
- Kaz Shinzato, 81, played for Southern California in 1956-57 after leading the Trojans' freshman squad in scoring the previous season.
- Gordon Shumway, 85, averaged 2.1 ppg for Arizona State in 1953-54.
- Ron Siegrist, 93, averaged 5.3 ppg for Maryland in 1948-49 after serving in U.S. Navy as an Electrician's Mate during WWII.
- Bob "Whitey" Siewarga, 80, was a Seattle teammate of All-American Elgin Baylor in 1957-58.
- Eddie Simmons, 59, averaged 6.5 ppg for Canisius in 1977-78 and 1978-79.
- Milt Simon, 92, was a U.S. Navy veteran during WWII who became a four-year Penn State letterman. Leading scorer as senior captain for the Nittany Lions in 1948-49.
- Raffe Simonian, 85, played for DePaul in the early 1950s under coach Ray Meyer.
- Bernie Simpson, 81, averaged 2.5 ppg for California in the late 1950s. He was a member of the Bears' 1959 NCAA titlist as a senior.
- Wayde Sims, 20, averaged 6 ppg and 3.3 rpg for Louisiana State in 2016-17 and 2017-18. He was fatally shot about 12:30 a.m. several miles from campus the morning of the team's first official practice (following a scheduled 6:30 a.m. workout).
- Allen Smith, 69, was a junior-college recruit who averaged 10.4 ppg for Michigan State in 1971-72 and 1972-73.
- Raymond "Jim" Smith, 71, averaged 20.1 ppg and 14.4 rpg for Northern Illinois in 1967-68 and 1968-69 when Huskies made transition to NCAA DI level. He was their leading scorer and rebounder each campaign (finishing among nation's top 30 in rebounding both years). Juco recruit after first attending Memphis State was first NIU player ever selected in NBA draft.
- William "Beaver" Smith, 63, averaged 11.3 ppg and 7.7 rpg for St. John's from 1972-73 through 1975-76. Co-captain as senior was runner-up in team rebounding each of his last three seasons.
- Dr. Bill Smitheran, 84, averaged 6 ppg and 4.7 rpg for Arizona in the first half of 1950s. He was named team MVP as a senior in 1953-54.
- Bill Soelberg, 84, played for Nebraska in 1951-52 and 1952-53.
- Louie Soriano, 88, was a three-year letterman for Washington and assists leader for NCAA Tournament West Regional third-place team as senior in 1950-51. He was a two-time All-PCC North Division selection.
- Jerry Spanner, 86, averaged 7 ppg and 6.7 rpg for Washington State in 1956-57. He served in U.S. Air Force during the Korean War.
- Howard Stacey, 79, averaged 6.2 ppg for Louisville from 1958-59 through 1960-61. Sophomore member of the Cardinals' first Final Four team. Interim coach for his alma mater in 1970-71 (12-8 record) before compiling a 34-44 mark coaching Drake for three seasons from 1971-72 through 1973-74.
- Stan Stanford, 87, played for Eastern Kentucky's first NCAA tourney team in 1953 as a senior.
- Gene Stauffer, 85, was Kansas State's second-leading scorer as senior co-captain in 1953-54 under coach Tex Winter after finishing third in scoring for K-State the previous season under coach Jack Gardner.
- Alan Stein, 87, averaged 8.1 ppg for Columbia from 1949-50 through 1951-52. Two-time All-Ivy League selection was key member of 1950-51 team that went undefeated during the regular season.
- Herb Steinkamp Jr., 75, averaged 11.6 ppg and 2.6 rpg for Rice from 1961-62 through 1963-64. All-SWC second-team selection as a senior.
- Dick Stewart, 70, compiled a 13-39 coaching record with Fordham in 1976-77 and 1977-78. Averaged 10.6 ppg and 4.8 rpg for Rutgers from 1966-67 through 1968-69. Teammate of Jim Valvano on 1967 NIT team served as an assistant coach under him at North Carolina State.
- Greg Stewart, 57, averaged 14 ppg and 6.6 rpg for Tulsa in 1980-81 and 1981-82. Juco recruit was named MVP for 1981 NIT champion as the Golden Hurricane's leader in scoring and rebounding.
- Bill Stokes, 89, compiled a 26-43 coaching record for Middle Tennessee State in three seasons from 1962-63 through 1964-65.
- Gary Stoll, 80, averaged 10.7 ppg and 4.5 rpg for Tulane from 1956-57 through 1958-59 under coach Clifford Wells. Stoll was an All-SEC second-team selection as a senior.
- Royce "Roy" Stoll, 84, averaged 10.3 ppg and 4.6 rpg for Tulane from 1952-53 through 1955-56 under coach Clifford Wells.
- Joe Stottlebower, 91, was one of Michigan's top scorers in the 1940s, playing for the Wolverines' first NCAA tourney team in 1948. He served in the U.S. Army's 42nd Infantry Division in Europe during WWII before recalled to military duty for Korean War.
- Jim Stouffer, 81, averaged 2.4 ppg for Michigan State from 1956-57 through 1958-59 (including two Big Ten Conference champions).
- Troye Svendson, 92, was a Marine Corps veteran who played for Tulane in the late 1940s.
- John Szponar, 66, averaged 5.1 ppg and 3 rpg for Tulane from 1970-71 through 1972-73.
- Willie Tatum Jr., 51, was Pacific's second-leading rebounder (6.3 rpg) and third-leading scorer (10.1 ppg) in 1987-88. Ninth-round MLB draft choice was a 1B in the Boston Red Sox' farm system for six years.
- Bill Taylor, 75, played for North Carolina in 1962-63 under coach Dean Smith.
- Cal "Terry" Tebbs, 84, averaged 14.8 ppg for Brigham Young from 1953-54 through 1955-56. Two-time All-Skyline Eight Conference first-team selection led the Cougars in scoring as a senior with 19.5 ppg.
- Jack Thobe, 78, averaged 16.7 ppg and 9.3 rpg for Xavier from 1959-60 through 1961-62, leading the Muskeeters in scoring all three seasons.
- Daryl Thomas, 52, averaged 10.3 ppg and 4 rpg with Indiana from 1983-84 through 1986-87. Second-leading scorer and rebounder as senior for NCAA Tournament titlist.
- Henry "Hank" Thomas Jr., 64, averaged 1.2 ppg for Bradley from 1971-72 through 1973-74.
- Johnny "J.J." Thomas, 25, was a part-time starting forward for Louisiana-Lafayette and Cal State Northridge from 2010-11 through 2013-14. All-Sun Belt Conference second-team selection as a freshman.
- Ron Thomas, 67, was a juco recruit who averaged 14.6 ppg and 13.1 rpg for Louisville in 1970-71 and 1971-72, leading the Cardinals in rebounding each season including as an All-Missouri Valley Conference first-team selection with their 1972 national fourth-place team under coach Denny Crum.
- M.C. Thompson, 77, averaged 15.6 ppg and 13.7 rpg for DePaul from 1960-61 through 1962-63 under coach Ray Meyer. He still holds the Blue Demons' school record for career rebounding average after ranking among the nation's top 14 in rebound percentage as sophomore and junior.
- Taylor Thorne, 93, averaged 3.8 ppg as a sophomore for North Carolina's 1946 NCAA Tournament runner-up. During WWII, he served in the 8th Air Force commanded by Major General Jimmy Doolittle.
- Pete Tillotson, 81, averaged 12.9 ppg and 9.5 rpg for Michigan from 1955-56 through 1957-58, leading the Wolverines in scoring and rebounding as senior.
- Marquis Todd, 22, played briefly for Jackson State in 2013-14 before transferring to small college in Iowa via a juco. Chicago native was stabbed to death after what police believed was a minor vehicle accident.
- Gene "Bumper" Tormohlen, 81, was a two-time All-SEC first-team selection who averaged 15.5 ppg and 16.9 rpg for Tennessee from 1956-57 through 1958-59. All-American as senior ranked among the nation's Top 16 in rebounding percentage all three seasons.
- Garland Townes, 92, averaged 1.6 ppg for Kentucky from 1947-48 through 1949-50 after serving in U.S. Marine Corps during WWII. Member of back-to-back NCAA Tournament titlists in 1948 and 1949 under coach Adolph Rupp.
- B.J. Trickey, 69, averaged 1.4 ppg for Southern Illinois in 1968-69 under coach Jack Hartman.
- Bill Trumbo, 79, compiled a 27-59 coaching record with Idaho in three seasons from 1983-84 through 1985-86.
- Cliff Tucker, 29, averaged 6 ppg and 2.3 rpg for Maryland from 2007-08 through 2010-11.
- Kenny Tyler averaged 15 ppg and 4.8 rpg for Gonzaga in 1973-74 and 1974-75. Juco recruit was an All-Big Sky Conference selection both years, leading the Bulldogs in scoring his final season.
- Carl "Teeter" Umstead, 88, averaged 8.3 ppg for Georgia Tech from 1949-50 through 1951-52.
- Hal Turner, 84, averaged 4.4 ppg and 1.8 rpg for Duke from 1952-53 through 1954-55 under coach Harold Bradley.
- Jerry Turner, 69, led Texas Tech in rebounding in 1968-69 with 11.6 rpg.
- Zeke Upshaw, 26, averaged 1.6 ppg for Illinois State from 2010-11 through 2012-13 before transferring and leading Hofstra in scoring with 19.8 ppg in 2013-14.
- Jerry Varland, 79, played for Tulane in the early 1960s.
- Brian Vickers, 58, averaged 1.5 ppg for Iona from 1978-79 through 1980-81 under coaches Jim Valvano and Pat Kennedy.
- Dale Vieau, 88, averaged 1.2 ppg for Indiana from 1949-50 through 1951-52 under coach Branch McCracken before serving in U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict.
- Immanuel Washington, 38, averaged 2.4 ppg and 1.9 rpg for Louisiana-Lafayette in 2001-02 and 2002-03.
- Alvin West, 49, averaged 8.8 ppg, 2.5 rpg and 1.1 spg for East Tennessee State from 1987-88 through 1990-91, appearing in NCAA playoffs each of his last three seasons.
- Dave West, 78, averaged 2.8 ppg and 3.9 rpg for Miami (Ohio) in 1959-60 and 1962-63.
- Rick Wheeler Sr., 81, was on Florida's roster in 1957-58.
- Joseph "Jo Jo" White, 71, averaged 15.3 ppg and 4.9 rpg as three-time All-American for Kansas from 1965-66 to 1968-69 under coach Ted Owens before becoming ninth pick overall in NBA draft.
- Bob Williams, 77, averaged 5.9 ppg and 4.5 rpg for NYU from 1960-61 through 1962-63. Captain of Violets' team that lost to Duke in 1963 Sweet 16 was founding president of the New York City Basketball Hall of Fame.
- Henry Williams, 47, averaged 20.2 ppg and 3.4 rpg for UNC Charlotte from 1988-89 through 1991-92 under coach Jeff Mullins, leading the 49ers in scoring each of his last three seasons.
- Fred "Tex" Winter, 96, compiled a 452-335 coaching record in 30 college seasons (25-25 with Marquette in 1951-52 and 1952-53, 262-117 with Kansas State from 1953-54 through 1967-68, 45-35 with Washington from 1968-69 through 1970-71, 42-89 with Northwestern from 1973-74 through 1977-78 and 78-69 with Long Beach State from 1978-79 through 1982-83). Named national coach of the year in 1957-58 in first of two times he guided K-State to Final Four in a seven-season span. Winter was a letterman for USC in 1946-47 under coach Sam Barry.
- Grant Wittberger, 87, averaged 11.3 ppg and 10 rpg for Marquette in 1950-51 and 1951-52. Leading rebounder both seasons after transferring from Macalester MN.
- Calvin Wunsch, 91, served in U.S. Navy during WWII before lettering for Marquette in 1945-46 and transferring to Wheaton College IL.
- Bill Yarborough Jr., 86, played for Wake Forest in ACC's inaugural season in 1953-54 under coach Murray Greason.
- Gene Young, 76, averaged 6 ppg and 5.7 rpg for Weber State in 1963-64 under coach Dick Motta.
- Martin "Marty" Zippel, 96, scored 1,067 points for Lafayette from 1945-46 through 1948-49 (averaging 12 ppg and 11.8 ppg his last two seasons) after serving in Army Air Corps during WWII.
RIP LISTS FROM PREVIOUS SIX YEARS
Centre Court: Small College Handed UK and UL Their Most-Lopsided Losses
It's no secret Greek restaurant connoisseur Rick Pitino, the biggest loser last year, coached both Kentucky and Louisville to NCAA Tournament championships. But following is a UK/UL connection hoop secret ESPN's best researcher doesn't know: Centre College in Danville, Ky., boasts a distinction possibly rendering Dickie V speechless insofar as the Colonels blew up both Death Stars - UK (87-17 in 1909-10) and UL (61-7 in 1919-20) - by more than 50 points, handing each perennial power its most lopsided defeat in their vaunted history. The Cardinals lost five consecutive contests against Centre from 1939 to 1941 after the Wildcats dropped six straight decisions against Centre from 1918 to 1921.
If you need bar-bet winning information, additional major universities succumbing by staggering record-setting margins in the Dinosaur Age against obscure opponents include Bradley (bowed to Millikin), Cincinnati (Circleville), Connecticut (Wesleyan), Duke (Washington & Lee), Massachusetts (Williams), North Carolina (Lynchburg YMCA Elks), Oklahoma State (Southwestern KS), Pittsburgh (Westminster), Rhode Island (Amherst), USC (L.A. Athletic Club) and Wichita State (Ottawa).
The "Final Five" DI schools reaching the NCAA playoff national semifinals at some point in their careers to win at least 20 games in a major-college season when suffering their most-lopsided setback include Indiana (1993-94), Louisiana State (1969-70), St. John's (1951-52), Texas-El Paso (2000-01) and UCLA (1996-97). Kentucky was the opponent when Florida, Georgia, St. John's, Temple, Tennessee, Tennessee-Martin, Tulsa and Vanderbilt were saddled with their worst reversals.
IU's 106-56 loss against Minnesota in 1993-94 came only two years after the Big Ten Conference rivals reversed roles when the Hoosiers handed the Gophers their most-lopsided setback in history (96-50). In 1997-98, Missouri rebounded from the Tigers' most-lopsided reversal in school history (111-56 at Kansas State in Big 12 Conference opener) to defeat the Wildcats in their return engagement (89-59 at Mizzou in regular-season finale) for an incredible 85-point turnaround in margin.
Dr. James Naismith founded the game of basketball but he apparently didn't boast any "inside" information gaining a competitive edge. In fact, Naismith is the only one of Kansas' first nine full-season head coaches to compile a career losing record (55-60 in nine campaigns from 1898-99 through 1906-07). One of the defeats was by an all-time high 40 points against Nebraska.
Naismith is among the following coaches, including a striking number of luminaries (such as Harold Anderson, Gene Bartow, Ben Carnevale, Gale Catlett, Chick Davies, Bill Foster, Marv Harshman, Doggie Julian, Bob Knight, Guy Lewis, Rick Majerus, Phil Martelli, Frank McGuire, Shelby Metcalf, Lute Olson, Johnny Orr, Vadal Peterson, Digger Phelps, Honey Russell and Norm Stewart) incurring the most-lopsided loss in history for an NCAA Division I university (info unavailable for some DI schools listed alphabetically below):
| Losing DI School | Season | Record | Coach | Victorious Opponent | Score | Margin |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air Force | 1965-66 | 14-12 | Bob Spear | Utah | 108-57 | 51 |
| Alabama | 1997-98 | 15-16 | David Hobbs | Auburn | 94-40 | 54 |
| Alabama State | 1996-97 | 8-21 | Rob Spivery | Minnesota | 114-34 | 80 |
| American | 1964-65 | 4-19 | Jimmy Williams | Syracuse | 127-67 | 60 |
| Appalachian State | 1972-73 | 6-20 | Press Maravich | North Carolina State | 130-53 | 77 |
| Arizona | 1955-56 | 11-15 | Fred Enke | Utah | 119-45 | 74 |
| Arizona State | 1955-56 | 10-16 | Bill Kajikawa | Texas Tech | 113-63 | 50 |
| Arkansas | 1973-74 | 10-16 | Lanny Van Eman | Mississippi | 117-66 | 51 |
| Army | 1913-14 | 5-7 | Joseph Stilwell | Union | 81-13 | 68 |
| Auburn | 1912-13 | 6-9 | Mike Donahue | Georgia | 92-12 | 80 |
| Austin Peay | 1981-82 | 6-20 | Ron Bargatze | Clemson | 102-53 | 49 |
| Ball State | 1946-47 | 9-8 | Pete Phillips | Notre Dame | 80-31 | 49 |
| Ball State | 1987-88 | 14-14 | Rick Majerus | Purdue | 96-47 | 49 |
| Baylor | 1944-45 | 0-17 | Van Sweet | Arkansas | 94-28 | 66 |
| Bethune-Cookman | 1991-92 | 4-25 | Jack "Cy" McClairen | Arkansas | 128-46 | 82 |
| Boston College | 1955-56 | 6-18 | Don Martin | Marshall | 130-69 | 61 |
| Boston University | 1905-06 | 2-4 | unavailable | Wesleyan CT | 74-7 | 67 |
| Bowling Green | 1954-55 | 6-16 | Harold Anderson | Dayton | 109-38 | 71 |
| Bradley | 1913-14 | 10-10 | Fred Brown | Millikin IL | 62-10 | 52 |
| Brigham Young | 1996-97 | 1-25 | Roger Reid | Washington | 95-44 | 51 |
| Brown | 1988-89 | 7-19 | Mike Cingiser | Kansas | 115-45 | 70 |
| Butler | 1954-55 | 10-14 | Tony Hinkle | Illinois | 88-34 | 54 |
| California | 1999-00 | 18-15 | Ben Braun | Stanford | 101-50 | 51 |
| UC Irvine | 1975-76 | 14-12 | Tim Tift | UNLV | 129-57 | 72 |
| UC Santa Barbara | 1966-67 | 10-16 | Ralph Barkey | UCLA | 119-75 | 44 |
| UC Santa Barbara | 1976-77 | 8-18 | Ralph Barkey | UNLV | 113-69 | 44 |
| Cal State Fullerton | 1964-65 | 1-25 | Alex Omalev | U.S. International | 91-32 | 59 |
| Campbell | 1997-98 | 10-17 | Billy Lee | Florida International | 96-43 | 53 |
| Centenary | 1987-88 | 13-15 | Tommy Canterbury | Oklahoma | 152-84 | 68 |
| Central Connecticut State | 1995-96 | 13-15 | Mark Adams | Connecticut | 116-46 | 70 |
| Central Michigan | 1911-12 | 2-5 | Harry Helmer | Michigan State | 72-10 | 62 |
| Cincinnati | 1901-02 | 5-4 | Henry S. Pratt | Circleville OH | 84-13 | 71 |
| Clemson | 1954-55 | 2-21 | Banks McFadden | Duke | 115-54 | 61 |
| Colorado | 1951-52 | 8-16 | Horace "Bebe" Lee | Kansas State | 92-40 | 52 |
| Connecticut | 1905-06 | 6-3 | unofficial | Wesleyan CT | 86-12 | 74 |
| Creighton | 1948-49 | 9-14 | Duce Belford | Illinois | 96-30 | 66 |
| Dartmouth | 1966-67 | 7-17 | Alvin "Doggie" Julian | Princeton | 116-42 | 74 |
| Davidson | 1908-09 | 1-3 | J.W. Rhea | Georgia | 100-12 | 88 |
| Dayton | 1994-95 | 7-20 | Oliver Purnell | Cincinnati | 116-63 | 53 |
| DePaul | 2010-11 | 7-24 | Oliver Purnell | Syracuse | 107-59 | 48 |
| Detroit | 2015-16 | 16-15 | Ray McCallum | Vanderbilt | 102-52 | 50 |
| Drake | 1998-99 | 10-17 | Kurt Kanaskie | Indiana | 102-46 | 56 |
| Duke | 1912-13 | 11-8 | J.E. Brinn | Washington & Lee VA | 90-15 | 75 |
| Duquesne | 1937-38 | 6-11 | Charles "Chick" Davies | Stanford | 92-27 | 65 |
| East Carolina | 1963-64 | 9-15 | Wendell Carr | Davidson | 105-45 | 60 |
| East Tennessee State | 1996-97 | 7-20 | Ed DeChellis | Davidson | 97-47 | 50 |
| East Tennessee State | 2007-08 | 19-13 | Murry Bartow | Syracuse | 125-75 | 50 |
| Eastern Illinois | 2001-02 | 15-16 | Rick Samuels | Oklahoma | 109-50 | 59 |
| Eastern Michigan | 1957-58 | 1-20 | James Skala | Southern Illinois | 128-60 | 68 |
| Evansville | 1960-61 | 11-16 | Arad McCutchan | Utah | 132-77 | 55 |
| Fairfield | 2014-15 | 7-24 | Sydney Johnson | Duke | 109-59 | 50 |
| Florida | 1947-48 | 15-10 | Sam McAllister | Kentucky | 87-31 | 56 |
| Florida A&M | 1992-93 | 10-18 | Willie Booker | Oklahoma | 146-65 | 81 |
| Florida Atlantic | 2000-01 | 7-24 | Sidney Green | Florida | 100-42 | 58 |
| Florida International | 1989-90 | 7-21 | Rich Walker | Ball State | 105-50 | 55 |
| Florida State | 1957-58 | 9-16 | J.K. "Bud" Kennedy | West Virginia | 103-51 | 52 |
| Fordham | 1908-09 | 17-12 | Chris Mahoney | Williams MA | 77-12 | 65 |
| George Mason | 1970-71 | 9-17 | John Linn | Randolph-Macon VA | 118-36 | 82 |
| George Washington | 1961-62 | 9-15 | Bill Reinhart | West Virginia | 120-68 | 52 |
| Georgetown | 1912-13 | 11-5 | James Colliflower | Navy | 67-18 | 49 |
| Georgia | 1955-56 | 3-21 | Harbin Lawson | Kentucky | 143-66 | 77 |
| Georgia State | 1994-95 | 11-17 | Carter Wilson | Memphis State | 124-52 | 72 |
| Georgia Tech | 1908-09 | 1-6 | John Heisman | Georgia | 78-9 | 69 |
| Gonzaga | 1945-46 | 6-14 | Gordon White | Montana | 103-34 | 69 |
| Grambling State | 1999-00 | 1-30 | Larry Wright | Louisiana State | 112-37 | 75 |
| Harvard | 1989-90 | 12-14 | Peter Roby | Duke | 130-54 | 76 |
| Hawaii | 1965-66 | 0-18 | Ephraim "Red" Rocha | Washington | 111-52 | 59 |
| Hofstra | 1944-45 | 8-13 | Jack Smith | USMMA | 66-15 | 51 |
| Holy Cross | 1901-02 | 4-5 | Fred Powers | Dartmouth | 78-27 | 51 |
| Houston | 1975-76 | 17-11 | Guy Lewis | Arkansas | 92-47 | 45 |
| Howard | 2000-01 | 10-18 | Frankie Allen | Memphis | 112-42 | 70 |
| Idaho | 1976-77 | 5-21 | Jim Jarvis | UNLV | 135-78 | 57 |
| Idaho State | 1992-93 | 10-18 | Herb Williams | Oklahoma | 112-59 | 53 |
| Illinois | 1973-74 | 5-18 | Harv Schmidt | Indiana | 107-67 | 40 |
| Illinois State | 1958-59 | 24-4 | James Collie | Tennessee State | 131-74 | 57 |
| Indiana | 1993-94 | 21-9 | Bob Knight | Minnesota | 106-56 | 50 |
| Indiana State | 1910-11 | 2-8 | John P. Kimmel | Purdue | 112-6 | 106 |
| Iona | 1967-68 | 13-9 | Jim McDermott | Duquesne | 100-47 | 53 |
| Iowa | 1974-75 | 10-16 | Lute Olson | Indiana | 102-49 | 53 |
| Iowa State | 1989-90 | 10-18 | Johnny Orr | Indiana | 115-66 | 49 |
| Jacksonville | 2017-18 | 15-18 | Tony Jasick | North Carolina State | 116-64 | 52 |
| James Madison | 2005-06 | 5-23 | Dean Keener | Texas A&M-Corpus Christi | 93-52 | 41 |
| Kansas | 1899-00 | 3-4 | Dr. James Naismith | Nebraska | 48-8 | 40 |
| Kansas State | 1945-46 | 4-20 | Fritz Knorr | Marshall | 88-42 | 46 |
| Kentucky | 1909-10 | 4-8 | R.E. Spahr/E.R. Sweetland | Centre KY | 87-17 | 70 |
| Lafayette | 1994-95 | 2-25 | John Leone | Connecticut | 110-48 | 62 |
| Lamar | 1963-64 | 19-6 | Jack Martin | St. Louis | 113-63 | 50 |
| La Salle | 2015-16 | 9-22 | John Giannini | Miami (Fla.) | 95-49 | 46 |
| Lehigh | 1901-02 | 9-5 | J.W. Pollard | Bucknell | 68-3 | 65 |
| Long Beach State | 1990-91 | 11-17 | Seth Greenberg | UNLV | 114-63 | 51 |
| Long Island | 1998-99 | 10-17 | Ray Martin | Florida | 119-61 | 58 |
| Louisiana-Monroe | 1997-98 | 13-16 | Mike Vining | Xavier | 118-61 | 57 |
| Louisiana State | 1969-70 | 22-10 | Press Maravich | UCLA | 133-84 | 49 |
| Louisiana Tech | 1974-75 | 12-13 | Emmett Hendricks | Tulane | 88-40 | 48 |
| Louisville | 1919-20 | 6-5 | Tuley Brucker | Centre KY | 61-7 | 54 |
| Loyola of Chicago | 1916-17 | 1-3 | unavailable | Whiting Owls | 91-21 | 70 |
| Loyola Marymount | 1990-91 | 16-15 | Jay Hillock | Oklahoma | 172-112 | 60 |
| Maine | 1973-74 | 13-10 | Tom "Skip" Chappelle | Massachusetts | 108-38 | 70 |
| Manhattan | 1985-86 | 2-26 | Thomas Sullivan | North Carolina | 129-45 | 84 |
| Marquette | 2004-05 | 19-12 | Tom Crean | Louisville | 99-52 | 47 |
| Marshall | 1913-14 | 2-6 | Boyd Chambers | Cincinnati Church of Christ | 68-10 | 58 |
| Maryland | 1943-44 | 4-14 | H. Burton Shipley | Army | 85-22 | 63 |
| Massachusetts | 1907-08 | 4-11 | unofficial | Williams MA | 60-3 | 57 |
| Memphis | 1927-28 | 10-11 | Zach Curlin | Elks Club | 79-30 | 49 |
| Miami (Fla.) | 1969-70 | 9-17 | Ron Godfrey | UCLA | 127-69 | 58 |
| Miami (Ohio) | 1948-49 | 8-13 | Blue Foster | Cincinnati | 94-36 | 58 |
| Michigan | 1999-00 | 15-14 | Brian Ellerbe | Michigan State | 114-63 | 51 |
| Michigan State | 1974-75 | 17-9 | Gus Ganakas | Indiana | 107-55 | 52 |
| Middle Tennessee State | 1954-55 | 11-16 | Charles Greer | Morehead State | 123-68 | 55 |
| Milwaukee | 1962-63 | 4-17 | Russ Rebholz | Loyola of Chicago | 107-47 | 60 |
| Minnesota | 1991-92 | 16-16 | Clem Haskins | Indiana | 96-50 | 46 |
| Mississippi | 1913-14 | 8-7 | B.Y. Walton | Mississippi State | 84-18 | 66 |
| Mississippi State | 1992-93 | 13-16 | Richard Williams | Arkansas | 115-58 | 57 |
| Missouri | 1997-98 | 17-15 | Norm Stewart | Kansas State | 111-56 | 55 |
| Missouri State | 1980-81 | 9-21 | Bob Cleeland | Puget Sound WA | 103-50 | 53 |
| Morehead State | 1992-93 | 6-21 | Dick Fick | Michigan State | 121-53 | 68 |
| Murray State | 1960-61 | 13-10 | Cal Luther | St. Bonaventure | 92-39 | 53 |
| Navy | 1963-64 | 10-12 | Ben Carnevale | Duke | 121-65 | 56 |
| Nebraska | 1957-58 | 10-13 | Jerry Bush | Kansas | 102-46 | 56 |
| Nevada | 1990-91 | 17-14 | Len Stevens | UNLV | 131-81 | 50 |
| New Mexico | 1954-55 | 7-17 | Woody Clements | UCLA | 106-41 | 65 |
| New Orleans | 2013-14 | 11-15 | Mark Slessinger | Michigan State | 101-48 | 53 |
| NYU | 1912-13 | 1-11 | James Dale | Navy | 74-13 | 61 |
| Niagara | 1996-97 | 11-17 | Jack Armstrong | Kansas | 134-73 | 61 |
| Nicholls State | 2002-03 | 3-25 | Ricky Blanton | Texas Tech | 107-35 | 72 |
| North Carolina | 1914-15 | 6-10 | Charles Doak | Lynchburg YMCA Elks | 63-20 | 43 |
| UNC Asheville | 1997-98 | 19-9 | Eddie Biedenbach | Maryland | 110-52 | 58 |
| North Carolina A&T | 1976-77 | 3-24 | Warren Reynolds | North Carolina State | 107-46 | 61 |
| North Carolina State | 1920-21 | 6-14 | Richard Crozier | North Carolina | 62-10 | 52 |
| UNC Wilmington | 1996-97 | 16-14 | Jerry Wainwright | Villanova | 87-38 | 49 |
| North Texas | 1998-99 | 4-22 | Vic Trilli | Maryland | 132-57 | 75 |
| Northern Arizona | 1991-92 | 7-20 | Harold Merritt | Louisiana State | 159-86 | 73 |
| Northern Illinois | 1966-67 | 8-12 | Tom Jorgensen | Bradley | 117-66 | 51 |
| Northern Iowa | 1906-07 | 5-4 | R.F. Seymour | Iowa | 73-16 | 57 |
| Northwestern | 1986-87 | 7-21 | Bill E. Foster | Duke | 106-55 | 51 |
| Northwestern State | 2000-01 | 19-13 | Mike McConathy | Arkansas | 115-47 | 68 |
| Notre Dame | 1971-72 | 6-20 | Digger Phelps | Indiana | 94-29 | 65 |
| Ohio | 1902-03 | TBD | unavailable | Ohio State | 88-2 | 86 |
| Ohio State | 1955-56 | 16-6 | Floyd Stahl | Illinois | 111-64 | 47 |
| Oklahoma | 1916-17 | 13-8 | Bennie Owen | Oklahoma A&M | 58-11 | 47 |
| Oklahoma State | 1919-20 | 1-12 | James Pixlee | Southwestern KS | 53-9 | 44 |
| Oral Roberts | 1992-93 | 5-22 | Ken Trickey | Kansas | 140-72 | 68 |
| Oregon | 1921-22 | 7-24 | George Bohler | Washington | 76-15 | 61 |
| Oregon State | 1996-97 | 7-20 | Eddie Payne | Arizona | 99-48 | 51 |
| Oregon State | 2009-10 | 14-18 | Craig Robinson | Seattle | 99-48 | 51 |
| Pacific | 1952-53 | 2-20 | Van Sweet | California | 87-30 | 57 |
| Penn | 1987-88 | 10-16 | Tom Schneider | UCLA | 98-49 | 49 |
| Penn State | 1985-86 | 12-17 | Bruce Parkhill | Navy | 103-50 | 53 |
| Pepperdine | 1965-66 | 2-24 | Robert "Duck" Dowell | Iowa | 111-50 | 61 |
| Pittsburgh | 1905-06 | 2-9 | Benjamin Printz | Westminster PA | 106-13 | 93 |
| Portland | 1966-67 | 10-16 | Al Negratti | UCLA | 122-57 | 65 |
| Portland State | 1964-65 | 8-18 | Loyal "Sharkey" Nelson | Montana State | 97-43 | 54 |
| Prairie View | 1995-96 | 4-23 | Elwood Plummer | Tulsa | 141-50 | 91 |
| Princeton | 1908-09 | 8-13 | Harry Shorter | Penn | 55-10 | 45 |
| Providence | 1954-55 | 9-12 | Vin Cuddy | Holy Cross | 101-47 | 54 |
| Purdue | 1947-48 | 11-9 | Mel Taube | Illinois | 98-54 | 44 |
| Rhode Island | 1916-17 | 2-6 | Jim Baldwin | Amherst MA | 65-5 | 60 |
| Rice | 1971-72 | 6-20 | Don Knodel | North Carolina | 127-69 | 58 |
| Rider | 1989-90 | 10-18 | Kevin Bannon | Minnesota | 116-48 | 68 |
| Robert Morris | 1996-97 | 4-23 | Jim Boone | Arizona | 118-54 | 64 |
| Rutgers | 1906-07 | 0-3 | Frank Gorton | Lehigh | 88-23 | 65 |
| St. Francis (N.Y.) | 1993-94 | 1-26 | Ron Ganulin | Providence | 108-48 | 60 |
| St. John's | 1951-52 | 25-6 | Frank McGuire | Kentucky | 81-40 | 41 |
| St. John's | 2015-16 | 8-24 | Chris Mullin | Creighton | 100-59 | 41 |
| St. John's | 2016-17 | 14-19 | Chris Mullin | Villanova | 108-67 | 41 |
| Saint Joseph's | 2014-15 | 13-18 | Phil Martelli | Gonzaga | 94-42 | 52 |
| Saint Louis | 1945-46 | 13-11 | John Flanigan | Oklahoma A&M | 86-33 | 53 |
| Saint Mary's | 2000-01 | 2-27 | Dave Bollwinkel | Arizona | 101-41 | 60 |
| Saint Peter's | 1941-42 | 5-11 | Morgan Sweetman | St. Francis (N.Y.) | 85-29 | 56 |
| Sam Houston State | 1991-92 | 2-25 | Jerry Hopkins | Lamar | 126-57 | 69 |
| Samford | 1957-58 | 7-17 | Virgil Ledbetter | Alabama | 105-44 | 61 |
| San Diego State | 1998-99 | 4-22 | Fred Trenkle | Utah | 86-38 | 48 |
| San Jose State | 1970-71 | 2-24 | Danny Glines | New Mexico State | 114-55 | 59 |
| Santa Clara | 2001-02 | 13-15 | Dick Davey | Ohio State | 88-41 | 47 |
| Seton Hall | 1957-58 | 7-19 | John "Honey" Russell | Cincinnati | 118-54 | 64 |
| Siena | 1987-88 | 23-6 | Mike Deane | Syracuse | 123-72 | 51 |
| South Alabama | 1994-95 | 9-18 | Ronnie Arrow | Southern Utah | 140-72 | 68 |
| South Carolina | 1929-30 | 6-10 | A.W. "Rock" Norman | Furman | 70-11 | 59 |
| South Florida | 1987-88 | 6-22 | Bobby Paschal | Syracuse | 111-65 | 46 |
| Southeastern Louisiana | 1998-99 | 6-20 | John Lyles | Auburn | 114-60 | 54 |
| Southern California | 1913-14 | 5-7 | unavailable | L.A. Athletic Club | 77-14 | 63 |
| Southern Illinois | 2016-17 | 17-16 | Barry Hinson | Wichita State | 87-45 | 42 |
| Southern Methodist | 1980-81 | 7-20 | Dave Bliss | Arkansas | 92-50 | 42 |
| Southern Mississippi | 2001-02 | 10-17 | James Green | Cincinnati | 89-37 | 52 |
| Southern Utah | 1988-89 | 10-18 | Neil Roberts | Oklahoma | 132-64 | 68 |
| Stanford | 1975-76 | 11-16 | Dick DiBiaso | UCLA | 120-74 | 46 |
| Stetson | 2018-19 | TBD | Corey Williams | Duke | 113-49 | 64 |
| Syracuse | 1961-62 | 8-13 | Fred Lewis | NYU | 122-59 | 63 |
| Temple | 1946-47 | 8-12 | Josh Cody | Kentucky | 68-29 | 39 |
| Tennessee | 1992-93 | 13-17 | Wade Houston | Kentucky | 101-40 | 61 |
| Tennessee-Martin | 1994-95 | 7-20 | Cal Luther | Kentucky | 124-50 | 74 |
| Tennessee Tech | 1962-63 | 16-8 | John Oldham | Loyola of Chicago | 111-42 | 69 |
| Texas | 1971-72 | 19-9 | Leon Black | UCLA | 115-65 | 50 |
| Texas A&M | 1971-72 | 16-10 | Shelby Metcalf | UCLA | 117-53 | 64 |
| Texas-Arlington | 1993-94 | 7-22 | Eddie McCarter | Iowa State | 119-55 | 64 |
| Texas Christian | 1977-78 | 4-22 | Tim Somerville | Clemson | 125-62 | 63 |
| Texas-El Paso | 2000-01 | 23-9 | Jason Rabedeaux | Fresno State | 108-56 | 52 |
| Texas-San Antonio | 2015-16 | 5-27 | Brooks Thompson | Texas | 116-50 | 66 |
| Texas Southern | 1993-94 | 19-11 | Robert Moreland | Arkansas | 129-63 | 66 |
| Texas State | 1918-19 | TBD | unavailable | Texas | 89-6 | 83 |
| Texas Tech | 2007-08 | 16-15 | Pat Knight | Kansas | 109-51 | 58 |
| Toledo | 1932-33 | 3-13 | Dave Connelly | Ohio State | 64-10 | 54 |
| Tulane | 2000-01 | 9-21 | Shawn Finney | Cincinnati | 105-57 | 48 |
| Tulsa | 1947-48 | 7-16 | John Garrison | Kentucky | 72-18 | 54 |
| UAB | 1990-91 | 18-13 | Gene Bartow | UNLV | 109-68 | 41 |
| UCF | 1988-89 | 7-20 | Phil Carter | Florida State | 133-79 | 54 |
| UCLA | 1996-97 | 24-8 | Steve Lavin | Stanford | 109-61 | 48 |
| UNLV | 1970-71 | 16-10 | John Bayer | Houston | 130-73 | 57 |
| U.S. International | 1989-90 | 12-16 | Gary Zarecky | Oklahoma | 173-101 | 72 |
| Utah | 2011-12 | 6-25 | Larry Krystkowiak | Oregon | 94-48 | 46 |
| Utah State | 1909-10 | 3-7 | Clayton Teetzel | Utah | 69-15 | 54 |
| Utah State | 1925-26 | 13-5 | Lowell Romney | Southern California | 82-28 | 54 |
| Valparaiso | 1967-68 | 11-15 | Gene Bartow | Houston | 158-81 | 77 |
| Vanderbilt | 1946-47 | 7-8 | Norm Cooper | Kentucky | 98-29 | 69 |
| Villanova | 1921-22 | 11-4 | Michael Saxe | Army | 58-11 | 47 |
| Virginia | 1964-65 | 7-18 | Bill Gibson | Duke | 136-72 | 64 |
| Virginia Commonwealth | 1976-77 | 13-13 | Dana Kirk | Auburn | 109-59 | 50 |
| Virginia Tech | 1952-53 | 4-19 | Gerald "Red" Laird | Marshall | 113-57 | 56 |
| Wagner | 1998-99 | 9-18 | Tim Capstraw | Connecticut | 111-46 | 65 |
| Wake Forest | 1913-14 | 10-7 | J.R. Crozier | Virginia | 80-16 | 64 |
| Washington | 1988-89 | 12-16 | Andy Russo | Arizona | 116-61 | 55 |
| Washington State | 1964-65 | 9-17 | Marv Harshman | UCLA | 93-41 | 52 |
| Washington State | 2004-05 | 12-16 | Dick Bennett | Oklahoma State | 81-29 | 52 |
| Weber State | 1988-89 | 17-11 | Denny Huston | Akron | 92-50 | 42 |
| West Virginia | 1978-79 | 16-12 | Gale Catlett | Louisville | 106-60 | 46 |
| Western Carolina | 1998-99 | 8-21 | Phil Hopkins | Maryland | 113-46 | 67 |
| Western Kentucky | 1990-91 | 14-14 | Ralph Willard | Georgia | 124-65 | 59 |
| Western Michigan | 1988-89 | 12-16 | Vern Payne | Michigan | 107-60 | 47 |
| Wichita State | 1912-13 | 1-11 | E.V. Long | Ottawa KS | 80-8 | 72 |
| William & Mary | 1918-19 | 3-6 | V.M. Geddy | Roanoke VA | 87-6 | 81 |
| Wisconsin | 1975-76 | 10-16 | John Powless | Indiana | 114-61 | 53 |
| Wisconsin | 1985-86 | 12-16 | Steve Yoder | Iowa | 101-48 | 53 |
| Wright State | 1976-77 | 11-16 | Marcus Jackson | Cincinnati | 120-52 | 68 |
| Wyoming | 1910-11 | 1-4 | Harold Dean | Colorado | 65-12 | 53 |
| Xavier | 1966-67 | 13-13 | Don Ruberg | Kansas | 100-52 | 48 |
| Yale | 1976-77 | 6-20 | Ray Carazo | Clemson | 104-50 | 54 |
| Youngstown State | 1941-42 | 9-12 | Dom Rosselli | Toledo | 88-32 | 56 |
Holiday Wish List: College Hoopdom's Christmas Gifts and Stocking Stuffers
It's the most wonderful time of the year despite lunacy in some quarters claiming government shutdown represents Armageddon and making inane comparisons of illegal aliens to Jesus. Yes, holiday festivities can go awry between Christmas and New Year's Eve. In ghosts of Christmas' past, just ask top-ranked Virginia, which lost at tiny Chaminade in 1982, and NCAA champion-to-be Michigan, which bowed to Alaska-Anchorage on a neutral court in 1988.
Amid the bone-chilling cold celebrations as liberals want us to cower in corner because of global warming while freezing our butts off, a Christmas holiday week absolutely can not go by without the time-honored tradition of making a list and checking it twice. For instance, many observers are thankful national health-care costs for eye and ear care are dramatically decreased from looking at and listening to Melania and Ivanka rather than #ShrillaryRotten and Chelsea until #NannyPathetic regains the House gavel. The college basketball wish list, a stocking stuffer distinguishing between the naughty and nice, doesn't change much from the previous month at Thanksgiving or next week among New Year Resolutions. Opting out from responding to apology demands, some of them may fall in the Christmas Miracle category but following is a healthy serving of food-for-thought wishes presented to college hoop observers:
Wish peace and comfort to family and friends of striking number of former All-American players and prominent coaches who passed away this year.
Wish deserving mid-major players earn All-American acclaim this season.
Wish ex-college hoopers continued success as prominent NFL tight ends.
Wish fans understand how good the Big East Conference first division is after league upheaval several years ago.
Wish special seasons for standout seniors because they didn't abandon college hoops early and give the sport at least some modicum of veteran leadership.
Wish the best for the Ivy League and Patriot League, which seem like the last bastions replete with textbook student-athletes. Five Ivy League institutions - Brown, Cornell, Dartmouth, Harvard and Yale - can still hold their heads high despite each of them posting all-time losing records.
Wish proper acclaim for pristine playmakers who show again and again that "pass" is not a dirty four-letter word amid the obsession with individualistic one-on-one moves by self-absorbed one-and-done scholars.
Wish many highlights for entertaining little big men (players 5-10 or shorter) who inspire us with their self-confidence and mental toughness in the Land of the Giants.
Wish junior college players and foreigners could overcome perceptions in some misguided quarters that they are the rogues of recruiting.
Wish patience for the numerous promising first-year coaches assuming control of programs this season. They need to remember the fortitude exhibited by many of the biggest names in coaching who rebounded from embarrassing defeats in their first season as a head coach. An active luminary who lost multiple games to non-Division I colleges in his initial campaign before ascending to stardom as the all-time winningest coach is Duke's Mike Krzyzewski (lost to SUNY-Buffalo, Scranton and King's College in 1975-76 while coaching Army).
Wish Division I schools will soon find their bearings amid the chaotic restructuring of conferences forsaking tradition although the quest for mega-leagues could be delusional because they're vying for television revenue that might not exist.
Wish more accuracy for recruiting services incapable of discerning multiple recent national player of the year honorees should have been ranked higher. Ditto to announcers who infect the sport by spreading this virus without ever seeing any of the players enough to properly evaluate them.
Wish marquee coaches wouldn't serve up assistants as sacrificial lambs resembling Grinch when the heat of an investigation of their program intensifies. This practice really got out of hand when the FBI was involved.
Wish prominent programs would reduce, if not eliminate, academic exceptions. Of course, the quality of play will diminish by emphasizing textbook student-athletes but it's not as if half of the non-league games on TV aren't mismatches, anyway.
Wish wisdom for anyone who incessantly castigates the majority of undergraduates declaring early for the NBA draft. Before accepting the party line that many of the players are making monumental mistakes by forgoing their remaining college eligibility, remember that more than half of the NBA's All-Pro selections in the last quarter century or so left college early or never attended a university.
Wish a heart for any school not promptly granting a recruit seeking to enroll elsewhere a release from its letter-of-intent when he wants to attend another institution for legitimate reasons.
Wish jaws wired shut for "Me Generation" showmen and "trippers" who've failed to comprehend their respective teams don't benefit on the court from a trash-talking Harlem Globetrotter routine.
Wish self-absorbed players will finally see the light and spend less time getting tattoos and practicing macho dunks and more on team beneficial free throws. It all hinges on dedication. There is a reason they're supposed to be "free" throws instead of Shaq-like "foul" shots.
Wish high-profile coaches would show more allegiance rather than taking off for greener pastures despite having multiple years remaining on their contract. Also wish said pacts didn't include bonus for graduation ratio or GPA insofar as many coaches become Sgt. "I Know Nothing" Schultz whenever academic anemia issues surface.
Wish network analysts would refrain from serving as apologists for the coaching community. When their familiar spiels echo throughout hoopdom, they become nothing more than the big mouths that bore.
Wish marquee schools will vow to stop forsaking entertaining non-conference games with natural rivals while scheduling a half-dozen or more meaningless "rout-a-matics" at home. Aren't two or three gimmes enough?
Wish a generous dose of ethics to defrauding coaches who manipulate junior colleges and high schools into giving phony grades. Ditto coaches who steer prize high school prospects to third parties toying with standardized test results.
Wish authenticity for those "fatherly-advice" coaches who don't mandate that any player with pro potential take multiple financial literacy courses. Did they notice in recent years that products from Alabama, Georgia Tech, Georgetown, Kentucky and Syracuse filed for bankruptcy after combining for more than half a billion dollars in salaries over their NBA careers? What kind of classes are taken in college anyway if a staggering 60% of NBA players file for bankruptcy five years after retirement? There's personal responsibility, but shouldn't the universities they attended feel some sort of culpability? And don't you wish most agents would become extinct if such a high percentage of pros end up with holes in their pockets?
Wish overzealous fans will stop flogging freshmen for not living up to their high school press clippings right away. The impatient onlookers need to get a grip on themselves.
Wish many of the excessive number of small schools with visions of sugar plums dancing in their heads, thinking they can compete at the Division I level, would return to DII or DIII. There are far too many examples of dreamy-eyed small schools that believe competing with the big boys will get them national recognition, make big bucks from the NCAA Tournament and put the institutions on the map. They don't know how unrealistic that goal is until most of the hyphenated and directional schools barnstorm the country during their non-conference schedules in college basketball versions of Bataan Death Marches.
Wish lapdog-lazy media outworked by Louisville Escort Queen and Duke student newspaper would display more energy exhibiting enterprising analysis. Why do almost all of the principal college basketball websites "progressively" look and read virtually the same? It's a byproduct of predictably pathetic press needing a jolt of adversarial reporting.
Wish coaches would "shut up and sing" rather than weigh in with opinions on restroom access, let alone POTUS pap criticism offered principally to appease their player pipeline of 90%-plus leftists.
Wish ESPN, failing to acknowledge significant reduction in subscribers stems from #KneelWithJemele liberalism being a mental disorder, would cease becoming BSPN by giving politically-correct forums to insufferable leftist lunatics such as Howard Bryant and "experts" who either lie to NCAA investigators as a coach, drop their pants for locker-room motivation, get fired for intoxication, participate as agent in funneling funds to regal recruit, can't quite figure out Dell Curry's sons could also be All-Americans and practice reprehensible race-baiting with the intellectually-bankrupt "Uncle Tom" bomb. If not, Extra Sensitive Pious Network will need another new Skipper for sinking ship.
Chaminade Shocked #1-Ranked Virginia on Second Day Before Christmas
Two days before Christmas is the anniversary of a "David vs. Goliath" game hailed as one of the biggest upsets in college basketball history when national player of the year Ralph Sampson and Virginia got coal in their stocking by losing at Chaminade, 77-72, in Hawaii in 1982-83. The contest triggered one of the greatest achievements in small-college history as Chaminade went on to defeat an NCAA Division I school winning at least one NCAA playoff game in three consecutive campaigns. Following is a chronological list of victories by small schools over major universities going on to win at least one NCAA playoff game that season:
Small College NCAA Playoff Team (Record) Score Georgetown College (KY) Louisville (19-12 in 1958-59) 84-78 St. Mary's (TX) Houston (25-5 in 1969-70) 76-66 Chaminade (Hawaii) Virginia (29-5 in 1982-83) 77-72 Chaminade (Hawaii) Louisville (24-11 in 1983-84) 83-72 Chaminade (Hawaii) Southern Methodist (23-10 in 1984-85) 71-70 Alaska-Anchorage Michigan (30-7 in 1988-89) 70-66 UC Riverside Iowa (23-10 in 1988-89) 110-92 Alaska-Anchorage Wake Forest (21-12 in 1993-94) 70-68 American-Puerto Rico Arkansas (24-9 in 1997-98) 64-59 Bethel (IN) Valparaiso (23-10 in 1997-98) 85-75 Elizabeth City State (NC) Norfolk State (26-10 in 2011-12) 69-57
NOTES: Michigan '89 became NCAA champion and Louisville '59 reached the Final Four. . . . UC Riverside subsequently moved up to the NCAA Division I level in 2000-01.
Oakland, which nearly upset #1 Michigan State prior to Christmas three years ago, almost joined Chaminade and Northern Iowa among the following list of seven nationally unranked non-DI or mid-major schools in the last 50 years upsetting the nation's top-ranked team from a power conference then or now (DePaul only university in this #1 category losing at home to mid-major):
| Season | Date | Power-League Member Ranked No. 1 | Score | Upsetting Non-Power League Team | Unranked Opponent's Coach |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1980-81 | 1-10-81 | DePaul | 63-62 | Old Dominion | Paul Webb |
| 1982-83 | 12-24-82 | Virginia | 77-72 | at Chaminade (Hawaii) | Merv Lopes |
| 1987-88 | 1-2-88 | Arizona | 61-59 | at New Mexico | Gary Colson |
| 1995-96 | 12-22-95 | Kansas | 74-66 | Temple in OT at East Rutherford, NJ | John Chaney |
| 2011-12 | 11-26-11 | North Carolina | 90-80 | at UNLV | Dave Rice |
| 2012-13 | 12-15-12 | Indiana | 88-86 | Butler in OT at Indianapolis | Brad Stevens |
| 2015-16 | 11-21-15 | North Carolina | 71-67 | at Northern Iowa | Ben Jacobson |
Virginia's Terry Holland was among many of the biggest names in college coaching history recovering from embarrassing defeats certainly not cited on their otherwise mostly-regal resumes. For instance, there are numerous mentors who captured NCAA championships despite losing to a small school at some point during their careers - Phog Allen (lost to Emporia State), Jim Calhoun (American International, Assumption, Brandeis, Bridgeport, Florida Southern, Merrimack, St. Anselm, Stonehill and Tufts), John Calipari (Florida Tech and Lowell), Denny Crum (Chaminade), Jim Harrick (Abilene Christian), Don Haskins (Louisiana College), Hank Iba (Abilene Christian and Westminster), George Ireland (Regis), Doggie Julian (Amherst, Colby, St. Anselm, St. Michael's, Springfield, Tampa and Williams), Mike Krzyzewski (King's, Scranton and SUNY-Buffalo), Rollie Massimino (New Orleans and Philadelphia Textile), Al McGuire (Evansville and Washington MO), Rick Pitino (Adelphi), Nolan Richardson Jr. (American-Puerto Rico), Norman Sloan (Presbyterian), John Thompson Jr. (Assumption, Gannon, Randolph-Macon and Roanoke) and Jim Valvano (Armstrong State, Bloomsburg, Gannon, Tampa and Wilkes).
Kansas' Bill Self lost 18 consecutive contests bridging the 1993-94 and 1994-95 seasons with Oral Roberts but at least he didn't lose a decision to a non-Division I institution. The following alphabetical list "retraces steps" of prominent coaches who lost games to non-Division I colleges during their major-college careers:
- Forrest "Phog" Allen - Lost to Emporia State (Kan.) in 1947-48 while coaching Kansas.
- Forrest "Forddy" Anderson - Lost to Emporia State (Kan.) in 1947-48 while coaching Drake. Lost to Northern Michigan in 1960-61 while coaching Michigan State.
- John Bach - Lost to Adelphi (N.Y.) in 1958-59 while coaching Fordham.
- Kevin Bannon - Lost to Grand Canyon (Ariz.) at Hawaii in 1991-92 while coaching Rider.
- Rick Barnes - Lost at Chaminade (Hawaii) in 1991-92 while coaching Providence and in 2012-13 while coaching Texas.
- J.D. Barnett - Lost to Louisiana Christian in 1995-96 while coaching Northwestern State (La.).
- Jim Baron - Lost to Walsh (Ohio) in 1992-93 while coaching St. Bonaventure. Lost to Lubbock Christian (Tex.) at Las Vegas in 2003-04 while coaching Rhode Island. Lost to Metro State (Colo.) in 2013-14 while coaching Canisius.
- Gene Bartow - Lost at American-Puerto Rico in 1994-95 while coaching UAB.
- Dick Bennett - Lost to Wisconsin-Eau Claire in 1985-86 and 1986-87 while coaching Wisconsin-Green Bay.
- Eddie Biedenbach - Lost to Montreat (N.C.) in 2001-02 and Lenoir-Rhyne (N.C.) in 2005-06 while coaching UNC Asheville.
- Tom Blackburn - Lost to Anderson (Ind.) in 1947-48, Ohio Wesleyan in 1948-49, Muskingum (Ohio) in 1949-50 and Wittenberg (Ohio) in 1962-63 while coaching Dayton.
- Bill Blair - Lost to Morris Harvey (W. Va.) and twice to Roanoke (Va.) in 1972-73 and to West Virginia Tech and Shepherd (W. Va.) in 1973-74 while coaching VMI.
- George Blaney - Lost to Springfield (Mass.) in 1969-70 and 1971-72 while coaching Dartmouth. Lost to Assumption (Mass.) in 1973-74 and 1985-86 and at Florida Southern in 1979-80 while coaching Holy Cross.
- Dave Bliss - Lost to Rollins (Fla.) and Texas Wesleyan in 1980-81 and at Chaminade (Hawaii) in 1984-85 while coaching SMU. Lost to Eastern New Mexico in 1991-92 while coaching New Mexico.
- Bob Boyd - Lost to Tennessee-Martin in 1981-82 and Delta State (Miss.) in 1985-86 while coaching Mississippi State.
- Jim Brandenburg - Lost to South Dakota in 1979-80 while coaching Wyoming.
- Byron "Buster" Brannon - Lost to Sam Houston State (Tex.) twice in 1938-39 and once in 1940-41 while coaching Rice. Lost to East Texas State, at Hamline (Minn.) and twice to Austin (Tex.) College in 1948-49, Midwestern State (Tex.) in 1953-54 and Kentucky Wesleyan in 1955-56 while coaching Texas Christian.
- Tom Brennan - Lost to Florida Southern in 1982-83, Clark (Mass.) in 1985-86 and Trinity (Conn.) in 1985-86 while coaching Yale. Lost to St. Michael's (Vt.) in 1986-87, 1987-88 and 1988-89 while coaching Vermont.
- John Bunn - Lost to Eastern New Mexico (six times from 1957-58 through 1962-63), Fort Hays (Kan.) State (five times from 1957-58 through 1962-63), New Mexico Highlands in 1960-61, twice to Panhandle State (Okla.) in 1957-58, St. Cloud State (Minn.) in 1962-63, Southwestern Oklahoma State in 1956-57, Wayne State (Neb.) in 1962-63 and Western New Mexico in 1961-62 while coaching Northern Colorado.
- Jim Calhoun - Lost to Assumption (Mass.) in 1972-73; to Tufts (Mass.), American International (Mass.), Bridgeport (Conn.) and at Assumption (Mass.) in 1973-74; Assumption (Mass.) and Brandeis (Mass.) in 1974-75; Merrimack (Mass.) in 1975-76; Bridgeport (Conn.), Merrimack (Mass.), St. Anselm (Vt.) and Stonehill (Mass.) in 1976-77; American International (Mass.) and Assumption (Mass.) in 1978-79 and Florida Southern in 1980-81 while coaching Northeastern.
- John Calipari - Lost at Florida Tech in 1988-89 and to Lowell (Mass.) in 1989-90 while coaching Massachusetts.
- Lou Campanelli - Lost to West Virginia Tech in 1980-81 while coaching James Madison. Lost to Alaska-Anchorage in 1990-91 on neutral court while coaching California.
- Howard Cann - Lost to Panzer in 1938-39 and Brandeis (Mass.) in 1956-57 while coaching NYU.
- P.J. Carlesimo - Lost at Bentley (Mass.), to Southern Connecticut on a neutral court, to C.W. Post (N.Y.), at Springfield (Mass.) and at Bridgeport (Conn.) in 1976-77; to New Haven (Conn.) and at C.W. Post (N.Y.) in 1977-78, and at Staten Island (N.Y.) and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (N.Y.) in 1981-82 while coaching Wagner.
- Henry "Doc" Carlson - Lost to Bethany (W. Va.) in 1948-49, Geneva (Pa.) in 1941-42, 1950-51 and 1952-53 and Carnegie Tech (Pa.) three times in four seasons from 1938-39 through 1941-42 plus five times in six seasons from 1949-50 through 1954-55 while coaching Pittsburgh.
- Pete Carril - Lost to East Stroudsburg (Pa.) in 1966-67 while coaching Lehigh.
- Don Casey - Lost to Philadelphia Textile in 1975-76 while coaching Temple.
- Joe Cipriano - Lost at Hawaii-Hilo in 1976-77 while coaching Nebraska.
- Gary Colson - Lost to John Brown (Ark.) in 1972-73 and Moorhead (Minn.) State in 1973-74 while coaching Pepperdine. Lost to Alaska-Anchorage in 1983-84 while coaching New Mexico.
- Bobby Cremins - Lost to Lenoir-Rhyne (N.C.) in 1975-76 and twice in 1977-78 while coaching Appalachian State.
- Denny Crum - Lost at Chaminade (Hawaii) in 1983-84 and 1984-85 while coaching Louisville.
- Charles "Chick" Davies - Lost to Waynesburg (Pa.) in 1937-38 and 1938-39 and to Wooster (Ohio) in 1937-38 while coaching Duquesne.
- Tom Davis - Lost to Moravian (Pa.) in 1973-74 and at Albright (Pa.) in 1975-76 while coaching Lafayette. Lost to Chico State (Calif.) in 1982-83 while coaching Stanford. Lost to UC Riverside in 1988-89 while coaching Iowa.
- Johnny Dee - Lost to Jacksonville (Ala.) State in 1952-53 while coaching Alabama.
- Don DeVoe - Lost to Johns Hopkins (Md.) in 2002-03 while coaching Navy.
- Ed Diddle - Lost to Kentucky Wesleyan in 1955-56, David Lipscomb (Tenn.) in 1962-63 and LeMoyne (N.Y.) in 1963-64 while coaching Western Kentucky.
- Bob Donewald - Lost to Cal State Bakersfield in 1980-81 while coaching Illinois State.
- Homer Drew - Lost to Bethel (Ind.) in 1997-98 while coaching Valparaiso.
- Charles "Lefty" Driesell - Lost to Catawba (N.C.) twice in 1960-61 and to Carson-Newman (Tenn.) and Erskine (S.C.) in 1961-62 while coaching Davidson.
- Hugh Durham - Lost at Puerto Rico-Mayaguez in 2001-02 while coaching Jacksonville.
- Bobby Dye - Lost at Chapman (Calif.) in 1975-76 while coaching Cal State Fullerton. Lost to Lewis-Clark State (Idaho) in 1985-86 while coaching Boise State.
- Norm Ellenberger - Lost at Hawaii-Hilo in 1976-77 while coaching New Mexico.
- Fred Enke - Lost to Regis (Colo.) in 1959-60 while coaching Arizona.
- Larry Eustachy - Lost at Alaska-Anchorage in 1991-92 and to Elizabeth City State (N.C.) in 1992-93 while coaching Idaho.
- Paul Evans - Lost at Rollins (Fla.) in 1981-82 while coaching Navy.
- Bill C. Foster - Lost at University of the South (Tenn.) and Roanoke (Va.) in 1970-71 and to Valdosta (Ga.) State in 1971-72 while coaching UNC Charlotte. Lost at Alaska-Anchorage in 1987-88 while coaching Miami (Fla.).
- Bill E. Foster - Lost at Albright (Pa.) in 1964-65 while coaching Rutgers. Lost at Chaminade (Hawaii) in 1981-82 while coaching South Carolina. Lost to Rollins (Fla.) in 1986-87 and 1987-88 while coaching Northwestern.
- Harold "Bud" Foster - Lost to South Dakota in 1956-57 while coaching Wisconsin.
- Bill Frieder - Lost to Alaska-Anchorage on a neutral court in 1988-89 while coaching Michigan.
- Jack Friel - Lost at Centenary (La.) and to Spring Hill (Ala.) in 1955-56 and Whitworth (Wash.) five times from 1951-52 through 1956-57 while coaching Washington State.
- John "Taps" Gallagher - Lost to Wayne State (Mich.) in 1951-52 and Gannon (Pa.) and Rochester (N.Y.) in 1964-65 while coaching Niagara.
- Dave Gavitt - Lost at Springfield (Mass.) in 1967-68 while coaching Dartmouth.
- Boyd Grant - Lost to Wisconsin-Parkside in 1978-79 while coaching Fresno State.
- Murray Greason - Lost to Rio Grande (Ohio) in 1953-54 while coaching Wake Forest.
- Ron Greene - Lost to Spring Hill (Ala.) in 1966-67 while coaching Loyola of New Orleans. Lost to Tennessee Wesleyan and Mississippi College in 1978-79, Arkansas College in 1981-82, West Virginia Tech in 1982-83 and Lincoln Memorial (Tenn.) in 1984-85 while coaching Murray State. Lost to Rollins (Fla.) in 1986-87 while coaching Indiana State.
- Tim Grgurich - Lost to Morris Harvey (W. Va.) in 1977-78 while coaching Pittsburgh.
- Frank Haith - Lost to Southeastern Oklahoma State in 2014-15 while coaching Tulsa.
- Leonard Hamilton - Lost at BYU-Hawaii in 1987-88 while coaching Oklahoma State.
- Jim Harrick - Lost at Abilene (Tex.) Christian in 1984-85 while coaching Pepperdine.
- Dick Harter - Lost at Alaska-Anchorage in 1978-79 while coaching Penn State.
- Jack Hartman - Lost to Kentucky Wesleyan four times in three years from 1967-68 through 1969-70 while coaching Southern Illinois.
- Don Haskins - Lost to Louisiana College in 1977-78 while coaching Texas-El Paso.
- George "Jud" Heathcote - Lost at Puget Sound (Wash.) in 1972-73, 1973-74 and 1975-76 and at Southern Colorado in 1972-73 while coaching Montana.
- Bill Henderson - Lost to Howard Payne (Tex.) in 1955-56 while coaching Baylor.
- Lou Henson - Lost to Howard Payne (Tex.) twice, Midwestern State (Tex.), Eastern New Mexico and Abilene Christian (Tex.) in 1962-63; Abilene Christian and Midwestern State in 1964-65, and Pittsburg State (Kan.) in 1965-66 while coaching Hardin-Simmons. Lost at Eastern New Mexico in 1966-67, to Angelo State (Tex.) in 1971-72, at Alaska-Fairbanks in 1998-99 and at BYU-Hawaii in 2001-02 while coaching New Mexico State.
- Eddie Hickey - Lost to South Dakota in 1938-39 and 1939-40 while coaching Creighton.
- Bernard "Peck" Hickman - Lost to Georgetown College (Ky.) in 1958-59 while coaching Louisville.
- Paul "Tony" Hinkle - Lost to Wabash (Ind.) in 1959-60, twice in 1960-61 and in 1966-67 while coaching Butler.
- Terry Holland - Lost at Chaminade (Hawaii) in 1982-83 while coaching Virginia.
- Ben Howland - Lost to Concordia (Calif.) in 1994-95 while coaching Northern Arizona.
- Henry "Hank" Iba - Lost to Westminster (Mo.) in 1934-35 and 1936-37 and Abilene (Tex.) Christian in 1965-66 while coaching Oklahoma A&M/Oklahoma State.
- Moe Iba - Lost to Union (Tenn.) in 1968-69 and 1969-70 while coaching Memphis State.
- George Ireland - Lost to Regis (Colo.) in 1954-55, North Dakota State in 1966-67, Illinois Wesleyan in 1970-71 and Missouri Western in 1972-73 while coaching Loyola of Chicago.
- Maurice "Maury" John - Lost to South Dakota State in 1958-59 and Washington (Mo.) in 1963-64 while coaching Drake.
- Alvin "Doggie" Julian - Lost to St. Michael's (Vt.), at St. Anselm (N.H.) and at Tampa (Fla.) in 1950-51; to Amherst (Mass.) in 1952-53; at St. Michael's (Vt.), to Williams (Mass.) and at Springfield (Mass.) in 1960-61; to Colby (Maine) in 1961-62, and to Williams (Mass.) in 1964-65 while coaching Dartmouth.
- Jim Killingsworth - Lost to Westmont (Calif.) in 1980-81 while coaching Texas Christian.
- Bob King - Lost at Washington (Mo.) in 1963-64 while coaching New Mexico.
- Dana Kirk - Lost to Wisconsin-Parkside in 1979-80 while coaching Memphis State.
- Jack Kraft - Lost to Assumption (Mass.) in 1974-75 while coaching Rhode Island.
- Mike Krzyzewski - Lost to SUNY-Buffalo, Scranton (Pa.) and King's College (Pa.) in 1975-76 while coaching Army.
- Steve Lappas - Lost to Springfield (Mass.) in 1988-89 while coaching Manhattan.
- Jim Larranaga - Lost to Findlay (Ohio) in 1991-92 while coaching Bowling Green.
- Frank Layden - Lost to Thomas More (Ky.) in 1970-71 while coaching Niagara.
- Jack Leaman - Lost to American International (Mass.) in 1966-67 and 1969-70, Springfield (Mass.) in 1970-71 and Bentley (Mass.) in 1978-79 while coaching Massachusetts.
- A.E. "Abe" Lemons - Lost to Centenary (La.) in 1958-59, McMurry (Tex.) in 1960-61 and Wayland Baptist (Tex.) in 1984-85 while coaching Oklahoma City. Lost to Texas A&I in 1973-74 while coaching Pan American.
- Jim Les - Lost to Lubbock (Tex.) Christian at Las Vegas in 2003-04 while coaching Bradley.
- Guy Lewis - Lost to St. Mary's (Tex.) in 1969-70 and 1974-75, Texas A&I in 1979-80 and Alaska-Anchorage and Biscayne (Fla.) in 1980-81 while coaching Houston.
- Harry Litwack - Lost to West Chester (Pa.) in 1969-70 while coaching Temple.
- Taylor "Tates" Locke - Lost to North Park (Ill.) in 1978-79 while coaching Jacksonville.
- Ken Loeffler - Lost to Centenary (La.) in 1956-57 while coaching Texas A&M.
- Jim Lynam - Lost to Saint Leo (Fla.) and at Assumption (Mass.) in 1968-69 and to Southern Connecticut in 1969-70 while coaching Fairfield. Lost at King's (Pa.) in 1975-76 while coaching American University. Lost at Rollins (Fla.) in 1979-80 while coaching St. Joseph's.
- Nick Macarchuk - Lost to Buffalo State in 1982-83 while coaching Canisius.
- John MacLeod - Lost to Samford (Ala.) in 1971-72 while coaching Oklahoma. Lost at Alaska-Anchorage in 1998-99 while coaching Notre Dame.
- John "Red" Manning - Lost to Carnegie-Mellon (Pa.) in 1959-60 while coaching Duquesne.
- Rollie Massimino - Lost at New Orleans in 1973-74 and to Philadelphia Textile in 1975-76 and 1976-77 while coaching Villanova.
- James "Babe" McCarthy - Lost to University of the South (Tenn.) in 1955-56 and Mississippi College in 1964-65 while coaching Mississippi State.
- Neil McCarthy - Lost at Alaska-Anchorage in 1978-79 while coaching Weber State. Lost to Western New Mexico in 1986-87 while coaching New Mexico State.
- Al McGuire - Lost at Washington (Mo.) in 1964-65 and Evansville in 1965-66 while coaching Marquette.
- Frank McGuire - Lost at Florida Southern in 1979-80 while coaching South Carolina.
- Jack McKinney - Lost to Catholic (D.C.) in 1966-67 while coaching St. Joseph's.
- Eddie Melvin - Lost to Cortland (N.Y.) State in 1947-48 and Gannon (Pa.) in 1948-49 while coaching St. Bonaventure. Lost to Morris Harvey (W. Va.) in 1956-57 and Wittenberg (Ohio) in 1958-59 and 1959-60 while coaching Toledo.
- Shelby Metcalf - Lost at Eastern Montana in 1980-81 and to St. Mary's (Tex.) in 1984-85 while coaching Texas A&M.
- Ray Meyer - Lost to Beloit (Wis.) in 1950-51, Wayne State (Mich.) in 1955-56, at North Dakota in 1965-66 and to St. Joseph's (Ind.) in 1969-70 while coaching DePaul.
- Eldon Miller - Lost to Winona (Minn.) State and Wisconsin-Platteville in 1986-87 and at American-Puerto Rico and to Morningside (Iowa) in 1990-91 while coaching Northern Iowa.
- Ralph Miller - Lost at Beloit (Wis.) in 1951-52 while coaching Wichita.
- Charles Moir - Lost to Dillard (La.) in 1973-74 and 1974-75 and Xavier (La.) in 1973-74 while coaching Tulane.
- Mike Montgomery - Lost to Puget Sound (Wash.) in 1978-79 and 1980-81 while coaching Montana. Lost at Chaminade (Hawaii) in 1992-93 while coaching Stanford.
- Stan Morrison - Lost to San Francisco State in 1974-75 and at North Dakota in 1978-79 while coaching Pacific.
- Joe Mullaney - Lost to Assumption (Mass.) in 1963-64 and 1984-85 while coaching Providence. Lost to Stonehill (Mass.) in 1979-80 while coaching Brown.
- Jeff Mullins - Lost at Florida Southern in 1987-88 while coaching UNC Charlotte.
- Gerald Myers - Lost at Alaska-Anchorage in 1990-91 while coaching Texas Tech.
- Lynn Nance - Lost to Nebraska-Omaha in 1979-80 while coaching Iowa State.
- Danny Nee - Lost to Charleston (W. Va.) in 1980-81 while coaching Ohio University.
- Jim O'Brien - Lost at Florida Tech in 1988-89 while coaching Boston College.
- Dave Odom - Lost at Alaska-Anchorage in 1993-94 while coaching Wake Forest.
- Johnny Orr - Lost at Washington (Mo.) in 1964-65 while coaching Massachusetts. Lost at Eastern Montana in 1981-82 while coaching Iowa State.
- Bobby Paschal - Lost to Tampa in 1986-87 and 1987-88 while coaching South Florida.
- Tom Penders - Lost at CCNY in 1974-75 and at San Francisco State in 1977-78 while coaching Columbia. Lost at Hawaii-Pacific in 1985-86 while coaching Fordham.
- Jerry Pimm - Lost to Midwestern State (Tex.) in 1979-80 while coaching Utah. Lost to San Francisco State in 1983-84 while coaching UC Santa Barbara.
- Rick Pitino - Lost to Adelphi (N.Y.) in 1978-79 while coaching Boston University.
- Harry Rabenhorst - Lost to Louisiana College in 1955-56 and at Centenary (La.) in 1956-57 while coaching Louisiana State.
- Bill Raftery - Lost to Siena (N.Y.) in 1972-73, at Rollins (Fla.) in 1973-74 and to King's College (Pa.) in 1975-76 while coaching Seton Hall.
- Jack Ramsay - Lost to Albright (Pa.) in 1957-58 and 1961-62 while coaching St. Joseph's.
- George Raveling - Lost to St. Martin's (Wash.) in 1980-81 and Eastern Montana in 1981-82 while coaching Washington State.
- Roger Reid - Lost to Colorado-Colorado Springs in 2007-08 while coaching Southern Utah.
- Nolan Richardson Jr. - Lost at American-Puerto Rico in 1997-98 while coaching Arkansas.
- Alfred "A.J." Robertson - Lost to South Dakota in 1947-48 while coaching Bradley.
- Les Robinson - Lost to Francis Marion (S.C.) in 1983-84 while coaching The Citadel.
- Lee Rose - Lost at Eastern Montana in 1977-78 while coaching UNC Charlotte.
- Lou Rossini - Lost to Scranton (Pa.) in 1975-76 and Bentley (Mass.) in 1978-79 while coaching St. Francis (N.Y.).
- John "Honey" Russell - Lost at Saint Thomas (Minn.) in 1937-38, to David & Elkins (W. Va.) in 1949-50 and to Albright (Pa.) in 1949-50 and 1957-58 while coaching Seton Hall.
- Herb Sendek - Lost at Alaska-Anchorage in 2017-18 while coaching Santa Clara.
- Alex Severance - Lost to Albright (Pa.) in 1941-42, Swarthmore (Pa.) in 1943-44 and 1944-45 and Scranton (Pa.) in 1957-58 while coaching Villanova.
- Norman Sloan - Lost at Presbyterian (S.C.) in 1956-57 while coaching The Citadel.
- Jim Snyder - Lost to Marietta (Ohio) four times in five years from 1949-50 through 1953-54 and in 1959-60, Mount Union (Ohio) in 1949-50, Muskingum (Ohio) in 1950-51, Beloit (Wis.) and Lake Forest (Ill.) in 1951-52, Ohio Wesleyan in 1952-53 and Otterbein (Ohio) in 1966-67 while coaching Ohio University.
- Norm Stewart - Lost at Alaska-Anchorage in 1985-86 while coaching Missouri.
- John Thompson Jr. - Lost to Assumption (Mass.) in 1973-74; Gannon (Pa.) in 1975-76; Randolph-Macon (Va.) in 1974-75; Roanoke (Va.) in 1972-73, and at South Florida in 1972-73 while coaching Georgetown.
- Ken Trickey - Lost to Union (Tenn.) in 1965-66, Transylvania (Ky.) in 1966-67 and 1968-69 and Oglethorpe (Ga.) in 1967-68 while coaching Middle Tennessee State. Lost to Nebraska-Omaha and South Dakota in 1975-76 while coaching Iowa State. Lost to Cameron (Okla.) in 1980-81 while coaching Oral Roberts.
- Billy Tubbs - Lost to Ohio Northern in 1980-81 while coaching Oklahoma. Lost at Alaska-Anchorage in 1995-96 while coaching Texas Christian. Lost to Delta State (Miss.) in 2005-06 while coaching Lamar.
- M.K. Turk - Lost at Florida Southern in 1979-80 and to Fairmont State (W. Va.) in 1984-85 while coaching Southern Mississippi.
- Jim Valvano - Lost to Armstrong State (Ga.) and Gannon (Pa.) in 1972-73, Wilkes (Pa.) in 1973-74 and Bloomsburg (Pa.) in 1974-75 while coaching Bucknell. Lost at Tampa in 1986-87 while coaching North Carolina State.
- Bob Vanatta - Lost at Centenary (La.) in 1956-57 while coaching Memphis State.
- Willem "Butch" van Breda Kolff - Lost at Albright (Pa.) in 1951-52 while coaching Lafayette. Lost at Florida Southern in 1988-89 while coaching Hofstra.
- Perry Watson - Lost to Wayne State (Mich.) in 1993-94 while coaching Detroit.
- Stan Watts - Lost to Hamline (Minn.) in 1951-52 while coaching Brigham Young.
- Clifford Wells - Lost to Spring Hill (Ala.) in 1953-54 and Louisiana College in 1962-63 while coaching Tulane.
- Bob Weltlich - Lost at Alaska-Anchorage in 1986-87 while coaching Texas.
- Paul Westhead - Lost at Biscayne (Fla.) in 1971-72 and Florida Southern in 1978-79 while coaching La Salle.
- Davey Whitney - Lost to Delta State (Miss.) six times in five years from 1985-86 through 1989-90; Dillard (La.) in 1986-87; Miles (Ala.) in 1988-89 and 1990-91; Mississippi College in 1990-91, 1992-93 and 1993-94; Slippery Rock (Pa.) in 1993-94, and Tougaloo (Miss.) in 1996-97 while coaching Alcorn State.
- Ralph Willard - Lost to Williams (Mass.) in 2003-04 while coaching Holy Cross.
- Carroll Williams - Lost to San Francisco State in 1970-71 and at Alaska-Anchorage in 1991-92 while coaching Santa Clara.
- Charlie Woollum - Lost to Rochester (N.Y.) in 1975-76 and 1976-77, Upsala (N.J.) in 1977-78 and Messiah (Pa.) in 1981-82 while coaching Bucknell.
- Jay Wright - Lost at Chaminade (Hawaii) in 2003-04 while coaching Villanova.
- Ned Wulk - Lost to Lawrence Tech (Mich.) and twice to Baldwin-Wallace (Ohio) in 1952-53 while coaching Xavier. Lost to Cal Poly Pomona in 1969-70 while coaching Arizona State.
The Classics: No Better Holiday Gift For Hoops Fans Than Natural Rivalry
"Holy shadows of the dead, I am not to blame for your cruel and bitter fate, but the accursed rivalry which brought sister nations and brother people to fight one another. I do not feel happy for this victory of mine. On the contrary, I would be glad, brothers, if I had all of you standing here next to me, since we are united by the same language, the same blood and the same visions." - Alexander the Great
The best back-to-back non-conference games of two of the previous three seasons may have been when Maryland came from behind to upend Georgetown both times. Where was this rivalry for more than three decades and why aren't they dueling again this campaign? We missed out on Patrick Ewing and David Wingate vs. Adrian Branch in the early 1980s, Reggie Williams vs. Len Bias in mid-1980s, Alonzo Mourning vs. Tony Massenburg and Walt Williams in late 1980s and early 1990s, Allen Iverson vs. Joe Smith in mid-1990s and Mike Sweetney vs. Juan Dixon at the turn of 21st Century. Instead of grand games giving us a shot of adrenalin, we got to overdose on cupcakes with the Hoyas and Terrapins combining to win all 66 of their mismatches against in-state weaklings UMBC, UMES, Morgan State and Towson from the early 1980s through 2003-04. It is time for both schools to commit to opposing each other like they did from 1946-47 to 1979-80. If so, the "Duel in D.C." immediately becomes annual must-see TV in pre-conference competition comparable to "Greatest Shows on Earth" such as Kentucky/Louisville, Illinois/Missouri and Cincinnati/Xavier.
Elsewhere, after 105 years steeped in history amid off-the-chart contempt, the rivalry between Kansas and Missouri expired for the foreseeable future when Mizzou departed the Big 12 Conference for the SEC. KU has a commanding edge in nearly every category (winning percentage, victories away from home and close games decided by single digits), but the Tigers have been enough of a tormentor to make the series as energetic and entertaining as you can find anywhere. Their border war stacked right up there with the more nationally-acclaimed "Clash of the Titans" between Duke and North Carolina.
Making about as much sense as Obamaland's delusional JV Syrian refugee policy treating possible terrorists like they're tourists in aftermath of deadly attacks in Paris and San Bernardino, it was shortsighted of KU and Mizzou to let their rivalry end. They simply join top six conference members DePaul/Illinois, Pittsburgh/West Virginia, Cincinnati/Ohio State and Texas/Texas A&M as potentially great natural non-league match-ups their fans haven't been able to enjoy on a regular basis. DePaul/Illini, Pitt/UWV and UC/OSU confrontations occurred the past two seasons and need to continue.
We nearly required self-absorbed former Secretary of State John Kerry to bring James Taylor for a "You've Got a Friend" sing-along to ease the stress after Utah cancelled its game against BYU for a year before re-engaging. If bruised egos heal in the near future, perhaps sounder minds will prevail with Mizzou annually opposing KU in Kansas City much like it does in St. Louis against Illinois. But Mizzou can't complain if the Jayhawks continue to act like a jilted lover because the self-centered Tigers, hit-and-running away from problem akin to Beto O'Rourke DWI episode, fail to oppose competent in-state foes such as Missouri State and Saint Louis.
By almost any measure including Alexander the Great's perspective, KU has a superior program to Mizzou, which is at its lowest ebb in more than 50 years after mess-maker Frank Haith left the Tigers' program in tatters. But Jayhawks coach Bill Self should rein in his rhetoric as the divorce dialogue intensified or at least take a crash course in college basketball history. When comparing the significance of the Kentucky/Louisville rivalry to the termination of KU's home-and-home conference conflicts with the Tigers, Self said: "Well, they've always played every year (out of league). That's all they know."
Well, Self needs to "always know" that UK and Louisville went 61 years from 1923 through 1983 without a regular-season matchup before they came to their senses and saw the light. Speaking of light, KU and Mizzou simply have to shed one lightweight apiece to keep a good thing going for the sport in general and for their fans specifically like the entertaining Philly Big 5. The two schools combined to raise $1.75 million for hurricane victims by playing an exhibition game in the fall of 2017. Why not surpass that feat via a regular-season confrontation? KU shouldn't also deny hoop fans a Top 20 match-up with Wichita State. But Self-less seems more interested in "scheduling" jobs for family members of prize prospects.
By toning down picking on patsies, there is plenty of room on their respective non-league schedules to keep playing each other. Ditto for Indiana and Kentucky duplicating Memphis and Tennessee resuming their rivalries this year. If consistent, they would definitely be among the top 10 such confrontations in the country. If the century-old KU/Mizzou spectacle returns, it could immediately surpass Kentucky/Louisville and go atop the following list of the nation's top 25 non-conference rivalries if only because of longevity:
- Kentucky/Louisville
- Illinois/Missouri
- Cincinnati/Xavier
- Iowa/Iowa State
- Indiana/Notre Dame
- Brigham Young/Utah
- St. Joseph's/Villanova
- Georgia/Georgia Tech
- Florida/Florida State
- Marquette/Wisconsin
- Clemson/South Carolina
- New Mexico/New Mexico State
- Marshall/West Virginia
- Utah/Utah State
- Temple/Villanova
- La Salle/Villanova
- Florida/Miami (FL)
- Iowa/Northern Iowa
- Colorado/Colorado State
- Drake/Iowa
- Penn/Villanova
- Providence/Rhode Island
- Creighton/Nebraska
- La Salle/Temple
- Idaho/Idaho State
Zigging and Zagging: Gonzaga Among Nine Mid-Majors Entering Tourney #1
A weekly ritual began on January 18, 1949, when the Associated Press announced the results of the first weekly basketball poll. Cliff Clavin might be the only individual who knows that St. Louis was ranked atop the initial poll. The Billikens, who have never been a member of a power league, placed third in the final rankings that season. SLU was the first of eight different mid-major institutions in the first eight seasons of rankings to be atop the national pedestal.
Well, we've traversed from one mid-level school all the way to another (Gonzaga). The Zags, who became the ninth mid-major school entering the NCAA playoffs ranked #1 (2013), has been the only mid-major atop the national poll in the last 10 seasons (achieving feat third time in last seven years this campaign). Despite losing to Tennessee on a neutral court, the Zags have a legitimate shot at being ranked #1 entering the 2019 NCAA playoffs.
The term "mid-major" annoys some loyalists. But following is a chronological list assessing what happened to nationally top-ranked teams that haven't been members of one of the generally-accepted power conferences since AP national rankings were introduced in the late 1940s:
| Season | Date(s) | Mid-Major Ranked #1 | Score | Team(s) Upsetting #1 | Final AP Ranking (Record) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1948-49 | 1-20-49 | St. Louis | 29-27 in OT | at Oklahoma A&M | 3rd (22-4) |
| 1949-50 | 3-4-50 | Holy Cross | 61-54 | at Columbia | 4th (27-4) |
| 1949-50 | 3-28-50 | Bradley | 71-68 | CCNY at New York in NCAA Tournament final | 1st (32-5) |
| 1950-51 | 12-9-50 | CCNY | 54-37 | Missouri | unranked |
| 1950-51 | 1-11-51 | Bradley | 68-59 | at St. John's | 6th (32-6) |
| 1952-53 | 1-17-53 | La Salle | 68-62 | at DePaul | 6th (25-3) |
| 1953-54 | 2-26/27-54 | Duquesne | 66-52 & 64-54 | at Cincinnati and Dayton | 5th (26-3) |
| 1954-55 | 12-18-54 | La Salle | 79-69 | Utah | 3rd (26-5) |
| 1955-56 | San Francisco (29-0) was ranked #1 entire season. | ||||
| 1963-64 | 12-27-63 | Loyola (Ill.) | 69-58 | Georgetown at Philadelphia in Quaker City Tournament | 8th (22-6) |
| 1964-65 | 12-14-64 | Wichita State | 87-85 | Michigan at Detroit | unranked (21-9) |
| 1967-68 | 3-22/23-68 | Houston | 101-69 & 89-85 | UCLA and Ohio State at Final Four in Los Angeles | 1st (31-2) |
| 1978-79 | 3-26-79 | Indiana State | 75-64 | Michigan State at Salt Lake City in NCAA Tournament final | 1st (33-1) |
| 1982-83 | 1-10-83 | Memphis State | 69-56 | at Virginia Tech | 17th (23-8) |
| 1982-83 | 2-24/27-83 | UNLV | 86-78 & 87-78 | at Cal State Fullerton and West Virginia | 6th (28-3) |
| 1982-83 | 4-4-83 | Houston | 54-52 | North Carolina State at Albuquerque in NCAA Tournament final | 1st (31-3) |
| 1986-87 | 1-17-87 | UNLV | 89-88 | at Oklahoma | 1st (37-2) |
| 1986-87 | 3-28-87 | UNLV | 97-93 | Indiana at New Orleans in NCAA Tournament national semifinals | 1st (37-2) |
| 1987-88 | 3-26-88 | Temple | 63-53 | Duke at East Rutherford, NJ, in NCAA Tournament East Regional final | 1st (32-2) |
| 1990-91 | 3-30-91 | UNLV | 79-77 | Duke at Indianapolis in NCAA Tournament national semifinals | 1st (34-1) |
| 1994-95 | 12-3-94 | Massachusetts | 81-75 | Kansas at Anaheim | 7th (29-5) |
| 1994-95 | 2-4-95 | Massachusetts | 78-75 | at George Washington | 7th (29-5) |
| 1995-96 | 2-24-96 | Massachusetts | 86-76 | George Washington | 1st (35-2) |
| 1995-96 | 3-30-96 | Massachusetts | 81-74 | Kentucky at East Rutherford, NJ, in NCAA Tournament national semifinals | 1st (35-2) |
| 2003-04 | 3-11-04 | St. Joseph's | 87-67 | Xavier at Dayton in Atlantic 10 Tournament quarterfinals | 5th (30-2) |
| 2007-08 | 2-23-08 | Memphis | 66-62 | Tennessee | 2nd (38-2) |
| 2012-13 | 3-23-13 | Gonzaga | 76-70 | Wichita State | 1st (32-3) |
| 2016-17 | 2-25-17 | Gonzaga | 79-71 | Brigham Young | 4th (37-2) |
| 2018-19 | 12-9-18 | Gonzaga | 76-73 | Tennessee | TBD |
Bowling Ball: Numerous Versatile Athletes Were Hoopers After FB Bowl Game
There have been a striking number of hoopers over the years contributing to bowl football teams prior to switching from the gridiron to the hardwood. Former South Carolina football wide receiver/basketball guard Bruce Ellington, after throwing a touchdown pass to the Gamecocks' quarterback on a reverse and catching a go-ahead TD pass in the second half of the Capital One Bowl against Wisconsin five years ago, is among the all-time Top 10 "Men For All Seasons."
In an era of specialization, research reveals Ellington is the first major-college basketball regular to compete the same academic school year in three consecutive football bowl games. He joined Terry Baker (Oregon State), Mike Bush (Washington State), Rick Casares (Florida), Ronald Curry (North Carolina), Charles Davis (Purdue), Pete "Bump" Elliott (Michigan), Fred Gibson (Georgia), Teyo Johnson (Stanford), Matt Jones (Arkansas), Terry Kirby (Virginia), Dave Logan (Colorado) and Tony "Zippy" Morocco (Georgia) as athletes who scored a touchdown in a bowl game shortly before or after switching uniforms and making significant contributions to the school's basketball squad. Ellington, after pacing USC in pass receptions, cut short both his college football and basketball career by declaring early for the NFL draft (started two of three early-season hoop contests).
In the ultimate one-and-only achievement, Baker is the lone football Heisman Trophy winner to play in the basketball Final Four (1963). Kirby, a running back, and Matt Blundin, a quarterback, were teammates who competed in back-to-back years for Virginia football squads in bowl games (Florida Citrus following 1989 season and Sugar following 1990) before becoming members of Cavaliers hoop teams participating in the NCAA playoffs.
Michigan State's Andre Rison is among a striking number of athletes who "crafted" playing both sports at the highest collegiate level in the same school year. NFL all-time great tight end Tony Gonzalez (California) is among the following alphabetical list of versatile athletes since the end of World War II who played in at least one football bowl game the same school year they were a hooper (bowl year denotes when regular season was played):
| Football-Basketball Player | College | FB Pos. | Bowl Game(s) | Two-Way Athlete Summary in Same Academic School Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Doug Atkins | Tennessee | DE | 1950 Cotton | Eventual NFL first-round pick helped defeat Texas 20-14 before averaging 9.9 ppg for Volunteers' basketball squad. |
| Terry Baker | Oregon State | QB | 1962 Liberty | MVP's 99-yard run from scrimmage accounted for only points in 6-0 victory against Villanova before becoming runner-up in scoring (13.4 ppg) with Beavers' NCAA Tournament fourth-place finisher. |
| Connor Barwin | Cincinnati | TE | 2006 International | One solo tackle in 27-24 triumph against Western Michigan before averaging 1.2 ppg and 1.4 rpg for Bearcats' basketball team. |
| Matt Blundin | Virginia | QB | 1989 Florida Citrus/1990 Sugar | Backup in two defeats (31-21 vs. Illinois and 23-22 vs. Tennessee) while averaging 3.3 ppg and 4.6 rpg with two NCAA playoff teams for Cavaliers. |
| Larry Brown | Georgia | TE | 1997 Outback | Defeated Wisconsin 33-6 before averaging 6.3 ppg and 4.2 rpg for Bulldogs' NIT third-place team. |
| Mike Bush | Washington State | WR | 2001 Sun | A 46-yard TD reception helped defeat Purdue 33-27 before becoming Cougars' third-leading scorer with 10.9 ppg as hoop senior. |
| Rick Casares | Florida | FB-PK | 1952 Gator | Rushed 21 times for 86 yards, scoring first TD in Gators' bowl history, and kicked both extra points in 14-13 nod over Tulsa before All-SEC second-team selection paced hoop squad in scoring (15.5 ppg) and rebounding (11.5 rpg). |
| Rip Collins | Louisiana State | FB | 1947 Cotton | All-SEC pick helped LSU secure 15-1 edge in first downs and 255-54 advantage in net yards rushing in 0-0 tie with Arkansas in standoff known as Ice Bowl because of sleet and snow before earning letter for school's hoop squad. |
| Sam Craft | Memphis | RB | 2015 Birmingham | Scored seven touchdowns (5 rushing/2 receiving) for bowl team losing against Auburn, 31-10, before averaging 2.2 ppg under coach Josh Pastner. |
| Ed Crawford | Mississippi | DB | 1955 Sugar | Thwarted any comeback attempt by TCU with interception in Rebels' 14-13 win in 1956 Cotton Bowl after 21-0 Sugar Bowl setback against Navy previous year before earning hoops letter as 6-3 forward. |
| Ronald Curry | North Carolina | QB | 1998 Las Vegas | Curry's 48-yard TD scamper put Tar Heels in front to stay in 20-13 win over San Diego State before averaging 2.8 ppg and 1.7 apg for hoop squad upset in first round of NCAA playoffs by Weber State. |
| Charles Davis | Purdue | TE | 2004 Sun | His 6-yard TD reception from Kyle Orton put Boilermakers ahead with just over one minute remaining but Arizona State marched 80 yards in four plays to win 27-23 before Davis averaged 2.9 ppg and 3.1 rpg in coach Gene Keady's swan song. |
| Matt Davison | Nebraska | SE | 1999 Fiesta | Leading Husker receiver in three bowl games, including 31-21 nod over Tennessee, before starting two Big 12 Conference basketball contests. |
| Rickey Dudley | Ohio State | TE | 1994 Florida Citrus | Caught two passes for 26 yards in 24-17 setback against Alabama before averaging team-high 7.5 rpg. |
| Bruce Ellington | South Carolina | WR | 2011 Capital One/2012 Outback/2013 Capital One | Season-long 45-yard kickoff return in 30-13 win over Nebraska and caught game-winning TD pass with only seconds remaining in 33-28 victory against Michigan before averaging 10.5 ppg while finishing Gamecocks' leader in either assists or steals. |
| Pete "Bump" Elliott | Michigan | B | 1947 Rose Bowl | Rushed seven times for 53 yards and caught 1-yard TD pass in 49-0 romp over Southern California before averaging 6 ppg for Wolverine hoopsters. |
| Percy Ellsworth | Virginia | S | 1994 Independence | Integral part of defense leading nation in interceptions helped Cavaliers end four-game bowl losing streak with 20-10 verdict over TCU before appearing in all four contests with Midwest Regional runner-up in NCAA tourney. |
| James Francis | Baylor | LB | 1986 Bluebonnet | Eventual NFL first-round pick helped Bears beat Colorado 21-9 before averaging 2.2 ppg and 2.2 rpg while shooting 52.2% from floor. |
| Fred Gibson | Georgia | WR | 2001 Music City | Opened scoring with 15-yard TD reception but Boston College rallied to prevail 20-16 before Gibson averaged 4.9 ppg with Bulldogs' NCAA playoff team. |
| Tony Gonzalez | California | TE | 1996 Aloha | Established Cal bowl record with nine receptions in 42-38 reversal against Navy before averaging 6.8 ppg and 4.5 rpg with Bears' squad losing against North Carolina in East Regional semifinals. |
| Gregg Guenther | Southern California | TE | 2003 Rose | Part-time starter for national champion managed one reception for 19 yards from QB Matt Leinart in 28-14 win against Michigan before averaging 5.6 ppg and 4.7 rpg with Trojans' hoop squad. |
| Ross Hales | Indiana | TE | 1993 Independence | Caught 34-yard pass in second quarter of 45-20 loss against Virginia Tech before making token appearance for Coach Bob Knight in Hoosiers' 67-58 win over Temple in NCAA playoffs. |
| Cecil Hankins | Oklahoma A&M | B | 1945 Cotton | Two-way back and top pass receive for Aggies team that trounced TCU before playing forward and leading basketball squad in scoring in NCAA playoffs for 1945 national titlist. |
| Joe Howard | Notre Dame | WR | 1983 Liberty | Caught one pass for 43 yards in 19-18 decision over Doug Flutie-led Boston College before averaging 5.5 ppg and 3.3 apg as part-time starter with Irish NIT runner-up. |
| Teyo Johnson | Stanford | WR | 2001 Seattle | A 4-yard fourth-quarter TD reception closed gap prior to bowing against Georgia Tech 24-14 before averaging 5.8 ppg and 4 rpg with Cardinal NCAA playoff squad. |
| Matt Jones | Arkansas | QB | 2003 Independence | Scored go-ahead TD, rushed 7 times for 74 yards and completed 6 of 14 passes in 27-14 verdict over Missouri before averaging 5 ppg and 4.5 rpg as Hogs hooper. |
| Wallace "Wah Wah" Jones | Kentucky | SE | 1947 Great Lakes | Leader in pass receptions from QB George Blanda under legendary coach Paul "Bear" Bryant for squad beating Villanova 24-14. All-SEC first-team selection in basketball averaged 9.3 ppg for Adolph Rupp's 1948 NCAA titlist. |
| Bronson Kaufusi | Brigham Young | DE | 2012 Poinsettia | Recorded sack in 23-6 victory against San Diego State before collecting 21 points and 34 rebounds in 20 hoop games for NIT semifinalist. |
| Corbin Kaufusi | Brigham Young | DL | 2016 Poinsettia | Posted four tackles in 24-21 triumph against Wyoming before 6-10 center collected 10 points and 15 rebounds in 16 hoop games for BYU. |
| Don King | Syracuse | RB | 1961 Liberty | Teammate of Heisman Trophy winner Ernie Davis was member of football squad coming from behind to nip Miami (Fla.), 15-14, before averaging 5 ppg and 3.9 rpg. |
| Jeff King | Virginia Tech | TE | 2004 Sugar | Caught three passes for 12 yards in 16-13 setback against Auburn before collecting 18 points and 23 rebounds in 16 games as hoop freshman with Hokies. |
| Terry Kirby | Virginia | RB | 1989 Florida Citrus/1990 Sugar | Rushed for 139 yards in 29 carries with one TD in losses against Illinois (31-21) and Tennessee (23-22) before averaging 2.8 ppg in two seasons with Cavaliers' hoops squad. |
| Dave Logan | Colorado | WR | 1975 Bluebonnet | His 4-yard TD reception gave Buffaloes 14-0 lead prior to them succumbing against Texas 38-21 before becoming basketball team's runner-up in scoring (12.7 ppg) and rebounding (6.5 rpg). |
| Leonard Mitchell | Houston | DE | 1978 Cotton | UH squandered 34-12 lead when Joe Montana-led Notre Dame scored 23 unanswered points in fourth quarter to win by one before Mitchell averaged 5.4 ppg and 5.6 rpg for Cougars' hoop squad. |
| Tony "Zippy" Morocco | Georgia | HB | 1950 Presidential Cup | Scored two second-half touchdowns (30-yard run from scrimmage and 65-yard punt return) as Co-MVP in 40-20 setback against Texas A&M before averaging 9.7 ppg with Bulldogs' basketball team. |
| Prince Parker | Virginia Tech | TE | 2010 Orange | Caught one pass for four yards for Frank Beamer-coached squad finishing season with 40-12 loss against Stanford before making his only field-goal attempt and grabbing one rebound in four basketball games under coach Seth Greenberg. |
| Brent Petrus | Cincinnati | TE | 1997 Humanitarian | Three-year backup QB caught 10 passes for 254 yards and one touchdown as TE his senior season for the Bearcats' first bowl team in 46 years (beat Utah State, 35-19). Averaged 2.5 ppg and 2.2 rpg while shooting 64.4% from the floor under UC coach Bob Huggins, participating in two 1998 NCAA tourney games. |
| Nate Poole | Marshall | WR | 1997 Motor City | Teammate of Randy Moss caught 26 passes for 258 yards and two touchdowns during freshman season for bowl team losing to Ole Miss, 34-31, before sinking all four free-throw attempts in two basketball games. |
| Jerry Priestley | Georgia Tech | QB | 1965 Gator | One-yard touchdown run early in fourth quarter helped propel Yellow Jackets to 31-21 win over Texas Tech before he competed in eight basketball games later in school year. |
| Bryan Randall | Virginia Tech | QB | 2003 Insight | Threw for more passing yards (398) than future NFL star Aaron Rodgers (394) in 52-49 setback against Cal before averaging 3.1 ppg and 1.3 rpg for the Hokies under coach Seth Greenberg. |
| Pat Richter | Wisconsin | E | 1962 Rose | Registered then Rose Bowl-record 11 pass receptions in 42-37 setback against USC as senior co-captain before averaging 3.3 ppg and 4.3 rpg in eight basketball games. |
| Andre Rison | Michigan State | WR | 1987 Rose | Had two long pass receptions (55 and 36 yards) in a 20-17 win against USC before registering 24 points and 42 assists in 18 games for the Spartans' basketball squad. |
| Clifton Robinson | Auburn | WR-PR | 1997 Peach | The Tigers topped Clemson, 21-17, before freshman collected 22 points, six rebounds and six assists in 12 basketball games under coach Cliff Ellis. |
| Dave Robinson | Penn State | LB-WR | 1960 Liberty | Two-way performer for PSU squad overwhelming Oregon, 41-12, before he made two free throws and grabbed five rebounds in two basketball games for the Nittany Lions. |
| Nate Robinson | Washington | CB | 2002 Sun | His QB sack helped Huskies get off to strong start before bowing against Purdue 34-24 prior to freshman pacing hoopers in scoring (13 ppg). |
| Reggie Rogers | Washington | DL | 1984 Orange | Eventual NFL first-round draft choice helped upend Oklahoma 28-17 before averaging 5.7 ppg and 3.9 rpg with Huskies' hoop squad. |
| Robert Royal | Louisiana State | TE | 2000 Peach | Defeated Georgia Tech, 28-14, after setting school record for tight ends with five touchdown receptions in Nick Saban's first season as coach of the Tigers. Collected 10 points and six rebounds in five basketball games after turning in his cleats. |
| Bill Saul | Penn State | LB | 1959 Liberty | Defeated Alabama 7-0 before averaging 6.1 ppg and 4 rpg with Nittany Lions' hoopers. |
| Otto Schnellbacher | Kansas | E | 1947 Orange | Football co-captain finished career with records for receptions (58) and receiving yards (1,069) standing for 22 years. Leading scorer for KU's hoop squad in 1947-48. |
| Dick Schnittker | Ohio State | E | 1950 Rose | Rushed once for five yards in 17-14 victory against California before All-Big Ten Conference first-team selection was game-high scorer in two 1950 NCAA playoff contests for Buckeyes. |
| Austin Seferian-Jenkins | Washington | TE | 2011 Alamo | Caught five passes for 59 yards in highest-scoring regulation bowl game in history (67-56 loss to RGIII-led Baylor) before collecting seven points and nine rebounds in four NIT contests for Huskies' semifinalist. |
| Jim Skala | Michigan | E | 1950 Rose | Caught two passes for 33 yards with football team going on to defeat favored Cal, 14-6, prior to averaging 7.5 ppg on UM's hoop squad. |
| Dick Soergel | Oklahoma State | QB | 1958 Bluegrass | Completed 6 of 12 passes for 77 yards and 2-point conversion in 15-6 win against Florida State before averaging 8.5 ppg and 4.9 rpg for Pokes' basketball squad plus posting 8-1 pitching record and winning national championship baseball game. |
| Peter "Pat" Stark | Syracuse | QB | 1952 Orange | Blasted by Bart Starr-led Alabama, 61-6, before averaging 9.7 ppg for SU's hoop squad. |
| Roy "Rebel" Steiner | Alabama | E-DB | 1947 Sugar | All-SEC choice was leading pass receiver for Crimson Tide squad losing to Texas, 27-7, before forward earned a letter for Bama's basketball team. |
| Tai Streets | Michigan | WR | 1996 Outback | Wolverines' leading receiver had only two catches for 12 yards in 17-14 setback against Alabama before collecting four points and seven rebounds in 13 basketball games for NIT titlist coached by Steve Fisher. |
| Syniker Taylor | Mississippi | FS | 1999 Independence | Tied for team lead with three interceptions for football squad that edged Oklahoma, 27-25, before starting six basketball games en route to averaging 2.2 ppg and 2.3 rpg. |
| Adalius Thomas | Southern Mississippi | DE | 1997 Liberty | All-CUSA defensive lineman for team pounding Pitt, 41-7, on gridiron before competing in three basketball games for USM after being a hoop regular as power forward the previous season. |
| Lamar Thomas | Miami (Fla.) | WR | 2000 Cotton | Caught one pass for 14 yards in 46-3 trouncing of Texas before collecting 16 points and 4 rebounds in four basketball games. |
| Wilson Thomas | Nebraska | WR | 2001 Rose | Huskers leading receiver caught three passes for 36 yards in 37-14 loss against Miami (Fla.) before averaging 4.6 ppg and 3.8 rpg. |
| Willie Townsend | Notre Dame | WR | 1972 Orange | Irish's top pass catcher and teammates lost to Johnny Rodgers-led Nebraska 40-6 before averaging 2.1 ppg for Digger Phelps-coached hoop squad. |
| Charlie Ward | Florida State | QB | 1992 Orange/1993 Orange | Completed 39-of-73 passes for 473 yards in back-to-back victories over Nebraska (27-14 and 18-16) while pacing FSU in assists and steals average his final two hoop campaigns. |
| Derek Watson | South Carolina | RB | 2002 Outback | Lou Holtz protege rushed for 27 yards on 11 carries and caught four passes for 37 yards in 31-28 win against Ohio State before scoring one point in two minutes of one hoops game. |
| Charlie West | Texas-El Paso | DB | 1967 Sun | Bobby Dodd's pupil eventually named to 75th Anniversary of All-Sun Bowl Team collected two points and one rebounds in two games under Miners coach Don Haskins. |
| Ron Widby | Tennessee | P | 1965 Bluebonnet/1966 Gator | Nation's top punter for coach Doug Dickey's second of first two Vols football teams that both went to bowl games (wins over Tulsa 27-6 and Syracuse 18-12) while also being an All-SEC basketball selection (including 50-point outburst in final home game). |
| De'Runnya Wilson | Mississippi State | WR | 2013 Liberty | Caught three passes from Bulldogs QB Dak Prescott for 37 yards in 44-7 win against Rice before collecting 6 points and 11 rebounds in seven hoop games. |
| Pat Wilson | Michigan State | QB-DB | 1956 Rose | Substituted in as DB for Earl Morrall (his roommate) in 17-14 win against UCLA. Single-platoon football permitted one substitution among the starting 11. Went on to average 6.1 ppg and 3.4 rpg in 14 hoop contests. |
| Irvin "Whiz" Wisniewski | Michigan | E | 1947 Rose | Caught four passes for 73 yards in 1947 as member of 10-0 national championship team as sophomore before scoring two points in Wolverines' first NCAA playoff win (66-49 against Columbia in 1948 Eastern Regional third-place game). |
Heisman Hoopers: When Will Another Charlie Ward Emerge on NCAA Scene?
How long was USELESS Today lying in wait with old information until maximizing smear of Oklahoma QB Kyler Murray's tweets as immature adolescent (14- and 15-year-old)? At least the media maggots didn't desecrate versatile Murray for playing baseball rather than basketball. Murray, an outfielder, was the ninth pick overall in this year's MLB draft by the Oakland Athletics.
Will another hooper ever strike the Heisman pose? At least three Heisman Trophy winners in three straight decades - 1940s, 1950s and 1960s - are among the football players also competing in college basketball. But Florida State's Charlie Ward (1993) is the only such multi-sport athlete in the last 50 years to achieve the feat.
At a time when basketball and football seasons overlap, you might want to know three Heisman recipients in a 10-year span from 1947 through 1956 were from Notre Dame. Following is an alphabetical list of Heisman Trophy winners who played varsity basketball at some point in their college careers:
| Heisman Winner | Year | College Where Also Played BKB (Hoops Summary) | FB Pos. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Terry Baker | 1962 | Oregon State (All-West Regional selection in NCAA Tournament in 1962 and 1963) | QB |
| Ernie Davis | 1961 | Syracuse (team-high rebound average with 9.6 rpg in 1960-61) | HB |
| Glenn Davis | 1946 | Army (hoop team member in 1944-45 and 1945-46) | FB |
| Tom Harmon | 1940 | Michigan (averaged 7.6 ppg as sophomore in 1938-39) | HB |
| Paul Hornung | 1956 | Notre Dame (averaged 6.1 ppg in 10 games as sophomore in 1954-55) | QB |
| Dick Kazmaier | 1951 | Princeton (averaged 3.4 ppg as sophomore and junior) | HB |
| Larry Kelley | 1936 | Yale (finished among top 12 in scoring in EIL in 1935-36 and 1936-37) | E |
| Nile Kinnick | 1939 | Iowa (runner-up in scoring average with 6.1 ppg as sophomore) | HB |
| Johnny Lattner | 1953 | Notre Dame (game-winning basket in OT at NYU in 1951-52) | HB |
| Johnny Lujack | 1947 | Notre Dame (averaged 3.4 ppg as starting guard in 1943-44) | QB |
| Roger Staubach | 1963 | Navy (played varsity hoops in 1962-63) | QB |
| Doak Walker | 1948 | Southern Methodist (letterman as freshman in 1945-46) | HB |
| Charlie Ward | 1993 | Florida State (averaged 8.1 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 4.4 apg and 2.6 spg first half of 1990s) | QB |
Centers of Attention: How Did Bol's Debut Compare With Premier Pivotmen?
Textbook centers are becoming a rare breed. For instance, Oregon's 7-2 Bol Bol, son of 10-year NBA center Manute Bol (7-6), is fond of hanging around the perimeter (nailing four three-pointers in his sixth outing). Time will tell if Bol (12 points/12 rebounds/4 blocked shots in debut vs. Portland State) eventually deserves to be included among the premier pivotmen in college basketball history. By almost any measure, centers in the last 40 years other than Kentucky's Anthony Davis don't seem to be anywhere close to duplicating feats luminaries Lew Alcindor, Wilt Chamberlain, Artis Gilmore, Bob Lanier, Jerry Lucas, Bill Russell and Bill Walton achieved in their initial varsity campaigns.
Similar to Navy's David Robinson in 1983-84, Connecticut's Andre Drummond was scoreless in his season debut six years ago against Columbia. In a forgettable debut, Wake Forest's Tim Duncan was also scoreless in a season-opening loss to NCAA Division II Alaska-Anchorage in 1993-94 before rebounding with a 12-point, 12-rebound performance in his next outing against Hawaii.
Alcindor (77: 56 points/21 rebounds) and Chamberlain (83: 52 points/31 rebounds) each totaled more points and rebounds in their college game debut than Drummond, Duncan, Patrick Ewing, Nerlens Noel, Hakeem Olajuwon, Shaquille O'Neal, Robinson and Ralph Sampson amassed collectively. Following is a look at how many of the premier centers in history fared in their varsity debut against a major college and summary of their first season of NCAA Division I competition:
| Celebrated Center | School | First Varsity Season | Debut Game | PPG | RPG | W-L Mark |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DeAndre Ayton | Arizona | 2017-18 | 19 points/12 rebounds/3 blocks | 20.1 | 11.6 | 27-8 |
| Mohamed Bamba | Texas | 2017-18 | 15 points/8 rebounds/4 blocks | 12.9 | 10.5 | 19-15 |
| Karl-Anthony Towns | Kentucky | 2014-15 | 8 points/8 rebounds | 10.3 | 6.7 | 38-1 |
| Jahlil Okafor | Duke | 2014-15 | 19 points/6 rebounds | 17.3 | 8.5 | 35-4 |
| Nerlens Noel | Kentucky | 2012-13 | 4 points/9 rebounds | 10.5 | 9.5 | 21-12 |
| Anthony Davis | Kentucky | 2011-12 | 23 points/10 rebounds | 14.2 | 10.4 | 38-2 |
| Greg Oden | Ohio State | 2006-07 | 14 points/10 rebounds | 15.7 | 9.6 | 35-4 |
| Tim Duncan | Wake Forest | 1993-94 | 12 points/12 rebounds | 9.8 | 9.6 | 21-12 |
| Shaquille O'Neal | Louisiana State | 1989-90 | 10 points/5 rebounds | 13.9 | 12.0 | 23-9 |
| Alonzo Mourning | Georgetown | 1988-89 | 10 points/10 rebounds | 13.1 | 7.3 | 29-5 |
| David Robinson | Navy | 1983-84 | scoreless/1 rebound | 7.6 | 4.0 | 24-8 |
| Hakeem Olajuwon | Houston | 1981-82 | 2 points/0 rebounds | 8.3 | 6.5 | 25-8 |
| Patrick Ewing | Georgetown | 1981-82 | 7 points/4 rebounds | 12.7 | 8.5 | 30-7 |
| Ralph Sampson | Virginia | 1979-80 | 4 points/6 rebounds | 14.9 | 11.2 | 24-10 |
| *Bill Walton | UCLA | 1971-72 | 19 points/14 rebounds | 21.1 | 15.5 | 29-1 |
| **Artis Gilmore | Jacksonville | 1969-70 | 35 points/18 rebounds | 26.5 | 22.2 | 17-7 |
| *Bob Lanier | St. Bonaventure | 1967-68 | 23 points/17 rebounds | 26.2 | 15.6 | 23-2 |
| *Lew Alcindor | UCLA | 1966-67 | 56 points/21 rebounds | 29.0 | 15.5 | 30-0 |
| *Jerry Lucas | Ohio State | 1959-60 | 16 points/28 rebounds | 26.3 | 16.3 | 25-3 |
| *Wilt Chamberlain | Kansas | 1956-57 | 52 points/31 rebounds | 29.6 | 18.9 | 24-3 |
| *Bill Russell | San Francisco | 1953-54 | 16 points/17 rebounds | 19.9 | 19.2 | 14-7 |
*Sophomore classification.
**Junior classification after attending junior college.
Science Fiction "V": What Should "V" Mean During ESPN's Annual Rerun?
Weekly, we get a weak effort from #MessMedia hacks telling the entire story as public respect for their vocation plummets quicker than NFL ratings running in parallel with National Anthem-loving GQ poster boy #ColonKrapernick taking a knee. During messy 2016 presidential campaign, Wikileaks hacking confirmed what many believed about collusion between left-leaning politicians and a predictably pathetic press. If the lame-stream media did its job, there wouldn't be any need for paying attention to undisputed facts distributed by Wikileaks. At any rate, the best pre-Christmas present in decades for conservatives has been watching unhinged leftists whine and vomit in fetal position after biased bozos were Trumped. Seems as if majority of press puke are in the woods tracking down loser to console her and take a Shrillary selfie with flipping electors. They certainly aren't attending her new "I'm So Vain" tour. Regrettably, the progressive mindset depicted by inauguration-nauseated Rockette(s), White House Christmas-party boycotting #CNNSucks and in lopsided editorial endorsements for POTUS also infects the toy department (sports).
According to Wikipedia, V was an American science fiction TV series running two seasons on ABC, chronicling the arrival on Earth of a technologically advanced alien species ostensibly coming in peace, but actually boasting sinister motives. This could be Webster's definition of the lame-stream media seeking therapy for post-election anxiety. ABC also has an annual V rerun on vaunted ESPN while losing in excess of 10 million subscribers over four years. The intent isn't vile but, if an observer values the whole truth, there is vast soap-boxing fiction involved amid the "V" all day every day as the vindicated big man on ESPN's Jesus-free campus seemingly a perfect fit for "Z" as in zero Jeff Zucker to leave fake-news #CNNSucks and become chief executive.
Veering off-course with velocity promoting gabby "V" - not baby "J" - as the reason for the season, the Nationwide Leader's culture violates the time-honored vow of telling the entire story in a veracious way. It's vexing as ESPN's parade of glorification pitchmen, including staffers and it-takes-a-village coaches, incessantly laud former commentator Jim Valvano by chapter and verse. If "V" sycophants could fly, the mess media highlighted by ESPN and most of the coaching community would be jets. A "Jimmy V Week" culminates with an early-season classic to enhance cancer research fundraising for a foundation named after an individual who joins John Calipari (UMass/Memphis) and Jerry Tarkanian (Long Beach State/UNLV) as the only repeat-offender coaches shackled with having multiple schools under their watch forced to vacate NCAA playoff participation. Too bad 100% of the donated plaudits don't go straight through a truth detector such as the "biased" New York Times, which detailed how ESPN received more than $250 million in state tax breaks and credits thus far this century.
Anyone with a visible pulse supports the vision of finding a cure for the vulnerable afflicted by cancer, but a classic lack-of-proper-perspective stemming from the cult-of-personality dynamic is ESPN's vivid hero worship of the vibrant Valvano. He wasn't a bloodthirsty vampire villain but there are a variety of vigorous reasons for not carrying ESPN's water supporting his canonization in the wake of vanquishing Houston to vault to the 1983 NCAA playoff title. How was his deceit that much different from another cancer celebrity such as Lance Armstrong? After Valvano ran afoul of NCAA investigators at Iona, a private attorney retained by North Carolina State volunteered he was convinced that the institution could successfully sue him for failing to ensure the academic progress of his NCSU players. While Duke overdoses on recruiting one-and-done exemptions with board scores nowhere close to average Cameron Crazy student, the biggest scholastic question in the ACC is which school - NCSU vs. UNC - wins the battle for most egregious academic scandal over the last three decades.
At the very least, virile Valvano should have verified that standout guard Sidney Lowe took a remedial tax preparation course to help him steer clear of vice squad by vandalizing the state or Child Rearing 101; especially if Lowe, twice voted All-ACC and a first-teamer with teammate Thurl Bailey in 1983, was going to become one of his head coaching successors with the Wolfpack. Additional suspect characters aligning with Valvano at NCSU included Kenny Drummond, Russell Pierre, Dinky Proctor, Charles Shackleford, Craig Tyson and Chris Washburn (of 470 SAT fame in a league where athletes previously had to reach 800 to be eligible). Did Jimmy V brag that stereo-stealer Washburn was going to "make our program"? Did V mean break rather than make? Awash in intellect, Shackleford, who admitted accepting $65,000 cash from outside influences during his final two years enrolled in college, is perhaps best known for the following quote: "Left hand, right hand, it doesn't matter. I'm amphibious." After a series of drug-related incidents, he was found dead in his apartment at the age of 50.
At the same time of holiday season King Herod-like ESPN vetoed a "venal" hospital ad a couple of years ago celebrating Jesus before relenting, it seemingly will "never give up" a vintage and valiant voyage portraying V as the most virtuous coach in history. The sanitized version is in the network's veins akin to trying to duplicate anchorman Ron Burgundy's humor in promotional ads. Voicing opposition to this mythical narrative leaves a cynic open to vilification as being venomous. Still, the network's doctored depiction of V is as honest as POTUS and his vultures telling citizens with a "period" about retaining their current physician (ESPN previously aired ObamaCare ad passing its rigid standards); authentic as the sign language interpreter at a Nelson Mandela memorial; genuinely patriotic as lip-syncing Beyonce; real as Ray "Dancin' On Their Graves" Lewis lecturing us about NFL violence and ball-deflation ethics; genuine as claiming no behind-the-scenes negotiations occurred naming Bruce Jenner's inner woman courageous nearly 40 years after he was a gold-medal winning Olympian, or as valid as fake girlfriend of former Notre Dame All-American linebacker Manti Te'o. Yes, Russia made me point out these flaws to impact donations!
Irish idealist Dick Vitale spearheads promoting the V Foundation, impressively raising in the neighborhood of $200 million. Understandably, his visceral reaction probably is that any dissent makes Valvano the victim of a vicious vendetta. Anything but vapid, there is no doubt vivacious Vitale means well and has his heart in the proper place serving as Valvano's valet. But as verbose Vitale is wont to do, he is vulnerable to vehemently going overboard with his voluminous embellishment. Preying on emotions, a majority of vacuous media smugly fall in line seemingly signing off on one of those old phantom NCSU readmission agreements after flunking out where they made a commitment "pledging to work hard (at maintaining image) and keep a positive mental attitude." Does press know if Washburn signed worthless piece of paper in new vroom Datsun before vagabond ventured out to find victim's stereo while needing help from staff finding various classrooms?
In an affront to valuable numbers that never lie, there are fake-news times when ESPN sycophants operate in a vacuum shamelessly enhancing Valvano's credentials as a "survive-and-advance" tactician, perpetuating a falsehood he was a late-game strategical genius. You can't take a fake-news vacation from the veracity of cold hard facts having Valvano rank in the lower third of DI coaches among those with at least 150 close contests (decided by fewer than six points). Capitalizing on six opponents combining to shoot an anemic 56.8% from the free-throw line, the law of averages was with NCSU in 1983 when it became the only school to have as many as four NCAA playoff games decided by one or two points en route to a title. The Wolfpack trailed in the final minute of seven of its last nine triumphs, offsetting his high percentage of close-contest setbacks.
The arena in Reynolds Coliseum, the former home to N.C. State hoops, has been named for Valvano after supporters made a $5 million pledge. But people in power need to be held accountable even if a coach such as Duke's Mike Krzyzewski claims many of the "allegations were fabrications" against his ACC counterpart who entered the league together in 1980-81. "I can't breathe" holding opinion unless Coach K moonlighted as an investigator because there is no reason to be vague and treat big boys with velvet gloves. ESPN could virtually avoid any vanishing credibility in this instance by incorporating deceased Rick Majerus in the foundation equation. After all, the 24-year veteran college head coach was also a vocal ESPN analyst. Unless it detracts from the storyline, call it the V & M Foundation and add heart disease to the venture's research grants. Didn't Majerus exhibit as much, if not more, valor? Perhaps trend-setting broadcaster Stuart Scott and his battle with cancer should be included as a focal point.
A tearjerker ESPY speech notwithstanding, it's a cancer of priorities and ESPN sullies its reputation with insufferable verbal voodoo vouching Valvano was something he wasn't beyond a good coach who never had a season with fewer than four defeats in conference competition. Amid narcissism and extensive self-promotion, an "inspirational" story reeks of overkill because vermin among a complicit sports media are predictably unprincipled and offer the maximum tear-inducement reminiscent of a fairy-tale sans conveying the entire picture. Forget the vulgar academic progress of Valvano's players at N.C. State (735 average SAT score and excessive number of positive drug tests during the 1980s). No Extra Sensitive Pious Network should be an outside-the-lines enabler seemingly unaccountable while selling only a partial story. They have an obligation to visit the whole story; not vacillate and be on verge of failing their constituency in regard to vainly providing a viable role model. Don't forget guilt-by-association coaching vacancy at Drake, which forced former V assistant Tom Abatemarco (at Iona and NCSU) to resign due to various valueless practices with the Bulldogs.
As for venerable Majerus, there won't be a vicarious movie or "30 for 30" special made about his self-effacing humor, eating habits and fact none of his NCAA playoff teams with three different schools ever had to vacate NCAA play. In a stark scholastic contrast, his 1998 Utah squad provided the vanguard of Final Four achievements - only team ever to feature three Academic All-Americans among its versatile regulars. For the record, Majerus ranked among the top third of coaches in games decided by fewer than six points. But he simply doesn't fit into a contrived storyline. It would be a surprise if Utah players under Majerus took an "Understanding Music" class during Christmas vacation to help stay eligible like NCSU scholars did under Valvano.
Just keep everything in perspective. Alluding to allegations about a professor altering grades of Wolfpack players, the faculty senate chairman at the time asked SI: "If we're supposedly changing grades, how come we have so many people in academic difficulty?" Pulitzer Prize winner Claude Sitton, a doughty local editor/columnist for the Raleigh News & Observer during Valvano's tenure, was unapologetic about the paper's contemporaneous coverage of the NCSU scandal. "Looking back on it, Valvano just initiated academic rape as far as basketball players were concerned," Sitton said. "But Valvano only did what (Chancellor Bruce) Poulton wanted him to do, and that was win ball games no matter how."
In a scornful column, Sitton wrote: "College sports, in short, are corrupt. The rot reaches far beyond the campus - to the kid on the corner who thinks sports opens the glory road, the high school teacher who gives a player a free pass, the TV executive who manipulates universities for profit, sportswriters who see, hear and speak no evil, and all who know that higher education has been turned into a sideshow by the commercial sports conglomerate and do nothing to end it." Sitton's summary long before NCSU's unseemly sneaker-stench recruiting of Dennis Smith Jr. continued to ring true as the ACC summoned Louisville and Syracuse to its ranks in recent years as they each soon went on probationary status with their Hall of Shame coaches.
ESPN's abundant coverage seemed to revel in cancer front-man Lance Armstrong's arrogant stumblin' and bumblin' "one big lie" rather than taking his bike-ride fall in a valley as time for self-reflection. The view from this vantage point is that defend-the-brand revisionist history is a misguided echo chamber resembling hostage videos. Amid the distortion, a final verdict persists about a greater-good higher calling. As many folks as possible should make a vintage donation to the V Foundation. Just envision V as Victory (over cancer) or as Vitale (for his long-term heavy lifting in the project).
It wasn't long before name-dropping ESPN, via former Out House correspondent Andy Katz apparently getting as much beer-summit face time with trustworthy ex-POTUS as ex-HHS Secretary Kathleen "Get-In-Line" Sebelius, went viral giving a prominent "Audacity-of-Hype" venue for Oval Office NCAA bracket selections. But the West Wing(ing) verve must absorb so much dignified time for the selfie-taking hoopster-in-chief that a Sgt. Schultz "I-know-nothing" routine emerges while chronically pleading ignorance about various less vital matters such as the Benghazi terrorist attack, ShrillaryRotten's multiple email address changes as Secretary of Yoga, IRS targeting of conservatives, Fast and Furious gun-running, healthcare exchange ineptitude, NSA spying on allies, North Korea's cyber "vandalism," Obama's Justice Department snooping on national media while unmasking opponents, etc., and then failing to attend a church service at Christmas. Meanwhile, a void in thought-police treatment made more faith-influenced individuals nearly vomit when the network's "inn" didn't have room for the authentic Messiah's message vying for a little air time more important to many Americans than giving free political points.
As the #AudacityofHype, our departed fearless leader, might proclaim: "Cut it out!" Thus, it was no surprise sister network A&E emerged equally intolerant of deeply-held religious beliefs when "be(ing) original" by suspending/marginalizing the brassy "Duck Dynasty" patriarch for his version of "Vagina Monologues." Are you buyin' what ESPN's flock of quacks are sellin' verbatim - accepting the laughing/thinking/crying hook, line and sinker? Very odd this vociferous emphasis on V. Upon "ducking" and turning the other cheek again, it's time to say an old-fashioned: "Merry CHRISTmas, ESPN!" If this vernacular is objectionable to sensibilities of the politically-correct elite, then avoid a GQ bearded set-up with a patronizing "Happy Holidays!" As recent ESPN personnel layoffs reach into the hundreds again, we'll try for the 100th time to appeal for virtuous network specifically and hoop press generally to lay off attempting portrayal of "V" as someone he wasn't. At least boast the vinegar to go beyond veneer and never give up attempting to tell the entire tale. Instead, we'll likely get spoon-fed version of the scene in book Personal Fouls regarding circumstances surrounding Walker Lambiotte's transfer from NCSU to Northwestern (where he averaged 17.4 ppg in 1988-89 and 1989-90). Vainglorious Valvano said: "I don't deserve that. I'm above being treated like that."
On This NFL Date: Ex-College Hoopers Ready For Some December Football
Long before kneeling knuckleheads such as ill-informed GQ poster boy #ColonKrapernick and his supporters, the NCAA Tournament commenced in 1939, which was one year after the NIT triggered national postseason competition. An overlooked "versatile athlete" feat occurring in 1938 likely never to be duplicated took place at Arkansas, where the quarterback for the football squad (Jack Robbins) repeated as an All-SWC first-team basketball selection, leading the Razorbacks (19-3) to the league title. After the season, Robbins became an NFL first-round draft choice by the Chicago Cardinals (5th pick overall) and senior football/basketball teammates Jim Benton (11th pick by Cleveland Rams) and Ray Hamilton (41st pick by Rams) went on to become wide receivers for at least six years in the NFL. Yes, they created a kneeling-in-admiration shatterproof achievement - three members of a league championship basketball squad who promptly were among the top 41 selections in same NFL draft.
Two years later, All-SWC first-team hoop selection Howard "Red" Hickey was instrumental in Arkansas reaching the 1941 Final Four before becoming an end for the Cleveland Rams' 1945 NFL titlist. Two-sport college teammate and fellow end O'Neal Adams scored five touchdowns for the New York Giants the first half of the 1940s. Another two-sport Hog who played for the Giants in the mid-1940s was Harry Wynne. An earlier versatile Razorback was Jim Lee Howell, who was an All-SWC first five hoop selection in 1935-36 before becoming a starting end for the Giants' 1938 NFL titlist and Pro Bowl participant the next year. Adams, Benton, Hamilton, Hickey and Howell combined for 77 touchdowns in an 11-year span from 1938 through 1948 when at least one of the ex-Razorback hoopers scored a TD in each of those seasons.
Hickey and ex-Hog All-SWC second-team hooper in 1929-30/NFL end Milan Creighton each coached NFL franchises. Many other ex-college hoopers also displayed their wares on the gridiron. Following is exhaustive research you can tackle regarding former college basketball players who made a name for themselves in December football at the professional level:
DECEMBER
1: B Len Barnum (West Virginia Wesleyan hooper) accounted for the New York Giants' lone score with a 17-yard touchdown pass to Jim Lee Howell (All-SWC first-five hoops selection as Arkansas senior in 1935-36) in 14-6 setback against the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1940. . . . Los Angeles Rams E Jim Benton (forward was Arkansas' third-leading scorer in SWC play as senior in 1937-38) caught two touchdown passes from Bob Waterfield in a 31-21 win against the New York Giants in 1946. . . . Cleveland Browns FB Jim Brown (#2-scorer with 14 ppg for Syracuse as sophomore in 1954-55 before averaging 11.3 as junior) rushed for 179 yards on 29 carries in a 24-10 win against the St. Louis Cardinals in 1963. . . . B Olie Cordill (Rice hoops letterman in 1938) caught a third-quarter touchdown pass to help the Cleveland Rams secure 13-13 tie against the Green Bay Packers in 1940. . . . Green Bay Packers FB Ted Fritsch Sr. (Wisconsin-Stevens Point hoops letterman in 1940-41 and 1941-42) had three of his league-high nine rushing touchdowns in a 20-7 win against the Washington Redskins in 1946. . . . Los Angeles Dons rookie E Dale Gentry (averaged 5.3 ppg for Washington State's 1941 NCAA Tournament runner-up) caught two touchdown passes in a 62-14 win against the Buffalo Bisons in 1946. . . . Dallas Cowboys CB Cornell Green (Utah State's all-time leading scorer and rebounder when career ended in 1961-62) had two interceptions in a 34-27 setback against the New York Giants in 1963. . . . TE Todd Heap (grabbed 14 rebounds in 11 games for Arizona State in 1999-00) caught a touchdown pass midway through the fourth quarter to give the Baltimore Ravens the lead in a 27-23 win against the Cincinnati Bengals in 2002. . . . Minnesota Vikings QB Brad Johnson (part-time starting forward for Florida State as freshman in 1987-88 when averaging 5.9 ppg and shooting 89.1% from free-throw line) threw four touchdown passes in a 41-17 win against the Arizona Cardinals in 1996. . . . Chicago Cardinals rookie E Mal Kutner (two-year Texas hoops letterman in early 1940s) caught two touchdown passes from Paul Christman in a 35-28 win against the Chicago Bears in 1946. . . . Los Angeles Rams TE James McDonald (four-year Southern California letterman in early 1980s averaged 8.2 ppg and 4.8 rpg as senior forward) had a 35-yard pass reception in 29-3 setback against the New Orleans Saints in 1985. . . . Brooklyn Dodgers TB Ace Parker (Duke hoops letterman in 1936) threw two touchdown passes in a 14-6 win against the New York Giants in 1940. One of the TD receptions was caught by rookie HB Banks McFadden (led Clemson in scoring each of his three seasons en route to becoming school's first All-American in 1939). . . . Chicago Bears K Mac Percival (three-year hoops letterman was part of squad winning Texas Tech's first SWC championship in major sport in 1960-61) kicked three of his league-high 25 field goals in a 23-17 win against the New Orleans Saints in 1968. . . . New York Giants B Kink Richards (Simpson IA hoops letterman) had a decisive 31-yard rushing touchdown in the fourth quarter of 21-14 win against the Philadelphia Eagles in 1935. . . . Atlanta Falcons WR Andre Rison (backup hoops guard for Michigan State in 1987-88) had eight pass receptions for 124 yards - including two fourth-quarter touchdowns - in a 35-31 win against the Green Bay Packers in 1991. . . . Washington Redskins QB Norm Snead (averaged 7.8 ppg in four Wake Forest games as senior in 1960-61) passed for 332 yards in a 36-20 setback against the Baltimore Colts in 1963. . . . Cincinnati Bengals QB John Stofa (averaged 5.8 ppg and 5.4 rpg for Buffalo in 1961-62) threw two second-half touchdown passes in a 33-14 setback against the Boston Patriots in 1968. . . . San Diego Chargers WR Kitrick Taylor (Washington State hooper in 1984-85 and 1986-87) had six pass receptions for 60 yards in a 9-7 setback against the Oakland Raiders in 1991.
2: Washington Redskins B Steve Bagarus (Notre Dame hooper in early 1940s) caught two touchdown passes (70 and 29 yards) from QB Sammy Baugh (TCU three-year hoops letterman was All-SWC honorable mention selection as senior in 1936-37) in a 24-0 win against the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1945. Baugh finished with three TD passes. . . . Philadelphia Eagles WR Harold Carmichael (starter two seasons for Southern LA averaged 9.8 ppg and 10.6 rpg in 1969-70) caught two second-quarter touchdown passes from Ron Jaworski in a 44-7 win against the Detroit Lions in 1979. . . . Dallas Cowboys TE Jean Fugett (leading scorer and rebounder for Amherst MA as junior in 1970-71) caught two touchdown passes in a 22-10 win against the Denver Broncos in 1973. . . . Kansas City Chiefs TE Tony Gonzalez (averaged 6.4 ppg and 4.3 rpg for California from 1994-95 through 1996-97) caught 10 passes for 140 yards in a 24-10 setback against the San Diego Chargers in 2007. . . . Cleveland Browns QB Otto Graham (Big Ten Conference runner-up in scoring as Northwestern sophomore in 1941-42 and junior in 1942-43) threw four first-half touchdown passes in a 49-28 win against the Chicago Cardinals in 1951. . . . New York Giants TB Hinkey Haines (Lebanon Valley PA transfer earned hoops letter for Penn State in 1920 and 1921) rushed for two fourth-quarter touchdowns in a 19-13 setback against the New York Yankees in 1928. . . . Los Angeles Rams E Elroy "Crazy Legs" Hirsch (starting center for Michigan in 1944) had a 91-yard touchdown reception from Bob Waterfield in 42-17 win against the Chicago Bears in 1951. . . . Detroit Lions QB Bobby Layne (Texas hooper in 1944-45) threw two second-half touchdown passes in a 42-10 win against the Chicago Bears in 1956. . . . Chicago Bears QB Johnny Lujack (averaged 3.4 ppg as starting guard for Notre Dame in 1943-44) rushed for two first-quarter touchdowns in a 42-17 setback against the Los Angeles Rams in 1951. . . . Pittsburgh Steelers E Elbie Nickel (Cincinnati's second-leading scorer in 1942 also earned hoops letter in 1947) caught two touchdown passes in a 30-13 win against the Los Angeles Rams in 1956. . . . St. Louis Rams rookie LB Tommy Polley (played in one basketball game for Florida State in 1996-97 under coach Pat Kennedy) had 11 solo tackles in a 35-6 win against the Atlanta Falcons in 2001. . . . Buffalo Bills TE Tom Rychlec (collected four points and six rebounds in one hoops game for American International MA in 1954-55) opened the game's scoring with a touchdown reception from Jack Kemp in 23-14 win against the Dallas Texans in 1962. . . . New York Giants DB Otto Schnellbacher (averaged 11 ppg in four-year Kansas career, earning All-Big Six/Seven Conference honors each season) returned an interception 46 yards for touchdown in 14-0 win against the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1951. . . . Washington Redskins QB Norm Snead (averaged 7.8 ppg in four Wake Forest games as senior in 1960-61) threw two first-half touchdown passes in a 37-14 setback against the Philadelphia Eagles in 1962. . . . Dallas Cowboys QB Roger Staubach (Navy varsity hooper in 1962-63) threw three touchdown passes in a 28-7 win against the New York Giants in 1979. . . . Houston Oilers CB Greg Stemrick (played in two basketball games for Colorado State in 1973-74) returned an interception 50 yards in a 14-7 setback against the Cleveland Browns in 1979. . . . Baltimore Ravens DE Adalius Thomas (averaged 2.9 ppg and 1.9 rpg for Southern Mississippi in 1996-97 and 1997-98) had 1 1/2 sacks, five solo tackles and forced two fumbles in a 39-27 win against the Indianapolis Colts in 2001. . . . Minnesota Vikings DB Charlie West (collected two points and one rebound in two UTEP games in 1967-68 under coach Don Haskins) returned a kickoff 42 yards in a 27-0 setback against the Cincinnati Bengals in 1973. . . . San Francisco 49ers E Billy Wilson (averaged 3.3 ppg as senior letterman for San Jose State in 1950-51) caught two touchdown passes from Y.A. Tittle (one for 77 yards) in a 20-17 win against the Baltimore Colts in 1956. . . . Boston Redskins B Doug Wycoff (Georgia Tech hoops letterman in 1926) opened the game's scoring with a 45-yard touchdown pass to Cliff Battles (four seasons of varsity hoops for West Virginia Wesleyan) in 13-3 win against the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1934.
3: Kansas City Chiefs LB Bobby Bell (first African-American hooper for Minnesota in 1960-61) returned an interception 61 yards for touchdown in 24-21 win against the Denver Broncos in 1972. . . . Philadelphia Eagles WR Harold Carmichael (starter two seasons for Southern LA averaged 9.8 ppg and 10.6 rpg in 1969-70) caught two first-half touchdown passes (56 and 21 yards) from Ron Jaworski in a 28-27 setback against the Minnesota Vikings in 1978. . . . Miami Dolphins WR Chris Chambers (played hoops briefly for Wisconsin under coach Dick Bennett in 1997-98) caught eight passes for 121 yards in a 24-10 setback against the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2006. . . . Los Angeles Rams rookie RB Glenn Davis (Army hooper in 1944-45 and 1945-46) scored two second-quarter touchdowns (one rushing/one receiving) in a 51-14 win against the Green Bay Packers in 1950. . . . Miami Dolphins DE Vern Den Herder (finished Central College IA career in 1970-71 as school's all-time leading scorer and rebounder) returned an interception 24 yards in 37-21 win against the New England Patriots in 1972. . . . Kansas City Chiefs TE Tony Gonzalez (averaged 6.4 ppg and 4.3 rpg for California from 1994-95 through 1996-97) caught nine passes - including two touchdowns - in a 31-28 setback against the Cleveland Browns in 2006. . . . Washington Redskins DB Dale Hackbart (averaged 4 ppg and 3.5 rpg in 10 contests for Wisconsin in 1958-59) had two interceptions in a 38-24 setback against the St. Louis Cardinals in 1961. . . . Philadelphia Eagles QB King Hill (Rice hoops letterman in 1955-56 and 1956-57) punted nine times for 432 yards (48.0 average) in a 35-24 win against the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1961. . . . Minnesota Vikings QB Joe Kapp (backup forward averaged 1.8 ppg and 1.2 rpg for California's PCC champions in 1957 and 1958) threw two second-half touchdown passes in a 30-27 setback against the Green Bay Packers in 1967. . . . Detroit Lions QB Bobby Layne (Texas hooper in 1944-45) threw three touchdown passes (82, 67 and 32 yards) in a 45-21 win against the Baltimore Colts in 1950. Lions E Cloyce Box (combined with twin brother Boyce to help West Texas win Border Conference hoop championship in 1943) had four touchdowns among his 12 pass receptions for 302 yards. In 1961 with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Layne threw three TD passes in a 35-24 setback against the Philadelphia Eagles. . . . Cleveland Rams rookie B Bill Lazetich (three-year Montana hoops letterman in late 1930s) opened the game's scoring with a five-yard touchdown catch in 35-13 win against the Philadelphia Eagles in 1939. . . . Cleveland Browns WR Dave Logan (three-time scoring runner-up averaged 14.1 ppg and 6.3 rpg for Colorado in mid-1970s) caught two touchdown passes from Brian Sipe in a 47-24 setback against the Seattle Seahawks in 1978. . . . Philadelphia Eagles B Fran Murray (All-EIL first-team guard for Penn in 1935-36 and 1936-37) caught a 45-yard touchdown pass from Dave O'Brien in 35-13 setback against the Cleveland Rams in 1939. . . . Oakland Raiders WR Art Powell (averaged 10.5 ppg and 8.2 rpg for San Jose State in 1956-57) caught two touchdown passes from Tom Flores (32 and 31 yards) in a 28-28 tie against the New York Jets in 1966. . . . Minnesota Vikings WR Jerry Reichow (Iowa hooper in 1954-55) caught two touchdown passes from Fran Tarkenton - including one of them for 51 yards - in a 42-21 win against the Los Angeles Rams in 1961. . . . Chicago Bears QB Gene Ronzani (among Marquette's top four scorers in 1931-32 and 1932-33) threw three touchdown passes in a 49-7 win against the Chicago Cardinals in 1944. . . . Philadelphia Eagles QB Norm Snead (averaged 7.8 ppg in four Wake Forest games as senior in 1960-61) threw four touchdown passes in a 35-35 tie against the Washington Redskins in 1967. Six years earlier with the Washington Redskins, Snead threw a 60-yard TD pass to WR Tom Osborne (scored 1,291 points for Hastings NE during last half of 1950s) in a 38-24 setback against the St. Louis Cardinals in 1961. . . . Dallas Cowboys QB Roger Staubach (Navy varsity hooper in 1962-63) threw two second-half touchdown passes in a 17-10 win against the New England Patriots in 1978. . . . Rookie WR Dave Stief (hoop teammate of Portland State All-American Freeman Williams in 1977-78) caught 53-yard touchdown pass from Jim Hart in the fourth quarter to give the St. Louis Cardinals a 21-14 win against the Detroit Lions in 1978. . . . Miami Dolphins DE Jason Taylor (averaged 8 ppg and 5.4 rpg for Akron in 1994-95) had three sacks in a 33-6 win against the Buffalo Bills in 2000. . . . Detroit Lions rookie HB Doak Walker (SMU hoops letterman as freshman in 1945-46) rushed for two touchdowns in a 45-21 win against the Baltimore Colts in 1950.
4: Chicago Bears TE Martellus Bennett (averaged 1.9 ppg and 1.5 rpg as Texas A&M freshman in 2005-06 before playing briefly next season under coach Billy Gillispie) had a career-high 12 pass receptions in 41-28 setback against the Dallas Cowboys in 2014. . . . Cleveland Browns FB Jim Brown (#2-scorer with 14 ppg for Syracuse as sophomore in 1954-55 before averaging 11.3 as junior) rushed for 135 yards on 15 carries and caught two passes for 64 yards in a 27-16 win against the Washington Redskins in 1960. . . . Miami Dolphins WR Chris Chambers (played hoops briefly for Wisconsin under coach Dick Bennett in 1997-98) caught 15 passes for 238 yards in a 24-23 win against the Buffalo Bills in 2005. . . . Portsmouth Spartans TB Dutch Clark (four-time All-Rocky Mountain Conference hoops choice for Colorado College) rushed for two touchdowns in a 19-0 win against the Green Bay Packers in 1932. . . . Chicago Bears LB George Connor (Holy Cross hoops letterman in 1943 and 1944 before averaging 2.5 ppg as Notre Dame center in 1946-47) recovered a fumble and returned it 48 yards for touchdown in 21-20 win against the Detroit Lions in 1955. . . . Buffalo Bills LB London Fletcher (started two games for St. Francis PA as freshman in 1993-94 before transferring to John Carroll OH) had two sacks in a 24-23 setback against the Miami Dolphins in 2005. . . . Kansas City Chiefs TE Tony Gonzalez (averaged 6.4 ppg and 4.3 rpg for California from 1994-95 through 1996-97) caught 11 passes for 147 yards in a 30-24 setback against the New England Patriots in 2000. . . . Cleveland Browns QB Otto Graham (Big Ten Conference runner-up in scoring as Northwestern sophomore in 1941-42 and junior in 1942-43) threw two touchdown passes (51 and 49 yards) in a 31-21 playoff win against the Buffalo Bills in 1949. . . . New York Giants TB Hinkey Haines (Lebanon Valley PA transfer earned hoops letter for Penn State in 1920 and 1921) returned a kickoff 75 yards for touchdown in 14-0 win against the New York Yankees in 1927. . . . Oakland Raiders rookie WR Charlie Hardy (played in nine hoops games for San Jose State in 1954-55) caught four passes for 123 yards in a 41-17 setback against the Los Angeles Chargers in 1960. It was the first of three consecutive contests during the month where Hardy had a touchdown reception. . . . Green Bay Packers RB Paul Hornung (averaged 6.1 ppg in 10 contests for Notre Dame in 1954-55) scored two second-half touchdowns in a 41-13 win against the Chicago Bears in 1960. . . . San Diego Chargers WR Vincent Jackson (Northern Colorado's scoring leader with 13.6 ppg in 2003-04 while also contributing 5.6 rpg and 3.1 apg) caught five passes for 148 yards in a 34-7 win against the Oakland Raiders in 2008. . . . Chicago Bears E Luke Johnsos (Northwestern hoops letterman in 1927 and 1928) accounted for the game's only score with a 29-yard touchdown pass from Keith Molesworth (three-year hoops letterman for Monmouth IL in late 1920s) in a 6-0 win against the New York Giants in 1932. . . . Atlanta Falcons CB Rolland Lawrence (captain of Tabor KS hoops squad as senior in 1972-73) had an interception and returned punt 23 yards in 16-10 setback against the New England Patriots in 1977. . . . New York Bulldogs QB Bobby Layne (Texas hooper in 1944-45) threw three touchdown passes in a 28-27 setback against the Detroit Lions in 1949. . . . New York Giants DE George Martin (Oregon hoops teammate of freshman sensation Ron Lee in 1972-73) had three sacks in a 44-7 win against the Phoenix Cardinals in 1988. . . . Buffalo Bills HB Chet Mutryn (Xavier hoops letterman in 1943) caught two touchdown passes from George Ratterman (third-leading scorer with 11.7 ppg for Notre Dame in 1944-45) in a 31-21 setback against the Cleveland Browns in 1949 AAFC playoff game. Ratterman finished with three TD passes. . . . Washington Redskins rookie WR Tom Osborne (scored 1,291 points for Hastings NE during last half of 1950s) had a career-high six pass receptions in 27-16 setback against the Cleveland Browns in 1960. . . . New York Yankees E Barney Poole (Ole Miss hoops letterman in 1943) had a 15-yard pass reception in 17-7 playoff setback against the San Francisco 49ers in 1949. Yankees DB Otto Schnellbacher (averaged 11 ppg in four-year Kansas career, earning All-Big Six/Seven Conference honors each season) returned three punts for 34 yards. . . . New York Titans WR Art Powell (averaged 10.5 ppg and 8.2 rpg for San Jose State in 1956-57) had three touchdown catches in a 30-27 win against the Denver Broncos in 1960. Broncos S Al Romine (four-year hoops letterman from 1951-52 through 1954-55 for Florence State AL) returned an interception 13 yards and SE Lionel Taylor (led New Mexico Highlands in scoring average with 13.6 ppg in 1955-56 and 20.3 in 1956-57) had 11 pass receptions - including two second-half TDs from Frank Tripucka. . . . Dallas Cowboys QB Roger Staubach (Navy varsity hooper in 1962-63) threw three touchdown passes in a 52-10 win against the New York Jets in 1971. . . . In 1960, New York Giants HB Ed Sutton (seven hoop games for North Carolina as sophomore in 1954-55) rushed for 62 yards on seven carries in a 31-31 tie against the Dallas Cowboys after rushing for 57 yards on five carries in 31-23 setback against the Philadelphia Eagles the previous week. . . .Baltimore Ravens LB Adalius Thomas (averaged 2.9 ppg and 1.9 rpg for Southern Mississippi in 1996-97 and 1997-98) scored a fourth-quarter touchdown on 20-yard interception return in 16-15 win against the Houston Texans in 2005.
5: Washington Redskins RB Cliff Battles (four seasons of varsity hoops for West Virginia Wesleyan) rushed for two first-quarter touchdowns in a 49-14 win against the New York Giants in 1937. Giants TB Ed Danowski (Fordham hoops letterman in 1932-33) threw two touchdown passes. . . . Philadelphia Eagles E Tony Bova (St. Francis PA hoops letterman in 1942) caught two touchdown passes (48 and 13 yards en route to leading league with 24.6-yd average) in a 38-28 setback against the Green Bay Packers in 1943. . . . In 1937, Chicago Bears QB Ray Buivid (Marquette hoops letterman in 1935-36) became the first rookie to throw five touchdown passes in a single NFL game (42-28 nod over Chicago Cardinals). . . . Oakland Raiders WR Ronald Curry (averaged 4.2 ppg, 2.5 rpg and 3 apg for North Carolina in 1998-99 and 2000-01) caught nine passes for 141 yards - including two touchdowns from Kerry Collins - in a 34-27 setback against the Kansas City Chiefs in 2004. . . . Pittsburgh Steelers TB Ray Evans (two-time All-American was four-year letterman and second-leading scorer for Kansas in 1942 NCAA Tournament) opened the game's scoring with a nine-yard rushing touchdown in 38-28 win against the New York Giants in 1948. . . . Los Angeles Dons rookie WR Len Ford (center for Morgan State's CIAA hoops titlist in 1944) caught two touchdown passes from Glenn Dobbs in a 38-21 setback against the San Francisco 49ers in 1948. . . . New York Giants' Dave Jennings (forward averaged 5.9 ppg for St. Lawrence NY in 1972-73 and 1973-74) punted four times for 55.3-yard average in 17-14 win against the Houston Oilers in 1982. Giants DE George Martin (Oregon hoops teammate of freshman sensation Ron Lee in 1972-73) had three sacks. . . . Washington Redskins QB Billy Kilmer (UCLA hooper under legendary coach John Wooden in 1959-60) threw three touchdown passes in a 37-16 win against the New York Jets in 1976. . . . Chicago Cardinals E Mal Kutner (two-year Texas hoops letterman in early 1940s) had two of his league-high 14 pass reception touchdowns in a 42-7 win against the Green Bay Packers in 1948. . . . Philadelphia Eagles rookie QB Donovan McNabb (averaged 2.3 points in 18 games for Syracuse in 1995-96 and 1996-97) threw two second-quarter touchdown passes in a 21-17 setback against the Arizona Cardinals in 1999. Five years later, McNabb completed 32-of-43 passes - including five TDs - in a 47-17 win against the Green Bay Packers in 2004. WR Terrell Owens (UTC hooper from 1993-94 through 1995-96 started five games) had eight of McNabb's 32 pass completions for 161 yards. Five years earlier with the San Francisco 49ers, Owens caught nine passes for 145 yards in a 44-30 setback against the Cincinnati Bengals in 1999. . . . Philadelphia Eagles B Dom Moselle (leading hoops scorer for Wisconsin-Superior in 1947-48 and 1948-49) had a career-high 46 rushing yards in 13-13 tie against the Detroit Lions in 1954. . . . San Diego Chargers rookie WR Robert Reed (averaged 1.9 ppg in 18 contests for Arkansas' 1995 NCAA Tournament runner-up under coach Nolan Richardson) caught one pass from QB Jim Harbaugh and returned three punts for 49 yards in a 23-10 win against the Cleveland Browns in 1999. . . . Philadelphia Eagles QB Norm Snead (averaged 7.8 ppg in four Wake Forest games as senior in 1960-61) passed for 320 yards in a 21-19 setback against the Dallas Cowboys in 1965. . . . Denver Broncos SE Lionel Taylor (led New Mexico Highlands in scoring average with 13.6 ppg in 1955-56 and 20.3 in 1956-57) had eight pass receptions for 164 yards in a 24-13 setback against the Oakland Raiders in 1965. . . . New York Giants LB Brad Van Pelt (averaged 4.5 ppg and 2.9 rpg while shooting 61.7% from floor as Michigan State sophomore in 1970-71) had two interceptions in a 24-10 win against the Detroit Lions in 1976. . . . Cincinnati Bengals DE Alfred Williams (Colorado hooper in 1989-90) supplied a safety by tackling Steve Young in the end zone in 21-8 setback against the San Francisco 49ers in 1993.
6: San Francisco 49ers RB Joe Arenas (averaged 6.2 ppg in 1949-50 and 1950-51 for Nebraska-Omaha) rushed for two touchdowns against the Green Bay Packers to finish the 1953 campaign with seven TDs. . . . Boston Braves RB Cliff Battles (four seasons of varsity hoops for West Virginia Wesleyan) scored a touchdown on 74-yard punt return in 14-0 win against the New York Giants in 1936. . . . Cleveland Browns E Pete Brewster (forward-center was Purdue's fourth-leading scorer as junior and senior) caught three first-half touchdown passes (22, 23 and 36 yards) in a 62-14 win against the New York Giants in 1953. Browns QB George Ratterman (third-leading scorer with 11.7 ppg for Notre Dame in 1944-45) threw three TD passes. . . . FB Rick Casares (Florida's scoring and rebounding leader both seasons as All-SEC second-team selection in 1951-52 and 1952-53) rushed for all four of the Chicago Bears' touchdowns in a 27-21 win against the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1959. . . . Indianapolis Colts DE Sam Clancy (two-time Eastern 8 first-team selection ended career in 1981 as Pittsburgh's all-time leading rebounder) had 2 1/2 sacks in a 6-0 win against the New England Patriots in 1992. . . . San Diego Chargers TE Antonio Gates (second-team All-MAC selection in 2002 when Kent State finished runner-up in South Regional) caught eight passes for 167 yards in a 30-23 win against the Cleveland Browns in 2009. . . . Green Bay Packers RB Paul Hornung (averaged 6.1 ppg in 10 contests for Notre Dame in 1954-55) threw two first-half touchdown passes to Boyd Dowler (26 and 30 yards) in a 38-20 win against the Los Angeles Rams in 1959. . . . St. Louis Cardinals QB Charley Johnson (transferred from Schreiner J.C. to New Mexico State to play hoops before concentrating on football) threw two second-quarter touchdown passes and contributed a pair of one-yard plunges for TDs in a 28-19 win against the Cleveland Browns in 1964. . . . San Francisco 49ers DB Ronnie Lott (USC hooper as junior in 1979-80) had two interceptions in a 23-12 win against the Green Bay Packers in 1987. . . . Pittsburgh Steelers QB Bill Mackrides (Nevada-Reno hoops letterman in 1944) passed for one fourth-quarter touchdown to Elbie Nickel (Cincinnati's second-leading scorer in 1942 also earned hoops letter in 1947) and rushed for another TD in a 21-17 win against the Chicago Cardinals in 1953. . . . Cleveland Browns WR Evan Moore (Stanford hooper in 2003-04 and 2004-05) had a career-high six pass receptions in his pro debut, a 30-23 setback against the San Diego Chargers in 2009. . . . A fourth-quarter touchdown catch by WR Art Powell (averaged 10.5 ppg and 8.2 rpg for San Jose State in 1956-57) gave the Oakland Raiders a 16-13 win against the Buffalo Bills in 1964. . . . Pittsburgh Steelers rookie WR Dave Smith (averaged 15.6 ppg and 11.6 rpg while shooting 51.1% from floor for Indiana PA in 1968-69 and 1969-70) caught an 87-yard touchdown pass from Terry Bradshaw in 20-12 setback against the Green Bay Packers in 1970. . . . Denver Broncos WR Rod Smith (swingman was Missouri Southern State hoops letterman as sophomore in 1990-91) caught eight passes for 165 yards in a 35-31 win against the Kansas City Chiefs in 1998. . . . Kansas City Chiefs WR Otis Taylor (backup small forward for Prairie View A&M) scored two touchdowns (46-yard pass reception and 25-yard rush) in a 26-17 win against the San Francisco 49ers in 1971. . . . Denver Broncos rookie WR Cedric Tillman (averaged 4.3 ppg and 2.6 rpg while serving as part-time starter for Alcorn State in 1990-91) had a career-long 81-yard touchdown reception in 31-27 setback against the Dallas Cowboys in 1992. . . . Providence Steam Roller rookie TB Cy Wentworth (New Hampshire hoops letterman in 1922 and 1923) opened the game's scoring with a 20-yard rushing touchdown in 13-10 setback against the Green Bay Packers in 1925.
7: St. Louis Cardinals DE Bubba Baker (averaged 4.1 ppg and 3.5 rpg as forward-center for Colorado State from 1974-75 through 1977-78) posted 2 1/2 sacks against the Philadelphia Eagles in a 10-10 tie in 1986. . . . Washington Redskins QB Sammy Baugh (TCU three-year hoops letterman was All-SWC honorable mention selection as senior in 1936-37) threw three touchdown passes in a 20-14 win against the Philadelphia Eagles in 1941. . . . Detroit Lions WR Marlin Briscoe (averaged 9.5 ppg and 3.6 rpg for Nebraska-Omaha in 1964-65) caught two second-half touchdown passes in a 25-21 setback against the Chicago Bears in 1975. Briscoe finished the game with five catches for 119 yards. . . . New York Giants rookie E Ed Crawford (Ole Miss hoops letterman averaged 2.8 ppg and 5.3 rpg in eight games in 1954-55) had a 27-yard pass reception in 21-10 setback against the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1957. . . . Washington Redskins LB London Fletcher (started two games for St. Francis PA as freshman in 1993-94 before transferring to John Carroll OH) had at least 10 tackles for the second consecutive contest in 2008. . . . Cleveland Browns QB Otto Graham (Big Ten Conference runner-up in scoring as Northwestern sophomore in 1941-42 and junior in 1942-43) threw three touchdown passes in a 42-0 win against the Baltimore Colts in 1947. . . . Philadelphia Eagles E Bud Grant (third-leading scorer for Minnesota in 1948-49 after named team MVP previous season over first-team All-American Jim McIntyre) caught two touchdown passes in a 38-21 win against the Dallas Texans in 1952. . . . Dallas Cowboys SS Cornell Green (Utah State's all-time leading scorer and rebounder when career ended in 1961-62) had two interceptions in a 41-17 win against the Cleveland Browns in 1974. . . . E Red Hickey (three-time All-SWC selection and member of Arkansas' 1941 Final Four team) caught a 20-yard touchdown pass from Bob Waterfield in the fourth quarter to give the Los Angeles Rams a 17-14 win against the Chicago Bears in 1947. . . . Tampa Bay Buccaneers WR Vincent Jackson (Northern Colorado's scoring leader with 13.6 ppg in 2003-04 while also contributing 5.6 rpg and 3.1 apg) caught 10 passes for 159 yards in a 34-17 setback against the Detroit Lions in 2014. . . . Chicago Cardinals FB Bert Johnson (played one game in 1934-35 under legendary Kentucky coach Adolph Rupp) had a 26-yard touchdown reception in 34-24 setback against the Chicago Bears in 1941. . . . Tampa Bay Buccaneers QB Brad Johnson (part-time starting forward for Florida State as freshman in 1987-88 when averaging 5.9 ppg and shooting 89.1% from free-throw line) threw two second-quarter touchdown passes in a 14-7 win against the New Orleans Saints in 2003. . . . Chicago Bears E Luke Johnsos (Northwestern hoops letterman in 1927 and 1928) caught two touchdown passes from Red Grange (21 and 30 yards) in a 21-0 win against the Green Bay Packers in 1930. . . . Washington Redskins QB Billy Kilmer (UCLA hooper under legendary coach John Wooden in 1959-60) passed for 320 yards and three touchdowns in a 30-27 win against the Atlanta Falcons in 1975. . . . Chicago Cardinals E-DB Mal Kutner (two-year Texas hoops letterman in early 1940s) scored two fourth-quarter touchdowns - including 56-yard interception return - in a 45-21 win against the Philadelphia Eagles in 1947. . . . Washington Redskins DB Joe Lavender (averaged 13.4 ppg and 6.6 rpg for San Diego State in 1969-70 and 1970-71) had three interceptions - returning one 51 yards for touchdown - in a 40-17 win against the San Diego Chargers in 1980. . . . Detroit Lions QB Bobby Layne (Texas hooper in 1944-45) threw four touchdown passes in a 45-21 win against the Chicago Bears in 1952. Three of league-high 15 TD receptions for Lions E Cloyce Box (combined with twin brother Boyce to help West Texas win Border Conference hoop championship in 1943) each was at least 25 yards in the first half. Six years later with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Layne threw two second-half TD passes - including a 28-yarder to E Cy McClairen (two-time all-league selection scored 36 points for Bethune-Cookman in 1953 SIAC Tournament championship game) - in a 14-14 tie against the Washington Redskins in 1958. . . . Cleveland Rams HB Bill Lund (hooper for Case Western Reserve OH) scored two second-half touchdowns - including a 63-yard run from scrimmage - in a 42-0 win against the Baltimore Colts in 1947. . . . New York Giants WR Bob McChesney (Hardin-Simmons TX hoops letterman in 1945-46) caught a career-long 72-yard touchdown pass from Kyle Rote in 27-17 setback against the Washington Redskins in 1952. Redskins E Hugh Taylor (OCU leading scorer with 11.4 ppg as senior in 1947) caught three touchdown passes from Eddie LeBaron. . . . Philadelphia Eagles QB Donovan McNabb (averaged 2.3 points in 18 games for Syracuse in 1995-96 and 1996-97) threw three touchdown passes in a 36-10 win against the Dallas Cowboys in 2003. . . . Houston Oilers CB Zeke Moore (Lincoln MO hoops letterman in mid-1960s) returned an interception 74 yards in a 27-13 win against the San Francisco 49ers in 1975. It was Moore's first of three INTs in as many games to close the season. . . . San Francisco 49ers WR Terrell Owens (UTC hooper from 1993-94 through 1995-96 started five games) caught two first-half touchdown passes from Jeff Garcia in a 50-14 win against the Arizona Cardinals in 2003. . . . Dallas Cowboys RB Preston Pearson (swingman averaged 8.7 ppg and 6 rpg as Illinois senior in 1966-67) had eight pass receptions in a 31-17 setback against the St. Louis Cardinals in 1975. . . . Cleveland Browns RB Greg Pruitt (Oklahoma frosh hooper in 1969-70) had 10 pass receptions - including go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter - in a 17-14 win against the New York Jets in 1980. . . . Chicago Rockets B Ray Ramsey (Bradley's top scorer in 1941-42 and 1942-43) had an 80-yard touchdown reception in 34-14 setback against the Los Angeles Dons in 1947. . . . Buffalo Bills rookie QB George Ratterman (third-leading scorer with 11.7 ppg for Notre Dame in 1944-45) threw three touchdown passes in a 21-21 tie against the San Francisco 49ers in 1947. . . . Denver Broncos WR Rod Smith (swingman was Missouri Southern State hoops letterman as sophomore in 1990-91) caught two first-half touchdown passes from John Elway (37 and 25 yards) in a 35-24 setback against the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1997. . . . Dallas Cowboys QB Roger Staubach (Navy varsity hooper in 1962-63) threw three touchdown passes in a 41-17 win against the Cleveland Browns in 1974. . . . Minnesota Vikings DB Charlie West (collected two points and one rebound in two UTEP games in 1967-68 under Don Haskins) returned a kickoff 78 yards in 20-13 win against the Los Angeles Rams in 1969. . . . San Francisco 49ers E Billy Wilson (averaged 3.3 ppg as senior letterman for San Jose State in 1950-51) caught two first-quarter touchdown passes from Y.A. Tittle (44 and 22 yards) in a 48-21 win against the Green Bay Packers in 1958.
8: Cleveland Browns DB Erich Barnes (played hoops briefly for Purdue as sophomore in 1955-56) returned an interception 40 yards for touchdown in 24-21 win against the Washington Redskins in 1968. . . . Kansas City Chiefs LB Bobby Bell (first African-American hooper for Minnesota in 1960-61) had two interceptions in a 40-3 win against the San Diego Chargers in 1968. . . . Cleveland Browns TE Jordan Cameron (redshirt freshman forward for BYU in 2006-07 before playing briefly for Southern California in 2008-09 under coach Tim Floyd) had nine pass receptions for 121 yards in a 27-26 setback against the New England Patriots in 2013. . . . Kansas City Chiefs QB Len Dawson (Purdue hooper in 1956-57) threw three first-half touchdown passes - including a 68-yarder to Frank Pitts - in a 40-3 win against the San Diego Chargers in 1968. . . . New Orleans Saints TE Jimmy Graham (part-time starter for Miami FL averaged 4.2 ppg and 4.2 rpg from 2005-06 through 2008-09) caught two of his NFL-high 16 touchdown passes from Drew Brees in a 31-13 win against the Carolina Panthers in 2013. . . . Denver Broncos DB Charlie Greer (played seven basketball games for Colorado in 1965-66 as sophomore) had two interceptions in a 33-27 setback against the Oakland Raiders in 1968. . . . Miami Dolphins QB Bob Griese (sophomore guard for Purdue in 1964-65) threw two second-quarter touchdown passes in a 38-7 win against the Boston Patriots in 1968. . . . Los Angeles Rams E Red Hickey (three-time All-SWC selection and member of Arkansas' 1941 Final Four team) caught two second-half touchdown passes from Bob Waterfield in a 38-17 win against the Green Bay Packers in 1946. . . . Los Angeles Rams E Elroy "Crazy Legs" Hirsch (starting center for Michigan hoops in 1944) had two touchdown catches in a 42-17 win against the Green Bay Packers in 1957. . . . Minnesota Vikings QB Brad Johnson (part-time starting forward for Florida State as freshman in 1987-88 when averaging 5.9 ppg and shooting 89.1% from free-throw line) threw three touchdown passes in a 24-22 win against the Detroit Lions in 1996. Six years later with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Johnson threw four TD passes in a 34-10 win against the Atlanta Falcons in 2002. . . . St. Louis Cardinals QB Charley Johnson (transferred from Schreiner J.C. to New Mexico State to play hoops before concentrating on football) passed for 315 yards - including four touchdowns (three for more than 40 yards) - in a 38-14 win against the Philadelphia Eagles in 1963. . . . Phoenix Cardinals RB Johnny Johnson (averaged 11.2 ppg, 6.5 rpg and 3.2 apg in 1988-89 after majority of hoop team members walked off San Jose State squad) rushed for two second-quarter touchdowns in a 20-14 setback against the Washington Redskins in 1991. . . . Baltimore Ravens WR Jacoby Jones (part-time starter averaged 3.4 ppg and 3.7 rpg for Lane TN in 2004-05 and 2005-06) returned a kickoff 77 yards for touchdown in 29-26 win against the Minnesota Vikings in 2013. . . . Minnesota Vikings QB Joe Kapp (backup forward averaged 1.8 ppg and 1.2 rpg for California's PCC champions in 1957 and 1958) rushed for two touchdowns in a 30-20 win against the San Francisco 49ers in 1968. Vikings rookie DB Charlie West (collected two points and one rebound in two UTEP games in 1967-68 under Don Haskins) returned three kickoffs for 120 yards. . . . Frankford Yellow Jackets E Chuck Kassel (Illinois hoops letterman in 1925 and 1926) contributed the game's lone touchdown with a 10-yard pass reception in 7-0 win against the New York Giants in 1928. . . . Cleveland Rams rookie HB Bill Lund (hooper for Case Western Reserve OH) opened the game's scoring with a 22-yard touchdown reception in 66-14 win against the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1946. . . . Baltimore Colts rookie TE John Mackey (Syracuse hooper in 1960-61) caught two touchdown passes from Johnny Unitas (61 and 27 yards) in a 41-10 win against the Minnesota Vikings in 1963. . . . Rookie E Eggs Manske (point guard led Northwestern to share of 1933 Big Ten Conference crown) supplied the Philadelphia Eagles' only score with a pass reception touchdown in 13-6 setback against the Green Bay Packers in 1935. . . . Buffalo Bills TE Keith McKeller (starting center for Jacksonville State's 1985 NCAA Division II championship team led Gulf South Conference in rebounding each of his first three seasons and finished second as senior) had 10 pass receptions in a 30-27 win against the Oakland Raiders in 1991. . . . B Keith Molesworth (three-year hoops letterman for Monmouth IL in late 1920s) rushed for both of the game's touchdowns to power the Chicago Bears to a 13-0 win against the Chicago Cardinals in 1935. . . . San Francisco 49ers WR Terrell Owens (UTC hooper from 1993-94 through 1995-96 started five games) had 12 pass receptions - including two fourth-quarter touchdowns from Jeff Garcia (including game winner with 12 seconds remaining) in a 31-27 win against the Dallas Cowboys in 2002. . . . Arizona Cardinals rookie WR Nate Poole (sank all four free-throw attempts in two basketball games for Marshall in 1997-98) provided a career-high six pass receptions - including touchdown from Jake Plummer - in 23-20 win against the Detroit Lions in 2002. . . . Oakland Raiders WR Art Powell (averaged 10.5 ppg and 8.2 rpg for San Jose State in 1956-57) had three touchdown catches in a 41-27 win against the San Diego Chargers in 1963. . . . Pittsburgh Steelers rookie WR Antwaan Randle El (member of Indiana's 1999 NCAA Tournament team) had a career-high eight pass receptions in a 24-6 setback against the Houston Texans in 2002. . . . Washington Redskins QB Norm Snead (averaged 7.8 ppg in four Wake Forest games as senior in 1960-61) passed for 350 yards - including three touchdowns - in a 34-21 setback against the Baltimore Colts in 1962. Six years later with the Philadelphia Eagles, Snead threw three TD passes in a 29-17 win against the New Orleans Saints in 1968. . . . Los Angeles Rams rookie HB Jack Wilson (Baylor hoops letterman in 1942) caught a 13-yard touchdown pass from Bob Waterfield in 38-17 win against the Green Bay Packers in 1946. . . . Philadelphia Eagles QB Roy Zimmerman (San Jose State hoops letterman as center in 1938 and 1939) threw three touchdown passes in a 40-14 win against the Boston Yanks in 1946. One of them was a 59-yarder to HB Bosh Pritchard (four-sport letterman for VMI. Six years earlier with the Washington Redskins as a rookie, Zimmerman returned a kickoff 37 yards and had a 61-yard punt in a 73-0 setback against the Chicago Bears in the 1940 NFL championship game. Bears B Ray Nolting (Cincinnati hoops letterman in 1936) had a 23-yard rushing TD in the title tilt. Ray Flaherty (four-sport Gonzaga athlete including hoops) coached the Redskins.
9: Minnesota Vikings WR Tom Adams (two-time All-MIAC honoree set Minnesota-Duluth single-season mark for rebounds with 367 as senior in 1961-62) caught two passes from Fran Tarkenton for 45 yards in a 37-23 setback against the Detroit Lions in 1962. . . . San Francisco 49ers rookie RB Joe Arenas (averaged 6.2 ppg in 1949-50 and 1950-51 for Nebraska-Omaha) rushed for two touchdowns against the Green Bay Packers in 1951. . . . Minnesota Vikings LB Matt Blair (played in 1970 NJCAA Tournament for Northeastern Oklahoma A&M hoops team finishing in seventh place) intercepted two passes in a 10-3 win against the Buffalo Bills in 1979. . . . Minnesota Vikings rookie QB Todd Bouman (South Dakota State transfer averaged 7.1 ppg and 3.3 rpg for St. Cloud State MN from 1993-94 through 1995-96) passed for 348 yards and four touchdowns in a 42-24 win against the Tennessee Titans in 2001. . . . Philadelphia Eagles WR Harold Carmichael (starter two seasons for Southern LA averaged 9.8 ppg and 10.6 rpg in 1969-70) had five of his NFL-high 67 pass receptions for 146 of his NFL-high 1,116 yards in a 24-23 win against the New York Jets in 1973. . . . Philadelphia Eagles CB Jimmy Carr (three-year hoops letterman for Morris Harvey WV appeared in NAIA Tournament in 1953 and 1954) had an interception in his second straight game in 1962. . . . New York Giants rookie TB Ed Danowski (Fordham hoops letterman in 1932-33) had a game-high 83 passing yards and chipped in with 59 rushing yards (including fourth-quarter touchdown) in 30-13 win against the Chicago Bears in the 1934 NFL championship contest. Giants E Ray Flaherty (four-sport Gonzaga athlete including hoops) had two pass receptions for 28 yards in his second straight NFL title tilt. Bears B Keith Molesworth (three-year hoops letterman for Monmouth IL in late 1920s) completed 4-of-9 passes, returned four punts for 67 yards and punted nine times for 40.7-yard average. Bears B Gene Ronzani (among Marquette's top four scorers in 1931-32 and 1932-33) caught one pass for 23 yards and returned an interception 16 yards. . . . Chicago Bears TE Mike Ditka (averaged 2.8 ppg and 2.6 rpg for Pittsburgh in 1958-59 and 1959-60) caught six passes for 155 yards in a 30-14 win against the Los Angeles Rams in 1962. . . . Miami Dolphins QB Bob Griese (sophomore guard for Purdue in 1964-65) threw two first-quarter touchdown passes in a 28-10 win against the Detroit Lions in 1979. . . . Tampa Bay Buccaneers WR Vincent Jackson (Northern Colorado's scoring leader with 13.6 ppg in 2003-04 while also contributing 5.6 rpg and 3.1 apg) caught six passes for 131 yards in a 23-21 setback against the Philadelphia Eagles in 2012. . . . Tampa Bay Buccaneers QB Brad Johnson (part-time starting forward for Florida State as freshman in 1987-88 when averaging 5.9 ppg and shooting 89.1% from free-throw line) passed for 305 yards in a 15-12 win against the Detroit Lions in 2001. . . . St. Louis Cardinals QB Charley Johnson (transferred from Schreiner J.C. to New Mexico State to play hoops before concentrating on football) passed for 302 yards and five touchdowns (two for more than 70 yards) in a 52-20 win against the Dallas Cowboys in 1962. . . . Washington Redskins QB Billy Kilmer (UCLA hooper under legendary coach John Wooden in 1959-60) threw three second-half touchdown passes in a 34-24 setback against the Dallas Cowboys in 1972. Two years later, Kilmer threw three second-quarter TD passes in a 23-17 win against the Los Angeles Rams in 1974. . . . Chicago Bears QB Johnny Lujack (averaged 3.4 ppg as starting guard for Notre Dame in 1943-44) rushed for three touchdowns and rookie HB Brad Rowland (four-sport participant for McMurry TX in late 1940s and early 1950s) rushed twice for 16 yards in a 45-21 win against the New York Yanks in 1951. . . . Houston Oilers TE Bob McLeod (all-time leading rebounder for Abilene Christian TX with 1,237 from 1957-58 through 1960-61 also ranks among school's top 10 career scorers) caught five passes for 114 yards - including a career-long 55-yard touchdown from George Blanda - in a 32-17 victory against the Oakland Raiders in 1962. . . . Philadelphia Eagles QB Donovan McNabb (averaged 2.3 points in 18 games for Syracuse in 1995-96 and 1996-97) threw two first-half touchdown passes in a 24-14 win against the San Diego Chargers in 2001. . . . Buffalo Bills TE Robert Royal (collected 10 points and six rebounds in five LSU basketball games in 2000-01) caught two first-quarter touchdown passes in a 38-17 win against the Miami Dolphins in 2007.
10: New York Giants B Len Barnum (West Virginia Wesleyan hooper) had an interception in 27-0 setback against the Green Bay Packers in 1939 NFL championship game. . . . Miami Dolphins rookie WR Chris Chambers (played hoops briefly for Wisconsin under coach Dick Bennett in 1997-98) caught two touchdown passes in a 41-6 win against the Indianapolis Colts in 2001. . . . New York Giants QB Randy Dean (played in two hoop games in 1973-74 under Northwestern coach Tex Winter) threw his lone NFL touchdown pass in a 17-0 win against the St. Louis Cardinals in 1978. . . . San Diego Chargers TE Antonio Gates (second-team All-MAC selection in 2002 when Kent State finished runner-up in South Regional) caught two first-half touchdown passes from Philip Rivers in a 48-20 win against the Denver Broncos in 2006. . . . Cleveland Browns QB Otto Graham (Big Ten Conference runner-up in scoring as Northwestern sophomore in 1941-42 and junior in 1942-43) threw four touchdown passes in a 45-21 win against the Washington Redskins in 1950. . . . Cleveland Rams WR Ray Hamilton (Arkansas letterman for two SWC hoop champions from 1936 through 1938) caught a 70-yard touchdown pass in 26-13 setback against the Philadelphia Eagles in 1944. . . . Houston Texans WR DeAndre Hopkins (played in seven hoop games for Clemson in 2010-11) had 11 pass receptions - including two for touchdowns - in a 26-16 setback against the San Francisco 49ers in 2017. . . . Jacksonville Jaguars rookie WR Willie Jackson (started five hoops games for Florida in 1989-90) caught two fourth-quarter touchdown passes from Mark Brunell in a 41-31 setback against the Indianapolis Colts in 1995. . . . Denver Broncos QB Charley Johnson (transferred from Schreiner J.C. to New Mexico State to play hoops before concentrating on football) threw two first-half touchdown passes in a 30-23 win against the Oakland Raiders in 1972. . . . Pittsburgh Steelers QB Bobby Layne (Texas hooper in 1944-45) threw four touchdown passes in a 30-14 win against the Washington Redskins in 1961. . . . Chicago Cardinals rookie B Ike Mahoney (Creighton hooper in early 1920s) caught a 35-yard touchdown pass from Red Dunn (four-time Marquette hoops letterman first half of 1920s) in 59-0 win against the Milwaukee Badgers in 1925. . . . Rookie WR Bob McChesney (Hardin-Simmons TX hoops letterman in 1945-46) scored the New York Giants' only touchdown by catching a pass from Charlie Conerly in 9-7 win against the Philadelphia Eagles in 1950. . . . Philadelphia Eagles QB Donovan McNabb (averaged 2.3 points in 18 games for Syracuse in 1995-96 and 1996-97) completed 23-of-36 passes for 390 yards and four touchdowns in a 35-24 win against the Cleveland Browns in 2000. . . . New York Giants rookie B Kink Richards (Simpson IA hoops letterman) scored two second-half touchdowns in a 20-14 win against the Philadelphia Eagles in 1933. . . . Indianapolis Colts rookie WR Andre Rison (backup hoops guard for Michigan State in 1987-88) had five pass receptions for 135 yards in a 23-17 win against the Cleveland Browns in 1989. . . . Rookie B Gene Ronzani (among Marquette's top four scorers in 1931-32 and 1932-33) scored the Chicago Bears' lone touchdown with a 42-yard pass reception from Keith Molesworth (three-year hoops letterman for Monmouth IL in late 1920s) in 7-6 win against the Green Bay Packers in 1933. . . . New England Patriots WR Reggie Rucker (averaged 6.8 ppg and 3.8 rpg for Boston University in 1966-67) caught two second-quarter touchdown passes from Jim Plunkett in a 17-10 win against the New Orleans Saints in 1972. . . . New York Giants WR Del Shofner (Baylor hoops letterman in 1956) had three touchdown receptions in a 28-24 win against the Philadelphia Eagles in 1961. . . . Denver Broncos SE Lionel Taylor (led New Mexico Highlands in scoring average with 13.6 ppg in 1955-56 and 20.3 in 1956-57) had nine pass receptions for 171 yards in a 41-33 setback against the Los Angeles Chargers in 1960. . . . Chicago Bears WR Kendall Wright (Baylor hooper as freshman in 2008-09) had 10 pass receptions in a 33-7 win against the Cincinnati Bengals in 2017.
11: Philadelphia Eagles E Neill Armstrong (played one game under legendary Oklahoma A&M coach Hank Iba in 1944) caught a touchdown pass in his fourth consecutive contest in 1949. . . . Washington Redskins QB Sammy Baugh (TCU three-year hoops letterman was All-SWC honorable mention selection as senior in 1936-37) threw three touchdown passes in a 53-27 setback against the Los Angeles Rams in 1949. Rams E Bob Shaw (Ohio State hoops starter in 1942 and 1943) had four TD pass receptions. . . . New York Giants B Len Barnum (West Virginia Wesleyan hoper) had a nine-yard run from scrimmage and 20-yard pass reception in 23-17 win against the Green Bay Packers in 1938 NFL championship game. Packers E Wayland Becker (Marquette hoops letterman in mid-1930s) had a game-high 78 receiving yards. Giants TB Ed Danowski (Fordham hoops letterman in 1932-33) threw two touchdown passes, including a 21-yarder to rookie E Hap Barnard (four-year hoops letterman for Central Oklahoma played in 1938 NAIA Tournament as senior). C-LB Mel Hein (Washington State hoops letterman in 1930), the only offensive lineman earning NFL MVP award, recovered a fumble near midfield to help set up a Giants TD. Giants E Jim Lee Howell (All-SWC first-five selection as Arkansas senior in 1935-36) had two pass receptions. Giants TB Tuffy Leemans (three-year hoops letterman for George Washington in mid-1930s) had a six-yard rushing TD. . . . Philadelphia Eagles CB Jimmy Carr (three-year hoops letterman for Morris Harvey WV appeared in NAIA Tournament in 1953 and 1954) had an interception in his second consecutive contest in 1960. Pittsburgh Steelers RB John Henry Johnson (made 5-of-8 FGAs in five games for Saint Mary's in 1950-51) scored two first-half touchdowns - including an 87-yard run from scrimmage - in 27-21 win against the Eagles. . . . Miami Dolphins WR Chris Chambers (played briefly for Wisconsin under coach Dick Bennett in 1997-98) caught two third-quarter touchdown passes in a 23-21 win against the San Diego Chargers in 2005. Chargers TE Antonio Gates (second-team All-MAC selection in 2002 when Kent State finished runner-up in South Regional) caught 13 passes for 123 yards. Six years later, Gates caught two TD passes from Philip Rivers in a 37-10 win against the Buffalo Bills in 2011. . . . New Orleans Saints rookie WR Eugene Goodlow (scored 38 points in 19 games for Kansas State in 1977-78 and 1978-79) caught a career-high seven passes in a 20-17 win against the Philadelphia Eagles in 1983. . . . Cleveland Browns QB Otto Graham (Big Ten Conference runner-up in scoring as Northwestern sophomore in 1941-42 and junior in 1942-43) threw three touchdown passes in a 35-24 win against the Chicago Cardinals in 1955. . . . In his lone professional game, Oakland Raiders QB Charlie Green (averaged 3.7 ppg and 2 rpg for Wittenberg OH runner-up in 1963 NCAA Division II Tournament) completed both pass attempts for a total of 17 yards in a 28-10 win against the Denver Broncos in 1966. . . . New York Giants TB Hinkey Haines (Lebanon Valley PA transfer earned hoops letter for Penn State in 1920 and 1921) rushed for a 60-yard touchdown in a 13-0 win against the New York Yankees in 1927. . . . Dallas Cowboys DB Manny Hendrix (All-WAC second-team selection for Utah as senior in 1985-86 averaged 12.1 ppg and team-high 5.1 apg as sophomore) had an interception in a 24-17 win against the Washington Redskins in 1988. . . . New York Jets RB Johnny Johnson (averaged 11.2 ppg, 6.5 rpg and 3.2 apg in 1988-89 after majority of hoop team members walked off San Jose State squad) rushed for 155 yards in a 3-0 win against the Washington Redskins in 1993. . . . San Francisco 49ers DB Ronnie Lott (USC hooper as junior in 1979-80) had two interceptions in a 23-10 win against the Buffalo Bills in 1983. . . . Chicago Bears QB Johnny Lujack (averaged 3.4 ppg as starting guard for Notre Dame in 1943-44) threw six of his league-high 23 touchdown passes in a 52-21 win against the Chicago Cardinals in 1949. . . . New York Titans WR Art Powell (averaged 10.5 ppg and 8.2 rpg for San Jose State in 1956-57) had 10 catches for 179 yards - including two touchdowns (one for 72 yards) - in a 31-28 win against the Oakland Raiders in 1960. Six years later with the Raiders, Powell caught two TD passes from Tom Flores (46 and 45 yards) in a 28-10 win against the Denver Broncos in 1966. . . . Atlanta Falcons WR Andre Rison (backup hoops guard for Michigan State in 1987-88) had two of his league-high 15 touchdown receptions in a 27-24 win against the San Francisco 49ers in 1993. . . . Atlanta Falcons LB Marion Rushing (Southern Illinois hooper from 1954-55 through 1956-57) had an interception in 16-10 win against the St. Louis Cardinals in 1966. . . . New York Giants LB Tom Scott (hoops letterman as Virginia forward in 1951) returned an interception 14 yards for touchdown in 17-3 win against the Washington Redskins in 1960.
12: Washington Redskins RB Cliff Battles (four seasons of varsity hoops for West Virginia Wesleyan) opened the game's scoring with a seven-yard rushing touchdown and LB Eddie Kawal (Illinois hoops letterman in 1930) returned an interception 19 yards in 28-21 win against the Chicago Bears in the 1937 NFL Championship. Ray Flaherty (four-sport Gonzaga athlete including hoops) coached the Redskins. Bears E Eggs Manske (point guard led Northwestern to share of 1933 Big Ten Conference crown) had a four-yard pass reception touchdown plus 51-yard catch, Bears B Ray Nolting (Cincinnati hoops letterman in 1936) rushed for 31 yards on 10 carries, Bears B Gene Ronzani (among Marquette's top four scorers in 1931-32 and 1932-33) returned an interception 16 yards and Bears B Keith Molesworth (three-year hoops letterman for Monmouth IL in late 1920s) completed a pass for 35 yards to rookie E Dick Plasman (Vanderbilt two-year starting center named to 1936 All-SEC Tournament second five). Plasman also had two sacks. . . . Washington Redskins QB Sammy Baugh (TCU three-year letterman was All-SWC honorable mention selection as senior in 1936-37) threw three touchdown passes in a 28-21 win against the New York Giants in 1948. Redskins E Hugh Taylor (OCU leading scorer with 11.4 ppg as senior in 1947) caught two second-half TD passes from Baugh. Six years later, Taylor had three first-half TD receptions in a 37-20 win against the Chicago Cardinals in 1954. . . . . . . Kansas City Chiefs QB Len Dawson (Purdue hooper in 1956-57) completed 23-of-37 passes for 355 yards in a 34-25 setback against the Buffalo Bills in 1965. . . . Kansas City Chiefs TE Al Dixon (Iowa State hooper in 1975-76 and 1976-77) had a career-high 102 receiving yards (on six catches) in 21-16 setback against the Los Angeles Raiders in 1982. . . . Kansas City Chiefs TE Tony Gonzalez (averaged 6.4 ppg and 4.3 rpg for California from 1994-95 through 1996-97) caught two first-half touchdown passes in a 31-28 win against the Minnesota Vikings in 1999. . . . Baltimore Ravens TE Todd Heap (grabbed 14 rebounds in 11 games for Arizona State in 1999-00) caught two touchdown passes in a 37-14 win against the New York Giants in 2004. . . . Los Angeles Rams E Red Hickey (three-time All-SWC selection and member of Arkansas' 1941 Final Four team) opened a game's scoring with a touchdown reception of more than 20 yards for the third time in less than a month in 1948. . . . Green Bay Packers RB Paul Hornung (averaged 6.1 ppg in 10 contests for Notre Dame in 1954-55) scored five touchdowns - including two via pass receptions (50 and 65 yards from Bart Starr) - in a 42-27 win against the Baltimore Colts in 1965. Packers LB Dave Robinson (made two free throws and grabbed five rebounds in two basketball games for Penn State in 1960-61) had an 87-yard interception return. . . . Washington Redskins QB Brad Johnson (part-time starting forward for Florida State as freshman in 1987-88 when averaging 5.9 ppg and shooting 89.1% from free-throw line) threw two second-quarter touchdown passes in a 28-3 win against the Arizona Cardinals in 1999. . . . Phoenix Cardinals RB Johnny Johnson (averaged 11.2 ppg, 6.5 rpg and 3.2 apg in 1988-89 after majority of hoop team members walked off San Jose State squad) rushed for 156 yards and two touchdowns in a 19-0 win against the New York Giants in 1992. . . . Chicago Bears rookie QB Johnny Lujack (averaged 3.4 ppg as starting guard for Notre Dame in 1943-44) threw two first-half touchdown passes in a 24-21 setback against the Chicago Cardinals in 1948. . . . Dallas Cowboys RB Preston Pearson (swingman averaged 8.7 ppg and 6 rpg as Illinois senior in 1966-67) scored two touchdowns in a 42-35 win against the San Francisco 49ers in 1977. Cowboys QB Roger Staubach (Navy varsity hooper in 1962-63) completed 14-of-19 passes for three TDs. Six years earlier, Staubach threw three first-half TD passes in a 42-14 win against the New York Giants in 1971. . . . Buffalo Bills QB George Ratterman (third-leading scorer with 11.7 ppg for Notre Dame in 1944-45) threw three touchdown passes in a 28-17 win against the Baltimore Colts in the 1948 AAFC playoffs. . . . Cincinnati Bengals rookie WR Patrick Robinson (starting guard for Tennessee State in 1990-91 when averaging 6.7 ppg and 2.9 apg) had a career-high three pass receptions in a 7-2 setback against the New England Patriots in 1993. . . . Philadelphia Eagles LB George Tarasovic (led NLU forerunner Northeast Junior College LA with 21 ppg in 1950-51) returned an interception 40 yards for a touchdown in a 47-13 win against the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1965. . . . New York Giants E Will Walls (starting forward with TCU for three years from 1935 through 1937) caught a 33-yard touchdown pass in regular-season ending 31-7 win against the Washington Redskins in 1943. . . . Philadelphia Eagles DE Norm Willey (Marshall hoops center in late 1940s) opened the game's scoring by recovering a fumble for touchdown in 29-14 win against the New York Giants in 1954.
13: New York Giants TE Kevin Boss (averaged 3 ppg and 2.7 rpg while shooting 51.9% from floor for Western Oregon in 2004-05 and 2005-06) had a career-high seven pass receptions in 45-38 setback against the Philadelphia Eagles in 2009. . . . Detroit Lions E Cloyce Box (combined with twin brother Boyce to help West Texas win Border Conference hoop championship in 1943) closed out 1952 campaign with his third consecutive contest contributing three pass receptions for touchdowns (including 77-yarder). . . . Kansas City Chiefs QB Len Dawson (Purdue hooper in 1956-57) threw four touchdown passes in a 49-6 win against the San Diego Chargers in 1964. . . . Chicago Bears rookie WR George Farmer (teammate of UCLA legend Lew Alcindor in 1968-69) caught a career-high nine passes for 142 yards in 35-17 win against the Green Bay Packers in 1970. . . . Ray Flaherty (four-sport Gonzaga athlete including hoops) coached the Washington Redskins in 1942 when they registered a 14-6 win against the Chicago Bears in the NFL championship game. Bears B Ray Nolting (Cincinnati hoops letterman in 1936) rushed for 25 yards on eight carries, caught one pass for 11 yards, had one interception and returned a kickoff for 23 yards. . . . Chicago Cardinals QB King Hill (Rice letterman in 1955-56 and 1956-57) threw two second-half touchdown passes in a 35-20 setback against the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1959. . . . Green Bay Packers RB Paul Hornung (averaged 6.1 ppg in 10 contests for Notre Dame in 1954-55) rushed for three touchdowns in a 36-14 win against the San Francisco 49ers in 1959. . . . St. Louis Cardinals QB Charley Johnson (transferred from Schreiner J.C. to New Mexico State to play hoops before concentrating on football) passed for 371 of a league-high 3,045 yards - including two third-quarter touchdowns - in a 36-34 win against the Philadelphia Eagles in 1964. . . . New Orleans Saints QB Billy Kilmer (UCLA hooper under legendary coach John Wooden in 1959-60) threw three touchdown passes in a 38-27 setback against the San Francisco 49ers in 1970. The next year with the Washington Redskins, Kilmer threw three TD passes in a 38-24 win against the Los Angeles Rams in 1971. . . . Detroit Lions QB Bobby Layne (Texas hooper in 1944-45) threw two second-quarter touchdown passes in a 41-6 win against the Dallas Texans in 1952. The next year, Layne threw two first-half TD passes in a 27-16 win against the New York Giants in 1953. In 1959 with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Layne threw four TD passes in a 35-20 win against the Chicago Cardinals. . . . New York Giants DE George Martin (Oregon hoops teammate of freshman sensation Ron Lee in 1972-73) returned a fumble recovery 20 yards for touchdown in 20-10 win against the St. Louis Cardinals in 1981. . . . Los Angeles Rams rookie WR Bucky Pope (two-time All-Carolinas Conference pick for Catawba NC averaged 19.4 ppg from 1961-62 through 1963-64) opened the game's scoring by catching a 95-yard touchdown pass from Bill Munson in 24-24 tie against the Green Bay Packers in 1964. . . . Philadelphia Eagles QB Norm Snead (averaged 7.8 ppg in four Wake Forest games as senior in 1960-61) passed for 301 yards - including three second-quarter touchdowns - in a 36-34 setback against the St. Louis Cardinals in 1964. . . . Atlanta Falcons LB Kenny Tippins (made one basket and grabbed six rebounds in three hoops games with Middle Tennessee State in 1989-90) had two sacks in a 35-7 win against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1992. . . . Dallas Cowboys P Ron Widby (three-time All-SEC selection for Tennessee from 1964-65 through 1966-67 averaged 14.5 ppg and 8.3 rpg as sophomore, 17.3 ppg and 8 rpg as junior and 22.1 ppg and 8.7 rpg as senior) punted seven times for 324 yards (46.3 average) in a 27-10 win against the Baltimore Colts in 1969. . . . San Francisco 49ers E Billy Wilson (averaged 3.3 ppg as senior letterman for San Jose State in 1950-51) caught a touchdown pass in last four games to finish with a league-high 10 TD catches in 1953.
14: Washington Redskins QB Sammy Baugh (TCU three-year hoops letterman was All-SWC honorable mention selection as senior in 1936-37) threw three touchdown passes in a 40-13 win against the Boston Yanks in 1947. Redskins B Dick Poillon (Canisius hooper in early 1940s) scored two TDs. . . . Green Bay Packers LB Fred Carr (played for defending NCAA champion Texas Western in 1967 playoffs) had two interceptions in a 22-5 setback against the Los Angeles Rams in 1975. . . . Kansas City Chiefs QB Len Dawson (Purdue hooper in 1956-57) had a 43-yard rushing touchdown in 35-3 win against the Boston Patriots in 1963. . . . In 1930, the Green Bay Packers' lone score in a 6-6 tie against the Portsmouth Spartans was a 15-yard pass from Red Dunn (four-year Marquette letterman first half of 1920s) to rookie Weert Engelmann (All-NCC selection for South Dakota State). . . . Kansas City Chiefs TE Tony Gonzalez (averaged 6.4 ppg and 4.3 rpg for California from 1994-95 through 1996-97) caught two touchdown passes in a 45-17 win against the Detroit Lions in 2003. . . . Cleveland Browns QB Otto Graham (Big Ten Conference runner-up in scoring as Northwestern sophomore in 1941-42 and junior in 1942-43) threw two second-half touchdown passes in a 37-34 setback against the New York Giants in 1952. . . . San Francisco 49ers RB Terry Kirby (averaged 3.4 ppg as Virginia freshman in 1989-90 and 2.1 as sophomore in 1990-91) rushed for two touchdowns in a 35-13 win against the Detroit Lions in 1998. . . . Houston Texans rookie LB Antwan Peek (made one field goal and grabbed five rebounds in six basketball games for Cincinnati in 2000-01 under coach Bob Huggins) supplied a career-high seven solo tackles in 16-3 setback against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2003. . . . Cleveland Browns RB Greg Pruitt (Oklahoma frosh hooper in 1969-70) rushed for 214 yards on 26 carries - including three touchdowns - in a 40-14 win against the Kansas City Chiefs in 1975. Browns WR Reggie Rucker (averaged 6.8 ppg and 3.8 rpg for Boston University in 1966-67) had six pass receptions for 130 yards. . . . Indianapolis Colts TE Ross Travis (Penn State's leading rebounder three straight seasons from 2012-13 through 2014-15) caught two passes for a career-high 33 yards in 25-13 setback against the Denver Broncos in 2017.
15: Miami Dolphins LB Larry Ball (played eight hoop games for Louisville as sophomore in 1968-69 before persuaded by coach Lee Corso to concentrate on football) had an interception in a 34-7 win against the Detroit Lions in 1973. . . . Miami Dolphins WR Chris Chambers (played briefly for Wisconsin under coach Dick Bennett in 1997-98) caught seven passes for 138 yards in a 23-17 win against the Oakland Raiders in 2002. . . . Detroit Lions TB Dutch Clark (four-time All-Rocky Mountain Conference hoops choice for Colorado College) rushed seven times for a game-high 80 yards - including 40-yard touchdown - in 26-7 win against the New York Giants in 1935 NFL championship contest. TB Ed Danowski (Fordham hoops letterman in 1932-33) threw a 42-yard pass for the Giants' lone touchdown. Giants rookie E Tod Goodwin (West Virginia hoops letterman in 1933) had two pass receptions for 26 yards. Giants B Kink Richards (Simpson IA hoops letterman) rushed for 31 yards on 10 carries and returned one kickoff for 30 yards. . . . Cincinnati Bengals LB James Francis (averaged 3 ppg and 3.6 rpg for Baylor in 1986-87 and 1987-88) had two interceptions - returning one 42 yards for a touchdown - in a 21-13 win against the Houston Texans in 1996. . . . A fourth-quarter touchdown reception by rookie E Dale Gentry (averaged 5.3 ppg for Washington State's 1941 NCAA Tournament runner-up) propelled the Los Angeles Dons to 17-17 tie against the Chicago Rockets in 1946. . . . New Orleans Saints WR Eugene Goodlow (scored 38 points in 19 games for Kansas State in 1977-78 and 1978-79) caught five passes for 135 yards - including 76-yard touchdown from Bobby Hebert - in a 31-19 setback against the San Francisco 49ers in 1985. . . . Miami Dolphins QB Bob Griese (sophomore guard for Purdue in 1964-65) threw four touchdown passes to Paul Warfield in a 34-7 win against the Detroit Lions in 1973. . . . Dallas Cowboys DB Manny Hendrix (All-WAC second-team selection for Utah as senior in 1985-86 averaged 12.1 ppg and team-high 5.1 apg as sophomore) recorded a safety in a 25-13 win against the Philadelphia Eagles in 1991. . . . Los Angeles Rams E Elroy "Crazy Legs" Hirsch (starting center for Michigan hoops in 1944) caught two touchdown passes from Norm Van Brocklin in a 37-21 win against the Baltimore Colts in 1957. . . . St. Louis Cardinals QB Charley Johnson (transferred from Schreiner J.C. to New Mexico State to play hoops before concentrating on football) passed for 299 yards - including two second-quarter touchdowns - in a 28-24 setback against the Dallas Cowboys in 1963. . . . New Orleans Saints QB Billy Kilmer (UCLA hooper under legendary coach John Wooden in 1959-60) threw two first-half touchdown passes in a 24-14 win against the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1968. . . . Frankfort Yellow Jackets B Ken Mercer (three-year letterman as Simpson IA forward) rushed for three touchdowns in a 19-0 win against the Chicago Bears in 1928. . . . Baltimore Colts RB Preston Pearson (swingman averaged 8.7 ppg and 6 rpg as Illinois senior in 1966-67) had two pass reception touchdowns - including 61-yarder from Earl Morrall - in a 28-24 win against the Los Angeles Rams in 1968. . . . New York Giants E Buster Poole (three-year Arkansas letterman was senior captain in 1936-37) caught four passes for 40 yards in a 24-14 setback against the Chicago Bears in the 1946 NFL championship game. . . . Oakland Raiders WR Art Powell (averaged 10.5 ppg and 8.2 rpg for San Jose State in 1956-57) caught two of his AFL-high 16 touchdown passes in a 35-31 win against the Denver Broncos in 1963. Broncos TE Gene Prebola (Boston University hooper in 1957-58) had four pass receptions for 106 yards. Broncos SE Lionel Taylor (led New Mexico Highlands in scoring average with 13.6 ppg in 1955-56 and 20.3 in 1956-57) had 10 of his AFL-leading 78 pass receptions. . . . New England Patriots TE-LB John Tanner (JC recruit averaged 3.5 ppg and 3.4 rpg for Tennessee Tech in 1968-69) played on offense, defense and special teams in a 34-27 setback against the Miami Dolphins in 1974 finale. . . . Miami Dolphins DE Jason Taylor (averaged 8 ppg and 5.4 rpg for Akron in 1994-95) had three sacks in a 23-17 win against the Oakland Raiders in 2002. . . . Washington Redskins rookie QB Harry Theofiledes (averaged 9.3 ppg and 5 rpg for Waynesburg PA in 1964-65 and 1965-66) threw a 39-yard touchdown pass in 14-3 win against the Detroit Lions in 1968 season finale. . . . Tennessee Titans WR Kendall Wright (Baylor hooper as freshman in 2008-09) caught 12 passes for 150 yards in a 37-34 setback against the Arizona Cardinals in 2013.
16: Cincinnati Bengals QB Ken Anderson (swingman finished Augustana IL career in early 1970s as fifth-leading scorer in school history with 1,044 points) threw three touchdown passes for the third time in last four games of 1973 campaign. . . . San Francisco 49ers RB Joe Arenas (averaged 6.2 ppg in 1949-50 and 1950-51 for Nebraska-Omaha) scored the go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter with a 67-yard punt return against the Baltimore Colts in 1956. . . . Washington Redskins B Steve Bagarus (Notre Dame hooper in early 1940s) had a 38-yard pass reception for the game's first touchdown in a 15-14 setback against the Cleveland Rams in 1945 NFL championship contest. E Jim Benton (forward was Arkansas' third-leading scorer in SWC play as senior in 1937-38) scored the Rams' first TD with a 37-yard pass reception from Bob Waterfield en route to game highs of nine catches and 125 receiving yards. Rams E Steve Pritko (Villanova two-year hoops letterman) caught two passes for 17 yards. . . . Pittsburgh Steelers DB Tony Dungy (roommate of Flip Saunders averaged 2.6 ppg for Minnesota in 1973-74 under coach Bill Musselman) intercepted a pass in second consecutive contest in 1978. . . . Carolina Panthers DE Greg Hardy (Ole Miss backup forward as freshman in 2006-07) had two sacks and five tackles in a 31-7 victory against the San Diego Chargers in 2012. . . . Los Angeles Rams E Elroy "Crazy Legs" Hirsch (starting hoops center for Michigan hoops in 1944) had three of his league-high 17 touchdown receptions in a 42-14 win against the Green Bay Packers in 1951. . . . San Diego Chargers WR Vincent Jackson (Northern Colorado's scoring leader with 13.6 ppg in 2003-04 while also contributing 5.6 rpg and 3.1 apg) caught three touchdown passes from Philip Rivers in a 34-7 win against the San Francisco 49ers in 2010. . . . St. Louis Cardinals QB Charley Johnson (transferred from Schreiner J.C. to New Mexico State to play hoops before concentrating on football) passed for 386 yards - including two first-half touchdowns (one of them 77 yards to Sonny Randle) - in a 45-35 win against the Philadelphia Eagles in 1962. . . . Washington Redskins QB Billy Kilmer (UCLA hooper under legendary coach John Wooden in 1959-60) threw four touchdown passes - three to Larry Brown - in a 38-20 win against the Philadelphia Eagles in 1973. . . . Green Bay Packers E Ron Kramer (three-time All-Big Ten Conference selection was Michigan's MVP each season and All-American as senior in 1956-57) opened the game's scoring with a 45-yard touchdown catch in 20-17 win against the Los Angeles Rams in 1962. . . . San Francisco 49ers E R.C. Owens (led small colleges with 27.1 rpg in 1953-54 while also averaging 23.5 ppg for College of Idaho) caught two touchdown passes from John Brodie in a 27-24 setback against the Baltimore Colts in 1961. . . . Dallas Cowboys WR Terrell Owens (UTC hooper from 1993-94 through 1995-96 started five games) caught two first-half touchdown passes from Tony Romo in a 38-28 win against the Atlanta Falcons in 2006. . . . Dallas Cowboys RB Preston Pearson (swingman averaged 8.7 ppg and 6 rpg as Illinois senior in 1966-67) had five pass receptions for 108 yards in a 35-34 win against the Washington Redskins in 1979. Cowboys QB Roger Staubach (Navy varsity hooper in 1962-63) passed for 336 yards and three TDs. Six years earlier, Staubach completed 14-of-19 passes - including three touchdowns - in a 30-3 win against the St. Louis Cardinals in 1973. . . . New York Giants DB Emlen Tunnell (forward was top reserve for Toledo team compiling 22-4 record and finishing second in 1943 NIT) returned a punt 74 yards for touchdown in 27-17 win against the New York Yanks in 1951.
17: New York Giants E Red Badgro (first-five All-Pacific Coast Conference pick as forward in 1926-27 when named USC's MVP) had a 29-yard pass reception for a touchdown in a 23-21 setback against the Chicago Bears in the 1933 NFL championship game. Giants B Dale Burnett (two-time all-conference hooper for Emporia State KS) had game highs with five catches for 94 receiving yards. Bears B Keith Molesworth (three-year hoops letterman for Monmouth IL in late 1920s) completed 2-of-5 passes for 24 yards, rushed once for five yards, returned three punts for 33 yards and punted 10 times for a 39.8-yard average. Giants rookie B Kink Richards (Simpson IA hoops letterman) had a team-high 40 rushing yards and returned one kickoff 36 yards. Bears rookie B Gene Ronzani (among Marquette's top four scorers in 1931-32 and 1932-33) rushed for a game-high 73 yards. . . . Kansas City Chiefs QB Len Dawson (Purdue hooper in 1956-57) threw three first-half touchdown passes to Otis Taylor (backup small forward for Prairie View A&M) in a 38-24 win against the Denver Broncos in 1967. . . . Chicago Bears rookie TE Mike Ditka (averaged 2.8 ppg and 2.6 rpg for Pittsburgh in 1958-59 and 1959-60) caught eight passes for 102 yards - including two touchdowns - in a 52-35 win against the Minnesota Vikings in 1961. Vikings DB Dick Pesonen (two-year Minnesota-Duluth hoops letterman was starting guard in 1959-60) returned five kickoffs for 133 yards. Vikings WR Jerry Reichow (Iowa hooper in 1954-55) caught three TD passes from Fran Tarkenton. Reichow had a total of seven TD pass receptions in the last five games of season. . . . Denver Broncos TE Wesley Duke (averaged 9.8 ppg and 5.9 rpg for Mercer from 2001-02 through 2004-05) caught a touchdown pass from Jake Plummer in 28-17 win against the Buffalo Bills in 2005. Broncos WR Rod Smith (swingman was Missouri Southern State hoops letterman as sophomore in 1990-91) caught 11 passes for 137 yards. . . . Green Bay Packers FB Ted Fritsch Sr. (Wisconsin-Stevens Point hoops letterman in 1940-41 and 1941-42) scored two second-quarter touchdowns - one rushing and one receiving - in a 14-7 win against the New York Giants in 1944 NFL championship contest. Giants LB Mel Hein (Washington State hoops letterman in 1930) had an interception. . . . Miami Dolphins rookie QB Bob Griese (sophomore guard for Purdue in 1964-65) threw three first-half touchdown passes in a 41-32 win against the Boston Patriots in 1967. . . . Houston Oilers WR Bill Groman (led Heidelberg OH in scoring average as sophomore and junior while averaging 14.6 ppg and 4.8 rpg from 1954-55 through 1957-58) caught two touchdown passes from George Blanda in a 47-16 win against the Oakland Raiders in 1961. . . . New Orleans Saints WR Willie Jackson (started five hoops games for Florida in 1989-90) had eight pass receptions for 156 yards in a 34-21 setback against the St. Louis Rams in 2001. . . . Denver Broncos QB Charley Johnson (transferred from Schreiner J.C. to New Mexico State to play hoops before concentrating on football) threw three touchdown passes in a 45-21 win against the New England Patriots in 1972. . . . New Orleans Saints QB Billy Kilmer (UCLA hooper under legendary coach John Wooden in 1959-60) opened the game's scoring with an 80-yard touchdown pass to Danny Abramowicz in a 30-14 win against the Washington Redskins in 1967. Ten years later with the Washington Redskins, Kilmer threw two first-quarter TD passes in a 17-14 win against the Los Angeles Rams in 1977. . . . Chicago Bears QB Johnny Lujack (averaged 3.4 ppg as starting guard for Notre Dame in 1943-44) completed 15-of-29 passes but threw three interceptions in a 24-14 playoff setback against the Los Angeles Rams in 1950. . . . Carolina Panthers TE Chris Manhertz (Canisius' leading rebounder from 2011-12 through 2013-14) caught his first career touchdown on a trick-play 50-yard pass from RB Christian McCaffrey to open the game's scoring in 12-9 setback against the New Orleans Saints in 2018. . . . New York Giants rookie WR Bob McChesney (Hardin-Simmons TX hoops letterman in 1945-46) had a pass reception for 19 yards in 8-3 setback against the Cleveland Browns in 1950 playoff game. Browns rookie B Dom Moselle (leading hoops scorer for Wisconsin-Superior in 1947-48 and 1948-49) returned two kickoffs for 55 yards. Giants DB Otto Schnellbacher (averaged 11 ppg in four-year Kansas career, earning All-Big Six/Seven Conference honors each season) had an interception. . . . San Francisco 49ers WR Terrell Owens (UTC hooper from 1993-94 through 1995-96 started five games) caught 20 passes for 283 yards in a 17-0 win against the Chicago Bears in 2000. . . . Chicago Bears rookie K Mac Percival (three-year hoops letterman was part of squad winning Texas Tech's first SWC championship in major sport in 1960-61) kicked three field goals in a 23-14 win against the Atlanta Falcons in 1967. . . . Cleveland Browns RB Greg Pruitt (Oklahoma frosh hooper in 1969-70) rushed for 182 yards on 22 carries in a 48-16 setback against the Cincinnati Bengals in 1978. Pruitt closed out the campaign with at least 113 yards rushing in his last three contests. . . . Buffalo Bills TE Robert Royal (collected 10 points and six rebounds in five LSU basketball games in 2000-01) opened the game's scoring in a 21-0 win against the Miami Dolphins by catching touchdown pass in his third consecutive contest in 2006. . . . Miami Dolphins TE Dion Sims (played one basketball game with Michigan State under coach Tom Izzo in 2009-10) caught two touchdown passes in a 34-13 win against the New York Jets in 2016. . . . Oakland Raiders OT Chad Slaughter (averaged 4.3 ppg and team-high 5.9 rpg in 1998-99 for Alcorn State's NCAA playoff team coached by Davey Whitney) started his fourth consecutive contest in 2006. . . . Philadelphia Eagles QB Norm Snead (averaged 7.8 ppg in four Wake Forest games as senior in 1960-61) threw three touchdown passes in a 28-24 win against the Cleveland Browns in 1967. Five years later with the New York Giants, Snead threw two second-quarter TD passes in a 23-3 win against the Dallas Cowboys in 1972. . . . Houston Oilers CB Greg Stemrick (played in two basketball games for Colorado State in 1973-74) returned an interception 38 yards in a 45-24 setback against the San Diego Chargers in 1978. . . . St. Louis Cardinals rookie WR Dave Stief (hoop teammate of Portland State All-American Freeman Williams in 1977-78) had career highs of nine pass receptions for 183 yards in a 42-21 win against the Atlanta Falcons in 1978.
18: St. Louis Cardinals DE Bubba Baker (averaged 4.1 ppg and 3.5 rpg as forward-center for Colorado State from 1974-75 through 1977-78) posted three sacks against the Philadelphia Eagles in a 1983 game. . . . Washington Redskins TE Jean Fugett (leading scorer and rebounder for Amherst MA as junior in 1970-71) had four pass receptions for 61 yards in a 35-20 setback against the Minnesota Vikings in 1976 playoff game. . . . Kansas City Chiefs TE Tony Gonzalez (averaged 6.4 ppg and 4.3 rpg for California from 1994-95 through 1996-97) caught two first-half touchdown passes in a 35-19 win against the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1999. . . . Washington Redskins QB Billy Kilmer (UCLA hooper under legendary coach John Wooden in 1959-60) passed for 298 yards - including two fourth-quarter touchdowns - in a 35-20 playoff setback against the Minnesota Vikings in 1976. . . . Boston Patriots rookie SE Oscar Lofton (collected 31 points and 30 rebounds in 12 games for Southeastern Louisiana in 1958-59) caught two third-quarter touchdown passes (37 and 39 yards) in a 37-21 setback against the Houston Oilers in 1960. . . . Carolina Panthers DE Julius Peppers (averaged 5.7 ppg and 3.7 rpg while shooting 60.7% from floor for North Carolina in 1999-00 and 2000-01) returned a fumble recovery 60 yards for a touchdown in a 34-31 setback against the Atlanta Falcons in 2004. . . . Pittsburgh Steelers WR Antwaan Randle El (member of Indiana's 1999 NCAA Tournament team) had five pass receptions for 149 yards in a 33-30 win against the New York Giants in 2004. . . . Green Bay Packers CB Quinten Rollins (led Miami OH in steals all four seasons from 2010-11 through 2013-14 including MAC as senior) had a career-high eight tackles in 30-27 win against the Chicago Bears in 2016. . . . Pittsburgh Steelers LB Bill Saul (averaged 6.1 ppg for Penn State in 1959-60) returned an interception eight yards in a 57-33 win against the Atlanta Falcons in 1966. . . . Miami Dolphins rookie QB John Stofa (averaged 5.8 ppg and 5.4 rpg for Buffalo in 1961-62) passed for 307 yards and four touchdowns in a 29-28 win against the Houston Oilers in 1966. . . . Indianapolis Colts TE Erik Swoope (averaged 2.6 ppg and 1.7 rpg for Miami FL from 2010-11 through 2013-14) caught a 27-yard touchdown pass from Andrew Luck in 34-6 win against the Minnesota Vikings in 2016. . . . Miami Dolphins DE Jason Taylor (averaged 8 ppg and 5.4 rpg for Akron in 1994-95) had three sacks in a 24-20 win against the New York Jets in 2005.
19: Kansas City Chiefs LB Bobby Bell (first African-American hooper for Minnesota in 1960-61) returned an interception 26 yards for a touchdown in a 22-9 win against the Buffalo Bills in 1971. . . . E Billy Dewell (three-time All-SWC first-team pick for SMU in late 1930s) and E Mal Kutner (two-year Texas hoops letterman in early 1940s) each had one of the Chicago Cardinals' three pass receptions in a 7-0 setback against the Philadelphia Eagles in 1948 NFL championship game. Eagles HB Bosh Pritchard (four-sport letterman for VMI) rushed for 67 yards on 16 carries. . . . New Orleans Saints rookie TE Jimmy Graham (part-time starter for Miami FL averaged 4.2 ppg and 4.2 rpg from 2005-06 through 2008-09) caught two first-half touchdown passes from Drew Brees in a 30-24 setback against the Baltimore Ravens in 2010. . . . Baltimore Ravens TE Todd Heap (grabbed 14 rebounds in 11 games for Arizona State in 1999-00) caught nine passes - including two touchdowns - in a 48-3 win against the Green Bay Packers in 2005. . . . Oakland Raiders TE Teyo Johnson (part-time starting forward for Stanford averaged 4.9 ppg and 3 rpg in 2000-01 and 2001-02) opened the game's scoring with an 18-yard touchdown pass from Kerry Collins in 40-35 win against the Tennessee Titans in 2004. . . . Houston Texans WR Jacoby Jones (part-time starter averaged 3.4 ppg and 3.7 rpg for Lane TN in 2004-05 and 2005-06) had a career-high seven pass receptions in 31-17 setback against the Tennessee Titans in 2010. . . . Miami Dolphins rookie RB Terry Kirby (averaged 3.4 ppg as Virginia freshman in 1989-90 and 2.1 as sophomore in 1990-91) had nine pass receptions for 148 yards in a 47-34 setback against the Buffalo Bills in 1993. . . . Detroit Lions QB Bobby Layne (Texas hooper in 1944-45) threw two second-half touchdown passes in a 14-10 win against the Cleveland Browns in 1954. . . . Green Bay Packers TE Rich McGeorge (all-league hooper for Elon averaged 13.7 ppg and 9.1 rpg while making 59% of his field-goal attempts) had a career-high five pass receptions in 27-6 setback against the Miami Dolphins in 1971. . . . Cleveland Browns rookie HB Ara Parseghian (Miami of Ohio hooper in 1946-47 and 1947-48) rushed for 14 yards on four carries in a 49-7 win against the Buffalo Bills in 1948 AAFC championship game. . . . Dallas Cowboys RB Preston Pearson (swingman averaged 8.7 ppg and 6 rpg as Illinois senior in 1966-67) rushed 13 times for 43 yards and caught six passes for 41 yards in a 14-12 playoff setback against the Los Angeles Rams in 1976. . . . Cleveland Browns TE Robert Royal (collected 10 points and six rebounds in five LSU basketball games in 2000-01) opened the game's scoring with a 20-yard touchdown reception from Colt McCoy in 19-17 setback against the Cincinnati Bengals in 2010. . . . Washington Redskins CB Lonnie Sanders (averaged 10.9 ppg and 5.7 rpg as Michigan State forward in 1961-62) closed out the 1965 campaign with an interception in his second straight game. . . . Philadelphia Eagles rookie WR Troy Smith (played four basketball games for East Carolina in 1996-97) tore ligament in his leg making only pro reception - 14 yards from QB Donovan McNabb (averaged 2.3 points in 18 games for Syracuse in 1995-96 and 1996-97) - in a 24-9 win against the New England Patriots in 1999. . . . New York Jets DE Jason Taylor (averaged 8 ppg and 5.4 rpg for Akron in 1994-95) recorded a safety in a 22-17 win against the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2010. . . . Kansas City Chiefs FL Otis Taylor (backup small forward for Prairie View A&M) caught a touchdown pass in each of last three games of his rookie season in 1965. . . . Baltimore Ravens LB Adalius Thomas (averaged 2.9 ppg and 1.9 rpg for Southern Mississippi in 1996-97 and 1997-98) scored a touchdown on 35-yard fumble recovery return in 48-3 win against the Green Bay Packers in 2005. . . . E Will Walls (starting forward with TCU for three years from 1935 through 1937) had one of the New York Giants' four pass receptions in a 28-0 setback against the Washington Redskins in 1943 NFL championship game. . . . Minnesota Vikings CB Charlie West (collected two points and one rebound in two UTEP games in 1967-68 under Don Haskins) had a league-high 89-yard interception return in 27-10 win against the Chicago Bears in 1971 regular-season finale. . . . San Diego Chargers DB Bud Whitehead (averaged 2.8 ppg and 2.5 rpg in 15 games for Florida State in 1959-60) had two interceptions in a 24-14 win against the Oakland Raiders in 1965.
20: Carolina Panthers rookie TE Luther Broughton (forward scored five points in five games for Furman in 1994-95) scored the go-ahead touchdown with a 68-yard reception in fourth quarter of 20-13 win against the St. Louis Rams in 1998. . . . QB Len Dawson (Purdue hooper in 1956-57) threw a 19-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter to give the Kansas City Chiefs a 13-6 playoff win against the New York Jets in 1969. . . . San Francisco 49ers WR Bruce Ellington (South Carolina's leading scorer as freshman point guard with 12.8 ppg in 2010-11 before averaging 11.1 ppg as sophomore) scored two touchdowns - one receiving/one rushing - in a 38-35 setback against the San Diego Chargers in 2014. . . . New York Giants DB Percy Ellsworth (appeared in all four of Virginia's NCAA tourney contests for 1995 Midwest Regional finalist) had two interceptions - including one for a 43-yard touchdown - in a 28-7 win against the Kansas City Chiefs in 1998. . . . Tennessee Titans WR Justin Gage (averaged 2.1 ppg and 2.9 rpg for Missouri from 1999-00 through 2001-02) caught two first-half touchdown passes from Vince Young in a 27-24 win against the Miami Dolphins in 2009. . . . San Diego Chargers TE Antonio Gates (second-team All-MAC selection in 2002 when Kent State finished runner-up in South Regional) caught two second-half touchdown passes from Philip Rivers in a 38-35 win against the San Francisco 49ers in 2014. . . . Minnesota Vikings TE Andrew Glover (All-SWAC second-team selection as senior in 1990-91 when leading Grambling with 16.2 ppg and 8.6 rpg while pacing league in field-goal shooting) caught two touchdown passes from Randall Cunningham in a 50-10 win against the Jacksonville Jaguars in 1998. . . . Baltimore Ravens TE Todd Heap (grabbed 14 rebounds in 11 games for Arizona State in 1999-00) caught two first-quarter touchdown passes from Joe Flacco in a 31-7 win against the Chicago Bears in 2009. . . . San Diego Chargers WR Vincent Jackson (Northern Colorado's scoring leader with 13.6 ppg in 2003-04 while also contributing 5.6 rpg and 3.1 apg) caught two touchdown passes from Philip Rivers in a 27-24 win against the Cincinnati Bengals in 2009. . . . Tampa Bay Buccaneers QB Brad Johnson (part-time starting forward for Florida State as freshman in 1987-88 when averaging 5.9 ppg and shooting 89.1% from free-throw line) passed for 346 yards and four touchdowns in a 30-28 setback against the Atlanta Falcons in 2003. . . . Phoenix Cardinals RB Johnny Johnson (averaged 11.2 ppg, 6.5 rpg and 3.2 apg in 1988-89 after majority of hoop team members walked off San Jose State squad) rushed for 146 yards in a 16-13 setback against the Indianapolis Colts in 1992. . . . Philadelphia Eagles QB Donovan McNabb (averaged 2.3 points in 18 games for Syracuse in 1995-96 and 1996-97) passed for 306 yards in a 27-13 win against the San Francisco 49ers in 2009. . . . Houston Oilers QB Gifford Nielsen (BYU swingman averaged 6.5 ppg and 2.7 rpg in 1973-74 and 1974-75) passed for a career-high 377 yards - including three touchdowns to Dave Casper - in a 21-20 win against the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1981. . . . Kansas City Chiefs WR Stan Rome (All-ACC second-team choice as Clemson junior averaged from 10.4 to 15.3 ppg while hitting 53% of FGAs from 1974-75 through 1977-78) scored the game's lone touchdown with a 15-yard pass reception in a 10-6 win against the Minnesota Vikings in 1981. . . . Philadelphia Eagles QB Norm Snead (averaged 7.8 ppg in four Wake Forest games as senior in 1960-61) threw two first-half touchdown passes in a 30-20 win against the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1970. . . . Minnesota Vikings DB Charlie West (collected two points and one rebound in two UTEP games in 1967-68 under coach Don Haskins) returned a kickoff 66 yards in 37-7 win against the Atlanta Falcons in 1970.
21: Cleveland Browns DB Erich Barnes (played hoops briefly for Purdue as sophomore in 1955-56) had an interception in a 31-20 playoff win against the Dallas Cowboys in 1968. . . . Chicago Bears QB Young Bussey (LSU hoops letterman in late 1930s) completed his lone pass in the 1941 NFL championship game for eight yards in a 37-9 win against the New York Giants. George Halas (starting guard for Illinois' Big Ten Conference titlist in 1916-17) coached the Bears. TB Tuffy Leemans (three-year hoops letterman for George Washington in mid-1930s) passed for 73 yards and chipped in with a Giants-high 52 rushing yards. Bears B Ray Nolting (Cincinnati hoops letterman in 1936) rushed for 13 yards on four carries. Bears E Dick Plasman (Vanderbilt two-year starting center named to 1936 All-SEC Tournament second five) had a game-high 48 receiving yards on two catches. . . . Los Angeles Rams rookie E Bob Carey (forward-center averaged 8.8 ppg in three-year Michigan State career in early 1950s) had three pass receptions for 30 yards in 31-21 setback against the Detroit Lions in 1952 playoff game. Rams S Norb Hecker (four-sport letterman including hoops with Baldwin-Wallace OH) returned an interception 20 yards. Lions HB Doak Walker (SMU hoops letterman as freshman in 1945-46) threw a 24-yard touchdown pass and had two receptions for 75 yards. . . . Pittsburgh Steelers TB Johnny Clement (SMU hoops letterman in 1940) had a team-high 59 rushing yards in a 21-0 playoff setback against the Philadelphia Eagles in 1947. Steelers E Elbie Nickel (Cincinnati's second-leading scorer in 1942 also earned hoop letter in 1947) had team-high 32 receiving yards. Eagles HB Bosh Pritchard (four-sport letterman for VMI) returned a punt 79 yards for touchdown. . . . San Diego Chargers TE Antonio Gates (second-team All-MAC selection in 2002 when Kent State finished runner-up in South Regional) caught two touchdown passes from Philip Rivers in a 41-24 win against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2008. . . . Chicago Bears rookie TE Greg Latta (two-year Morgan State letterman averaged 9.3 ppg and 5.4 rpg in 15 games in 1970-71) caught three touchdown passes in a 42-17 win against the New Orleans Saints in 1975. . . . Philadelphia Eagles DB Joe Lavender (averaged 13.4 ppg and 6.6 rpg for San Diego State in 1969-70 and 1970-71) returned an interception 36 yards for a touchdown in a 26-3 win against the Washington Redskins in 1975. Five years later as a member of the Redskins, Lavender had two interceptions in a 31-7 win against the St. Louis Cardinals in 1980. . . . Houston Oilers CB Zeke Moore (Lincoln MO hoops letterman in mid-1960s) had an interception in 56-7 playoff setback against the Oakland Raiders in 1969. . . . Minnesota Vikings rookie TE Joe Senser (two-time NCAA Division I leader in FG% averaged 11.4 ppg and 7.4 rpg while shooting 66.2% from floor in four-year career for West Chester State PA) caught two first-half touchdown passes from Tommy Kramer in a 20-16 setback against the Houston Oilers in 1980 season finale. . . . Denver Broncos WR Rod Smith (swingman was Missouri Southern State hoops letterman as sophomore in 1990-91) caught two second-quarter touchdown passes from John Elway in a 38-3 win against the San Diego Chargers in 1997. . . . Houston Oilers CB Greg Stemrick (played in two basketball games for Colorado State in 1973-74) was credited with an interception in his third consecutive contest in 1980 season finale. . . . Miami Dolphins DE Jason Taylor (averaged 8 ppg and 5.4 rpg for Akron in 1994-95) had three sacks in a 20-3 win against the Buffalo Bills in 2003. . . . Miami Dolphins WR Lamar Thomas (collected 16 points and 4 rebounds in four games for Miami FL in 1990-91) had six pass receptions for 136 yards - including three touchdowns from Dan Marino - in a 31-21 win against the Denver Broncos in 1998. Thomas had multiple catches in all but one of 15 regular-season games. . . . Detroit Lions SS Charlie West (collected two points and one rebound in two UTEP games in 1967-68 under Don Haskins) returned two punts for 47 yards in a 24-13 setback against the St. Louis Cardinals in 1975 finale. . . . TE Bob Windsor (played two games for Kentucky in 1965-66 under coach Adolph Rupp) caught 22-yard touchdown pass from John Brodie in the fourth quarter to power the San Francisco 49ers to a 14-13 win against the Philadelphia Eagles in 1969.
22: Kansas City Chiefs QB Len Dawson (Purdue hooper in 1956-57) threw four touchdown passes -including 82-yarder to Frank Jackson - in a 48-0 win against the New York Jets in 1963. . . . Carolina Panthers DE Greg Hardy (Ole Miss backup forward as freshman in 2006-07) had three sacks in a 17-13 victory against the New Orleans Saints in 2013. . . . Minnesota Vikings QB Joe Kapp (backup forward averaged 1.8 ppg and 1.2 rpg for California's PCC champions in 1957 and 1958) threw two fourth-quarter touchdown passes in a 24-14 playoff setback against the Baltimore Colts in 1968. Vikings DT Gary Larsen (ex-Marine played multiple hoops seasons for Concordia MN in early 1960s) had a sack. Colts TE John Mackey (Syracuse hooper in 1960-61) caught three passes for 92 yards - including a 49-yard TD from Earl Morrall. . . . Pittsburgh Steelers E Cy McClairen (two-time all-league selection scored 36 points for Bethune-Cookman in 1953 SIAC Tournament championship game) opened the game's scoring with a 48-yard touchdown pass reception from Morrall in 27-2 win against the Chicago Cardinals in 1957. . . . San Francisco 49ers rookie E R.C. Owens (led small colleges with 27.1 rpg in 1953-54 while also averaging 23.5 ppg for College of Idaho) opened a playoff game's scoring by catching a 34-yard touchdown pass from Y.A. Tittle in a 31-27 setback against the Detroit Lions in 1957. 49ers E Billy Wilson (averaged 3.3 ppg as senior letterman for San Jose State in 1950-51) caught a 12-yard TD pass from Tittle. . . . New York Yankees TB Ace Parker (Duke hoops letterman in 1936) completed 8-of-18 passes in 14-9 setback against the Cleveland Browns in 1946 NFL championship game. . . . Oakland Raiders WR Art Powell (averaged 10.5 ppg and 8.2 rpg for San Jose State in 1956-57) caught 10 passes for 247 yards - including four touchdowns from Tom Flores - in a 52-49 win against the Houston Oilers in 1963. . . . Kansas City Chiefs FL Otis Taylor (backup small forward for Prairie View A&M) had four pass receptions for 117 yards in a 41-6 setback against the Oakland Raiders in 1968 AFL playoffs. . . . Atlanta Falcons LB Kenny Tippins (made one basket and grabbed six rebounds in three hoops games with Middle Tennessee State in 1989-90) returned an interception 35 yards in 31-27 setback against the Dallas Cowboys in 1991.
23: Neill Armstrong (played one game under legendary Oklahoma A&M coach Hank Iba in 1944) coached the Chicago Bears to a 27-17 wild-card game setback against the Philadelphia Eagles in 1979. Eagles WR Harold Carmichael (starter two seasons for Southern LA averaged 9.8 ppg and 10.6 rpg in 1969-70) caught two touchdown passes. . . . Oakland Raiders WR Ronald Curry (averaged 4.2 ppg, 2.5 rpg and 3 apg for North Carolina in 1998-99 and 2000-01) caught 11 passes in a 20-9 setback against the Kansas City Chiefs in 2006. It was Curry's third consecutive contest with at least eight receptions. . . . Washington Redskins LB London Fletcher (started two games for St. Francis PA as freshman in 1993-94 before transferring to John Carroll OH) had an interception for the third consecutive contest and chipped in with 10 tackles in a 27-20 win against the Philadelphia Eagles in 2012. . . . Kansas City Chiefs TE Tony Gonzalez (averaged 6.4 ppg and 4.3 rpg for California from 1994-95 through 1996-97) caught 10 passes for 137 yards in a 25-20 setback against the Detroit Lions in 2007. . . . Miami Dolphins QB Bob Griese (sophomore guard for Purdue in 1964-65) threw two touchdown passes in a 34-16 playoff win against the Cincinnati Bengals in 1973. . . . Los Angeles Rams rookie Norb Hecker (four-sport letterman including hoops with Baldwin-Wallace OH) had a game-saving tackle in a 24-17 win against the Cleveland Browns in 1951 NFL championship contest. Rams E Elroy "Crazy Legs" Hirsch (starting center for Michigan hoops in 1944) caught four passes for 66 yards. . . . Dallas Cowboys DB Manny Hendrix (All-WAC second-team selection for Utah as senior in 1985-86 averaged 12.1 ppg and team-high 5.1 apg as sophomore) had an interception in a 17-3 setback against the Philadelphia Eagles in 1990. . . . Dallas Texans rookie DE Bill Hull (forward for Wake Forest squad finishing third in 1962 NCAA Tournament averaged 6.5 ppg and 7.3 rpg in two varsity seasons) returned an interception 23 yards to help set up the game-winning field goal in overtime in 20-17 win against the Houston Oilers in 1962 AFL championship game. . . . Tampa Bay Buccaneers QB Brad Johnson (part-time starting forward for Florida State as freshman in 1987-88 when averaging 5.9 ppg and shooting 89.1% from free-throw line) threw three touchdown passes in a 48-21 win against the New Orleans Saints in 2001. . . . Los Angeles Rams TE James McDonald (four-year Southern California letterman in early 1980s averaged 8.2 ppg and 4.8 rpg as senior forward) caught two passes for 18 yards in a 16-13 playoff setback against the New York Giants in 1984. . . . Philadelphia Eagles QB Donovan McNabb (averaged 2.3 points in 18 games for Syracuse in 1995-96 and 1996-97) threw three touchdown passes in a 38-23 win against the New Orleans Saints in 2007. . . . Chicago Bears DE Julius Peppers (averaged 5.7 ppg and 3.7 rpg while shooting 60.7% from floor for North Carolina in 1999-00 and 2000-01) had three sacks in a 28-13 win against the Arizona Cardinals in 2012. . . . Dallas Cowboys QB Roger Staubach (Navy varsity hooper in 1962-63) threw two fourth-quarter touchdown passes in a 30-28 playoff win against the San Francisco 49ers in 1972. The next year, Staubach threw two TD passes - including an 83-yarder to Drew Pearson - in a 27-16 playoff win against the Los Angeles Rams in 1973. . . . San Diego Chargers WR Kitrick Taylor (Washington State hooper in 1984-85 and 1986-87) returned a punt 55 yards for touchdown in 24-21 setback against the Kansas City Chiefs in 1990.
24: Miami Dolphins WR Chris Chambers (played briefly for Wisconsin under coach Dick Bennett in 1997-98) caught two second-quarter touchdown passes in a 24-10 win against the Tennessee Titans in 2005. . . . Los Angeles Rams rookie RB Glenn Davis (Army hooper in 1944-45 and 1945-46) opened the 1950 NFL championship game's scoring with an 82-yard touchdown pass from Bob Waterfield in 30-28 setback against the Cleveland Browns. Browns QB Otto Graham (Big Ten Conference runner-up in scoring as Northwestern sophomore in 1941-42 and junior in 1942-43) completed 22-of-33 passes for 298 yards and four TDs while chipping with 99 rushing yards. . . . Oakland Raiders TE Rickey Dudley (averaged 13.3 ppg and 7.5 rpg as senior in 1994-95 when leading Ohio State in rebounding and finishing third in scoring) caught two touchdown passes from Rich Gannon in a 52-9 win against the Carolina Panthers in 2000. . . . Dallas Cowboys CB Cornell Green (Utah State's all-time leading scorer and rebounder when career ended in 1961-62) returned an interception 60 yards for a touchdown in a 50-14 win against the Cleveland Browns in 1967 playoff game. . . . San Diego Chargers rookie WR Vincent Jackson (Northern Colorado's scoring leader with 13.6 ppg in 2003-04 while also contributing 5.6 rpg and 3.1 apg) caught two touchdown passes from Philip Rivers in a 20-7 win against the Seattle Seahawks in 2006. . . . Chicago Bears DB R.W. McQuarters (Oklahoma State hooper in 1995-96 and 1996-97 started two games) returned an interception 61 yards for a touchdown in 23-20 win against the Detroit Lions in 2000. . . . Seattle Seahawks TE Pete Metzelaars (averaged 19.2 ppg and 11.4 rpg for Wabash IN while setting NCAA Division III field-goal shooting records for single season as senior in 1981-82 and career) had a five-yard touchdown reception in a 31-7 playoff win against the Denver Broncos in 1983. . . . Carolina Panthers DE Julius Peppers (averaged 5.7 ppg and 3.7 rpg while shooting 60.7% from floor for North Carolina in 1999-00 and 2000-01) had three sacks in a 24-20 setback against the Dallas Cowboys in 2005. . . . Baltimore Colts WR Freddie Scott (averaged 5.3 ppg as sophomore forward for Amherst MA in 1971-72) had two pass receptions for 45 yards in a 37-31 setback against the Oakland Raiders in 1977 playoff game. . . . New York Jets DE Marvin Washington (played in 1985 NCAA Tournament with UTEP under Don Haskins before averaging 2.9 ppg and 5.7 rpg for Idaho in 1987-88 under Tim Floyd) had an interception in 24-10 setback against the Houston Oilers in 1994. . . . San Diego Chargers rookie DB Bud Whitehead (averaged 2.8 ppg and 2.5 rpg in 15 games for Florida State in 1959-60) had two interceptions in a 10-3 playoff setback against the Houston Oilers in 1961.
25: Kansas City Chiefs TE Tony Gonzalez (averaged 6.4 ppg and 4.3 rpg for California from 1994-95 through 1996-97) caught 11 of his league-high 102 passes - including two second-quarter touchdowns - in a 31-30 win against the Oakland Raiders in 2004. . . . Minnesota Vikings QB Brad Johnson (part-time starting forward for Florida State as freshman in 1987-88 when averaging 5.9 ppg and shooting 89.1% from free-throw line) threw two first-half touchdown passes in a 30-23 setback against the Baltimore Colts in 2005.
26: Washington Redskins QB Sammy Baugh (TCU three-year hoops letterman was All-SWC honorable mention selection as senior in 1936-37) threw two second-half touchdown passes in a 41-21 playoff setback against the Chicago Bears in 1943. Bears E Jim Benton (forward was Arkansas' third-leading scorer in SWC play as senior in 1937-38) caught a 26-yard touchdown pass from Sid Luckman. Luke Johnsos (Northwestern hoops letterman in 1927 and 1928) co-coached the Bears. Bears B Ray Nolting (Cincinnati hoops letterman in 1936) rushed for 30 yards on seven carries and returned two punts for 17 yards. . . . Rookie FB Bill Bowman (fouled out with four points in only basketball game with William & Mary in 1953-54) scored the Detroit Lions' only touchdown (five-yard rush) in a 56-10 setback against the Cleveland Browns in 1954 NFL championship game. Bowman also had a 50-yard run from scrimmage in the contest. Browns DE Len Ford (center for Morgan State's CIAA hoops titlist in 1944) returned two interceptions a total of 45 yards. Browns E Pete Brewster (forward-center was Purdue's fourth-leading scorer as junior and senior) caught an eight-yard TD pass and 45-yard reception from Otto Graham (Big Ten Conference runner-up in scoring as Northwestern sophomore in 1941-42 and junior in 1942-43). Graham threw three first-half TD passes and rushed for three TDs. The next year, Graham threw two TD passes (50 and 35 yards) and rushed for two TDs while Ford had another INT in a 38-14 win against the Los Angeles Rams in 1955 NFL title tilt. . . . A fourth-quarter touchdown reception by TE Tony Gonzalez (averaged 6.4 ppg and 4.3 rpg for California from 1994-95 through 1996-97) carried the Kansas City Chiefs to a 31-24 win against the Oakland Raiders in 1998. . . . RB Paul Hornung (averaged 6.1 ppg in 10 contests for Notre Dame in 1954-55) opened the Green Bay Packers' scoring with a rushing touchdown in a 13-10 playoff win against the Baltimore Colts in 1965. . . . QB Brad Johnson (part-time starting forward for Florida State as freshman in 1987-88 when averaging 5.9 ppg and shooting 89.1% from free-throw line) passed for 471 yards - including 33-yarder for touchdown in overtime - to give the Washington Redskins a 26-20 win against the San Francisco 49ers in 1999. . . . New York Jets RB Johnny Johnson (averaged 11.2 ppg, 6.5 rpg and 3.2 apg in 1988-89 after majority of hoop team members walked off San Jose State squad) totaled 175 yards in rushing (94 on 16 carries) and pass receiving (81 on eight catches) in a 16-14 setback against the Buffalo Bills in 1993. . . . Houston Texans WR Jacoby Jones (part-time starter averaged 3.4 ppg and 3.7 rpg for Lane TN in 2004-05 and 2005-06) had five pass receptions for 115 yards in a 24-23 setback against the Denver Broncos in 2010. . . . Washington Redskins QB Billy Kilmer (UCLA hooper under legendary coach John Wooden in 1959-60) threw two touchdown passes in a 24-20 playoff setback against the San Francisco 49ers in 1971. . . . Cleveland Browns RB Terry Kirby (averaged 3.4 ppg as Virginia freshman in 1989-90 and 2.1 as sophomore in 1990-91) rushed for two touchdowns in a 29-28 setback against the Indianapolis Colts in 1999. . . . Chicago Bears TE Greg Latta (two-year Morgan State letterman averaged 9.3 ppg and 5.4 rpg in 15 games in 1970-71) had two pass receptions for 25 yards in a 37-7 playoff setback against the Dallas Cowboys in 1977. . . . San Francisco 49ers DB Ronnie Lott (USC hooper as junior in 1979-80) returned an interception 83 yards for fourth-quarter touchdown in 26-13 win against the Kansas City Chiefs in 1982. . . . Houston Texans LB Antwan Peek (made one field goal and grabbed five rebounds in six basketball games for Cincinnati in 2000-01 under coach Bob Huggins) returned a recovered fumble 66 yards for touchdown in 21-0 win against the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2004. . . . Minnesota Vikings TE Joe Senser (two-time NCAA Division I leader in FG% averaged 11.4 ppg and 7.4 rpg while shooting 66.2% from floor in four-year career for West Chester State PA) caught 10 passes in a 42-14 setback against the New York Jets in 1982. . . . Cincinnati Bengals WR David Verser (played five basketball games for Kansas in 1977-78 under coach Ted Owens) caught a 56-yard touchdown pass from Ken Anderson (swingman finished Augustana IL career in early 1970s as fifth-leading scorer in school history with 1,044 points) in 24-10 win against the Seattle Seahawks in 1982. . . . San Francisco 49ers TE Bob Windsor (played two games for Kentucky in 1965-66 under coach Adolph Rupp) caught a touchdown pass from John Brodie in 24-20 playoff win against the Washington Redskins in 1971.
27: Detroit Lions E Cloyce Box (combined with twin brother Boyce to help West Texas win Border Conference hoop championship in 1943) caught four passes for 54 yards in a 17-16 win against the Cleveland Browns in 1953 NFL championship contest. Lions QB Bobby Layne (Texas hooper in 1944-45) threw a 33-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter. Lions HB Doak Walker (SMU hoops letterman as freshman in 1945-46) opened the game's scoring with a rushing TD. . . . Cleveland Browns FB Jim Brown (#2-scorer with 14 ppg for Syracuse as sophomore in 1954-55 before averaging 11.3 as junior) rushed for 114 yards on 27 carries in 1964 NFL championship game (27-0 against Baltimore Colts). It was Brown's lone playoff win. . . . Weeb Ewbank (hoops letterman for Miami OH in 1926-27 and 1927-28) coached the Baltimore Colts to a 31-16 victory against the New York Giants in 1959 NFL championship game. Colts DB Johnny Sample (freshman hooper for UMES) had two interceptions - returning one 42 yards for a touchdown. . . . Miami Dolphins QB Bob Griese (sophomore guard for Purdue in 1964-65) threw two touchdown passes in a 21-14 playoff setback against the Oakland Raiders in 1970. . . . Baltimore Ravens TE Todd Heap (grabbed 14 rebounds in 11 games for Arizona State in 1999-00) caught two touchdown passes from Joe Flacco for the second straight week in 2009. . . . Philadelphia Eagles QB Donovan McNabb (averaged 2.3 points in 18 games for Syracuse in 1995-96 and 1996-97) threw three touchdown passes in a 31-7 win against the Washington Redskins in 2003. Six years later, McNabb passed for 322 yards and three TDs in a 30-27 win against the Denver Broncos in 2009. . . . San Francisco 49ers DB R.W. McQuarters (Oklahoma State hooper in 1995-96 and 1996-97 started two games) returned a punt 72 yards for touchdown in 38-19 win against the St. Louis Rams in 1998. . . . Denver Broncos WR Rod Smith (swingman was Missouri Southern State hoops letterman as sophomore in 1990-91) caught a 43-yard touchdown pass from John Elway in a 42-17 playoff win against the Jacksonville Jaguars in 1997. The next year, Smith had nine pass receptions for 158 yards in a 28-21 win against the Seattle Seahawks in 1998.
28: Cincinnati Bengals QB Ken Anderson (swingman finished Augustana IL career in early 1970s as fifth-leading scorer in school history with 1,044 points) threw two fourth-quarter touchdown passes in a 31-28 playoff setback against the Oakland Raiders in 1975. . . . Philadelphia Eagles E Neill Armstrong (played one game under legendary Oklahoma A&M coach Hank Iba in 1944) caught two passes for 16 yards, E Dick Humbert (three-year starter captained Richmond as senior in 1940-41 when averaging 7.4 ppg) caught two passes for 30 yards and HB Bosh Pritchard (four-sport letterman for VMI) caught three passes for 37 yards in a 28-21 setback against the Chicago Cardinals in 1947 NFL championship game. Cardinals E Billy Dewell (three-time All-SWC first-team pick for SMU in late 1930s) caught a team-long 38-yard pass from Paul Christman. . . . Cleveland Browns rookie E Pete Brewster (forward-center was Purdue's fourth-leading scorer as junior and senior) had a game-high 53 receiving yards in 17-7 setback against the Detroit Lions in 1952 NFL championship contest. Lions QB Bobby Layne (Texas hooper in 1944-45) opened the game's scoring with a two-yard rushing touchdown. Lions HB Doak Walker (SMU hoops letterman as freshman in 1945-46) had a team-high 97 rushing yards featuring 67-yard TD. . . . Miami Dolphins WR Chris Chambers (played briefly for Wisconsin under coach Dick Bennett in 1997-98) caught nine passes for 153 yards in a 23-21 win against the New York Jets in 2003. . . . Buffalo Bills FL Elbert Dubenion (solid rebounder and defensive player for Bluffton OH in late 1950s) caught a 93-yard touchdown pass from Daryle Lamonica in a 26-8 setback against the Boston Patriots in 1963 AFL playoff contest. . . . Weeb Ewbank (hoops letterman for Miami OH in 1926-27 and 1927-28) coached the Baltimore Colts to a 23-17 overtime victory against the New York Giants in 1958 NFL championship game. . . . Oakland Raiders DB Ronnie Lott (USC hooper as junior in 1979-80) returned an interception 35 yards in 10-6 playoff setback against the Kansas City Chiefs following 1991 season. . . . Philadelphia Eagles QB Donovan McNabb (averaged 2.3 points in 18 games for Syracuse in 1995-96 and 1996-97) threw two second-quarter touchdown passes in a 44-6 win against the Dallas Cowboys in 2008. . . . Miami Dolphins RB Jerris McPhail (starting point guard for Mount Olive NC with 11 ppg in early 1990s) had five pass receptions in a 17-3 setback against the New England Patriots in 1997 playoff game. . . . WR Nate Poole (sank all four free-throw attempts in two basketball games for Marshall in 1997-98) caught a 28-yard touchdown pass from QB Josh McCown with no time remaining to give the Arizona Cardinals an 18-17 win against the Minnesota Vikings in 2003 regular-season finale. . . . Andre Rison (backup hoops guard for Michigan State in 1987-88) got the Atlanta Falcons on the scoreboard with a 24-yard touchdown reception in 27-20 playoff win against the New Orleans Saints in 1991.
29: Baltimore Colts DE Ordell Braase (first-team All-NCC pick for South Dakota in 1952-53 and 1953-54) had three sacks in a 34-0 playoff win against the Cleveland Browns in 1968. . . . George Halas (starting guard for Illinois' Big Ten Conference hoops titlist in 1916-17) coached the Chicago Bears to a 14-10 win against the New York Giants in 1963 NFL championship contest. Giants starting SS Dick Pesonen (two-year Minnesota-Duluth hoops letterman was starting guard in 1959-60) recovered a fumble. . . . Carolina Panthers DE Greg Hardy (Ole Miss backup forward as freshman in 2006-07) had four sacks and five tackles in a 21-20 victory against the Atlanta Falcons in 2013. . . . Baltimore Ravens TE Todd Heap (grabbed 14 rebounds in 11 games for Arizona State in 1999-00) caught seven passes for 146 yards in a 34-31 setback against the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2002. . . . Detroit Lions RB John Henry Johnson (made 5-of-8 FGAs in five games for Saint Mary's in 1950-51) rushed for 34 yards on seven carries and caught one pass for 16 yards in a 59-14 win against the Cleveland Browns in 1957 NFL championship game. Lions QB Jerry Reichow (Iowa hooper in 1954-55) threw a 16-yard touchdown pass. . . . San Francisco 49ers DB Ronnie Lott (USC hooper as junior in 1979-80) returned an interception 38 yards in 21-10 playoff win against the New York Giants in 1984. . . . Houston Oilers QB Gifford Nielsen (BYU swingman averaged 6.5 ppg and 2.7 rpg in 1973-74 and 1974-75) threw a go-ahead 47-yard touchdown pass to Mike Renfro in 17-14 playoff win against the San Diego Chargers in 1979. . . . TE Marcus Pollard (JC transfer averaged 7.3 ppg and 5 rpg for Bradley in 1992-93 and 1993-94) caught an 11-yard touchdown pass from Peyton Manning with 2:26 remaining in the fourth quarter to give the Indianapolis Colts a 20-13 win against Jacksonville Jaguars in 2002.
30: FB Rick Casares (Florida's scoring and rebounding leader both seasons as All-SEC second-team selection in 1951-52 and 1952-53) contributed the Chicago Bears' lone touchdown with a nine-yard rush in a 47-7 setback against the New York Giants in 1956 NFL championship game. Bears E Harlon Hill (Florence State AL hoops letterman in 1951) had six catches for team-high 87 receiving yards. . . . Cincinnati Bengals LB James Francis (averaged 3 ppg and 3.6 rpg for Baylor in 1986-87 and 1987-88) returned an interception 17 yards for a touchdown in 21-14 win against the Cleveland Browns in 1990. . . . Kansas City Chiefs TE Tony Gonzalez (averaged 6.4 ppg and 4.3 rpg for California from 1994-95 through 1996-97) caught two touchdown passes in a 30-26 win against the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2001. . . . New Orleans Saints TE Jimmy Graham (part-time starter for Miami FL averaged 4.2 ppg and 4.2 rpg from 2005-06 through 2008-09) caught nine passes for 115 yards in a 44-38 setback against the Carolina Panthers in 2012. . . . New Orleans Saints WR Willie Jackson (started five hoops games for Florida in 1989-90) caught three second-half touchdown passes in a 31-28 playoff win against the St. Louis Rams in 2000. . . . Dallas Cowboys DE Too Tall Jones (backup center averaged 1.7 ppg and 2.6 rpg for Tennessee State in 1969-70 and 1970-71) had two sacks in a 27-20 win against the Atlanta Falcons in 1978 NFC divisional playoffs. Falcons CB Rolland Lawrence (captain of Tabor KS hoops squad as senior in 1972-73) had an interception. . . . Jacksonville Jaguars WR Matt Jones (started two of his 11 Arkansas games in 2001-02 when averaging 4.2 ppg and 2.3 rpg and 10 of 17 in 2003-04 when averaging 5 ppg and 4.5 rpg) caught eight passes for 138 yards in a 42-28 setback against the Houston Texans in 2007. . . . Minnesota Vikings DT Gary Larsen (ex-Marine played multiple hoops seasons for Concordia MN in early 1960s) had a sack in 27-10 win against the Dallas Cowboys in 1973 playoff contest. . . . Philadelphia Eagles QB Donovan McNabb (averaged 2.3 points in 18 games for Syracuse in 1995-96 and 1996-97) threw three touchdown passes in a 24-21 win against the New York Giants in 2001. Six years later, McNabb passed for 345 yards in a 17-9 win against the Buffalo Bills in 2007. . . . St. Louis Rams rookie LB Tommy Polley (played in one basketball game for Florida State in 1996-97 under coach Pat Kennedy) had 11 solo tackles in a 42-17 win against the Indianapolis Colts in 2001. . . . Jacksonville Jaguars WR Micah Ross (Jacksonville's leading scorer, rebounder and FG% shooter as senior in 1997-98) returned four kickoffs in a 30-26 setback against the Kansas City Chiefs in 2001. . . . New York Giants WR Del Shofner (Baylor hoops letterman in 1956) caught five passes for 69 yards in a 16-7 playoff setback against the Green Bay Packers in 1962. . . . San Francisco 49ers WR Tai Streets (collected four points and seven rebounds in 13 games for Michigan's NIT titlist in 1997 under coach Steve Fisher) had two second-quarter touchdown receptions in a 31-20 setback against the St. Louis Rams in 2002 season finale.
31: Green Bay Packers RB Paul Hornung (averaged 6.1 ppg in 10 contests for Notre Dame in 1954-55) opened the game's scoring with a six-yard rushing touchdown in 37-0 playoff win against the New York Giants in 1961 NFL championship contest. Packers E Ron Kramer (three-time All-Big Ten Conference selection was Michigan's MVP each season and All-American as senior in 1956-57) had game highs of four pass receptions and 80 receiving yards - including two touchdowns from Bart Starr. Giants WR Del Shofner (Baylor hoops letterman in 1956) caught three passes for 41 yards. . . . Washington Redskins QB Billy Kilmer (UCLA hooper under legendary coach John Wooden in 1959-60) threw two touchdown passes in a 26-3 playoff win against the Dallas Cowboys in 1972. . . . Philadelphia Eagles QB Donovan McNabb (averaged 2.3 points in 18 games for Syracuse in 1995-96 and 1996-97) threw two touchdown passes in a 21-3 playoff win against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2000.
Impact of former college hoopers on professional football in November
Impact of former college hoopers on professional football in October
Impact of former college hoopers on professional football in September
On This Date: December Calendar for Premier Games in NCAA Hoops History
Did You Know?: Marquee mentors John Beilein (Canisius), Vic Bubas (Duke), Denny Crum (Louisville), Bob Knight (Army), Guy Lewis (Houston), Ralph Miller (Wichita), Digger Phelps (Notre Dame) and Jerry Tarkanian (UNLV) lost their head coaching debuts with these schools between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Trivia buffs might also want to know bitter rivals Kentucky and Louisville each had their school rebounding record by an individual set on the same day in 1955.
Prominent players don't establish most of the school standards against lesser lights in non-conference competition. For instance, Utah's Billy McGill and Illinois' Skip Thoren set school single-game rebounding records in the early 1960s when each of them retrieved 24 missed shots against UCLA before the Bruins began their run of NCAA titles under legendary coach John Wooden.
Granted, fewer contests are played around Christmas but there clearly is a significant decrease in superior performances during that span. Holiday festivities can go awry between Christmas and New Year's Eve. Just ask top-ranked Virginia, which lost at tiny Chaminade in 1982, and NCAA champion-to-be Michigan, which bowed to Alaska-Anchorage on a neutral court in 1988. Following is a day-by-day calendar citing memorable moments in December college basketball history:
DECEMBER
1 - Eastern Kentucky's Jack Adams (49 points vs. Union in 1955), Iona's A.J. English (46 vs. Fairfield in 2015), Louisville's Wes Unseld (45 vs. Georgetown College KY in 1967) and NYU's Jim Signorile (50 vs. Herbert Lehman NY in 1969) set school Division I single-game scoring records. English's output tied a MAAC game mark. . . . Ronnie Shavlik (55 points vs. William & Mary in 1954 set North Carolina State's single-game scoring record against a major-college opponent. . . . Vic Bubas made his Duke head coaching debut in 1959 with a 59-49 loss against Georgia Tech before guiding the Blue Devils to three Final Fours in a four-year span in the mid-1960s. . . . Pete Carril made his Princeton debut in 1967 with a 62-59 win against Army en route to becoming the Tigers' all-time winningest coach and capturing the Ivy League's only NIT championship (1975). . . . Denny Crum made his Louisville head coaching debut in 1971 with a 70-69 defeat at Florida before amassing a school-record 675 victories. . . . Eddie Sutton made his Creighton head coaching debut in 1969 with an 84-62 decision over Wisconsin-Oshkosh en route to 802 victories with five schools. . . . Jerry Tarkanian made his UNLV head coaching debut in 1973 with an 82-76 defeat against Texas Tech before notching a school-record 509 victories with the Rebels. . . . Ralph Miller made his Wichita head coaching debut in 1951 with a 62-55 defeat at Colorado before registering 657 victories with three schools. . . . Guy Lewis made his Houston head coaching debut in 1956 with a 97-78 defeat at Kansas State before compiling a school-record 592 victories. . . . Al McGuire made his Marquette debut in 1964 with a 69-49 triumph over St. Thomas MN en route to becoming the Warriors' all-time winningest coach. . . . Bob Knight made his Indiana debut in 1971 with an 84-77 triumph over Ball State en route to becoming the Hoosiers' all-time winningest coach. . . . Digger Phelps made his Notre Dame debut in 1971 with a 101-83 defeat against Michigan before compiling a school-record 393 victories. . . . Frank McGuire made his South Carolina coaching debut in 1964 with a 76-59 triumph against Erskine SC en route to a school-record 283 victories. . . . John Beilein made his Canisius coaching debut in 1992 with a 110-62 defeat at Duke before going on to win more than 20 games in a single season with four different DI schools. . . . Bob Nichols made his Toledo coaching debut in 1965 with a 108-77 triumph against Baldwin-Wallace OH en route to a school-record 375 victories. . . . Oregon's school-record 46-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Boise State (73-70 in 2017). . . . Lynn Howden (24 vs. Florida State in 1970) set Texas' single-game rebounding record against a major-college opponent.
2 - Eventual NCAA all-time scoring leader Pete Maravich collected 48 points and career-high 16 rebounds in his LSU varsity debut (97-81 win against Tampa in 1967). . . . Northern Arizona's Cory Schwab (43 points at Cal Poly in overtime in 2000) and Wisconsin's Christian Steinmetz (50 at Sparta's Company C in 1904) set school Division I single-game scoring records. . . . Dean Smith made his North Carolina head coaching debut in 1961 with an 80-46 decision over Virginia en route to a school-record 879 victories. . . . Norm Stewart made his Missouri head coaching debut in 1967 with a 74-58 success at Arkansas en route to a school-record 634 victories with the Tigers. . . . Don Haskins made his Texas Western head coaching debut in 1961 with a 66-59 triumph at Iowa State en route to a school-record 719 victories. . . . Terry Holland made his Virginia coaching debut in 1974 with a 77-69 victory against Washington & Lee VA en route to a school-record 326 victories. . . . Phil Martelli made his Saint Joseph's debut in 1995 with a 64-56 success at Delaware en route to becoming the Hawks' all-time winningest coach and national COY in 2004.
3 - Wisconsin-Milwaukee's Von McDade (50 points at Illinois in double overtime in 1990) set school single-game scoring record. . . . DeWayne Russell (42 vs. Louisville in 2016) set Grand Canyon's DI single-game scoring record. . . . Lew Alcindor collected 56 points and 21 rebounds vs. Southern California in his varsity debut with UCLA in 1966. . . . John Wooden made his UCLA head coaching debut in 1948 with a 43-37 decision over UC Santa Barbara en route to a school-record 620 victories with the Bruins. . . . Lefty Driesell made his Davidson head coaching debut in 1960 with a 65-59 decision over Wake Forest en route to 786 victories with four schools. . . . Everett Case made his North Carolina State coaching debut in 1946 with a 63-28 decision over the Cherry Point Marines en route to a school-record 377 victories with the Wolfpack. . . . Arizona State's Mark Landsberger (27 vs. San Diego State in 1976), Jacksonville's Artis Gilmore (34 vs. St. Peter's in 1970) and UMKC's Tony Berg (23 vs. Baylor in 1996) set school single-game rebounding records.
4 - Mississippi State's Bailey Howell (47 points vs. Union TN in 1958) and Northwestern State's Billy Reynolds (42 at Lamar in 1976) set school Division I single-game scoring records. . . . Brown's Ed Tooley shot an NCAA-record 36 free throws in a single game in 1954. . . . Long Beach State's school-record 75-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by San Francisco (94-84 in overtime in 1974). . . . Lou Carnesecca made his St. John's coaching debut in 1965 with a 64-62 triumph at Georgetown in overtime en route to a school-record 526 victories. . . . Bob Knight made his Army head coaching debut in 1965 with a 70-49 setback at Princeton before becoming Indiana's all-time winningest coach, capturing three NCAA championships with the Hoosiers in a 12-year span and compiling 899 victories. . . . UCLA's season-opening defeat by 27 points (110-83 at Illinois in 1964) was worst-ever for a team going on to capture an NCAA championship. . . . Marv Branstrom (28 vs. Arizona State in 1958) set San Jose State's single-game rebounding record.
5 - Kansas' Wilt Chamberlain (52 points vs. Northwestern in 1956), North Carolina State's David Thompson (57 vs. Buffalo State in 1974), Rider's Ron Simpson (48 at St. Francis NY in double overtime in 1987) and Washington State's Brian Quinnett (45 vs. Loyola Marymount in 1986 Amana Hawkeye Classic at Iowa City) set school Division I single-game scoring records. Chamberlain also grabbed 31 rebounds in his varsity debut, establishing an NCAA standard for most boards in first career game. . . . Charlotte's school-record 60-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Appalachian State (71-64 in 1977). . . . Dale Brown made his LSU head coaching debut in 1972 with a 94-81 triumph against Memphis State en route to a school-record 448 victories. . . . Harry Combes made his Illinois coaching debut in 1947 with a 67-27 success against Coe College IA before directing the Illini to three Final Fours in a four-year span from 1949 through 1952. . . . Shelby Metcalf made his Texas A&M head coaching debut in 1963 with a 61-58 triumph against Houston en route to a school-record 438 victories. . . . Gene Estes (24 vs. Texas Western in 1960) set Tulsa's single-game rebounding record against a major-college opponent.
6 - American's Russell "Boo" Bowers (45 points at Harvard in 1980), Nebraska-Omaha's Devin Patterson (41 at Montana State in 2015), Old Dominion's Alex Loughton (45 vs. Charlotte in double overtime in 2003), Rice's Doug McKendrick (47 vs. Georgia Tech in 1965) and Texas-San Antonio's Roderic Hall (52 vs. Maine in consolation game of 1997 Southwest Missouri Tournament at Springfield, Mo.) set school Division I single-game scoring records. . . . Kent State's Doug Grayson set an NCAA single-game record by hitting 16 consecutive field-goal attempts vs. North Carolina in 1967. . . . Indiana's school-record 35-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Kentucky (66-51 in 1976). . . . Bob Presley (27 vs. St. Mary's in 1967) set California's single-game rebounding record.
7 - Niagara's Calvin Murphy (68 points vs. Syracuse in 1968) and St. Mary's Jim Moore (43 vs. Sacramento State in 1964) set school Division I single-game scoring records. . . . Forest Arnold (46 points vs. Hardin-Simmons in 1955) set Memphis State's single-game scoring record against a major-college opponent. . . . Cincinnati's school-record 86-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Kansas (51-47 in 1963), Jacksonville's school-record 35-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Florida State (90-83 in 1971) and Tulsa's school-record 36-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Oklahoma State (93-75 in 1982). . . . Benny Becton (29 vs. Maine in 1962) set Vermont's single-game rebounding record.
8 - Davidson's Fred Hetzel (53 points vs. Furman in 1964), Morgan State's James McCoy (38 vs. Georgia State in semifinals of 1989 Godfather's Pizza Classic at Chattanooga, Tenn.), Rutgers' Bob Lloyd (51 at Delaware in 1965) and Wright State's Bill Edwards (45 vs. Morehead State in 1992) set school Division I single-game scoring records. . . . Arizona's school-record 81-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Kansas State (76-57 in 1951) and Missouri's school-record 34-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Arkansas (95-82 in 1990). . . . Colgate's Jack Nichols (26 vs. Cornell in 1956) and Missouri State's Lee Campbell (20 vs. Southern Utah State in 1989) set school single-game rebounding records against DI opponents.
9 - Tony Bolds (41 points vs. Alcorn State in opening round of 1983 Great Busch Shootout at Southern Illinois) set Mercer's Division I single-game scoring record. . . . Utah's school-record 54-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Weber State (79-77 in 2000). . . . Butler's Jeff Blue (23 vs. Michigan in 1961), College of Charleston's Thaddeous Delaney (21 vs. Charleston Southern in 1995), Dayton's Garry Roggenburk (32 vs. Miami Ohio in 1959), Iowa State's Bill Cain (26 vs. Minnesota in 1969), Lafayette's Ron Moyer (33 vs. Gettysburg PA in 1970) and Towson's Junior Hairston (21 vs. Niagara in 2007) set school single-game rebounding records against Division I opponents.
10 - Duke's Danny Ferry (58 points at Miami FL in 1988) and Long Beach State's Ed Ratleff (45 vs. St. Mary's in 1970) set school single-game scoring records. . . . Troy State (28 of 74) and George Mason (16 of 34) combined to set NCAA single-game three-point field-goal records in 1994 for shots made and attempted beyond the arc with Troy State's figures establishing marks for one team. . . . Tulane's school-record 42-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Arkansas (42-41 in 1949). . . . Bucknell's Hal Danzig (29 vs. Lehigh in 1958), Colorado State's Mike Childress (26 vs. Rice in 1970), George Washington's Clyde Burwell (33 vs. Mount St. Mary's in 1973), Kentucky's Bob Burrow (34 vs. Temple in 1955) and Louisville's Charlie Tyra (38 vs. Canisius in 1955) set school single-game rebounding records.
11 - North Carolina A&T's Joe Binion (41 points vs. Livingstone NC in final of 1982 Miller Aggie Classic) and Virginia's Barry Parkhill (51 vs. Baldwin-Wallace OH in 1971) set school Division I single-game scoring records. . . . Louisville's Clifford Rozier set an NCAA single-game record by hitting all 15 of his field-goal attempts against Eastern Kentucky in 1993. . . . Ohio State's school-record 50-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Davidson (95-73 in 1963). . . . Marvin Barnes (28 vs. Fairfield in 1972) set Providence's single-game rebounding record against a DI opponent.
12 - Alabama's Mike Nordholz (50 points vs. Southern Mississippi at 1966 Birmingham Classic), North Dakota State's Ben Woodside (60 vs. Stephen F. Austin in 2008), Radford's Doug Day (43 at Central Connecticut State in 1990), Southern's Tim Roberts (56 vs. Faith Baptist LA in 1994) and Texas Christian's Lee Nailon (53 vs. Mississippi Valley State in first round of 1997 TCU Tournament) set school single-game scoring records. Woodside tied an NCAA mark by converting free throws against SFA. . . . Oklahoma's Mookie Blaylock set an NCAA single-game record with 13 steals vs. Centenary in 1987. . . . Henry "Hank" Iba made his Oklahoma A&M head coaching debut in 1934 with a 24-17 decision over Wichita en route to a school-record 655 victories with the Cowboys. . . . Kent State's Leroy Thompson (31 vs. Case Western OH in 1948) and Weber State's Willie Sojourner (25 vs. West Texas State in 1969) set school single-game rebounding records.
13 - Evansville's inaugural year at the NCAA Division I level ended in tragedy in 1977 when coach Bobby Watson and 13 members of his Purple Aces squad perished in a plane crash shortly after taking off en route to their fifth game of the season. . . . Southern Mississippi's Jerome Arnold (41 points vs. Missouri-Kansas City in 1978), Toledo's Clarke "Pinky" Pittenger (49 at Bluffton OH in 1918) and Tulsa's Willie Biles (48 vs. St. Cloud State MN in 1973) set school Division I single-game scoring records. . . . Phog Allen made his Kansas head coaching debut in 1907 with a 66-22 decision over Ottawa KS en route to a school-record 590 victories with the Jayhawks. . . . Bradley's Barney Cable (28 vs. Canisius in 1955), Eastern Kentucky's Garfield Smith (33 vs. Marshall in 1967) and UALR's Rashad Jones-Jennings (30 vs. Arkansas-Pine Bluff in 2005) set school single-game rebounding records against a DI opponent.
14 - Marshall's Keith Veney set an NCAA single-game record for three-pointers (making 15-of-25 shots from beyond arc vs. Morehead State in 1996).
15 - UC Irvine's Kevin Magee (46 points vs. Loyola Marymount in 1981) and Providence's Marvin Barnes (52 vs. Austin Peay in 1973) set school single-game scoring records. . . . In 1973, Tennessee topped Temple, 11-6, in the lowest-scoring game since introduction of national postseason competition in 1938. . . . La Salle's Michael Brooks set the East Coast Conference single-game scoring record with 51 points at Brigham Young in 1979. . . . Jack Friel made his Washington State debut in 1928 with a 62-18 decision over Lewis-Clark State ID en route to becoming the Cougars' all-time winningest coach. . . . Cal State Fullerton's Kerry Davis (27 vs. Central Michigan in 1975), Colgate's Dick Osborn (26 vs. Yale in 1951), Texas A&M's Vernon Smith and Rynn Wright (21 vs. UNLV in 1978) and Utah State's Wayne Estes (28 vs. Regis CO in 1962) set school single-game rebounding records against DI opponents.
16 - Cal State Fullerton's Bobby Brown (47 points vs. Bethune-Cookman in 2006), Creighton's Bob Portman (51 vs. Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 1967), Murray State's Marcus Brown (45 vs. Washington MO in 1995) and North Carolina's Bob Lewis (49 vs. Florida State in 1965) set school single-game scoring records. . . . In 2000, Illinois guard Cory Bradford set an NCAA record by hitting a three-point field goal in his 74th of 88 consecutive games. . . . St. Joseph's school-record 34-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Fairfield (82-68 in 1966) and Texas-El Paso's school-record 31-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Indiana (69-66 in 1989). . . . Florida State's Dave Cowens (31 vs. LSU in 1967), Mercer's Scott Farley (22 vs. Alabama in 1995), SMU's Ira Terrell (26 vs. New Mexico State in 1975) and UTEP's Jim Barnes (27 vs. Centenary in 1963) set school single-game rebounding records against a major-college opponent.
17 - Furman senior swingman Darrell Floyd set a Southern Conference single-game record with 62 points vs. The Citadel in 1955. . . . Oklahoma's Mookie Blaylock tied his NCAA single-game record with 13 steals vs. Loyola Marymount in 1988. . . . Cincinnati's LaZelle Durden set the Great Midwest Conference single-game scoring record with 45 points at Wyoming in 1994. . . . Illinois ended visiting San Francisco's school-record 60-game winning streak (62-33 in 1957). . . . Denver's Dick Brott (29 vs. Southern California in 1956) and Furman's Bob Thomas (35 vs. The Citadel in 1955) set school single-game rebounding records against a major-college opponent.
18 - Warren Isaac (50 points vs. Bates ME in 1964) set Iona's Division I single-game scoring record. . . . Penn's school-record 34-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Temple (57-52 in 1971). . . . Adolph Rupp made his Kentucky head coaching debut in 1930 with a 67-19 decision over Georgetown College KY en route to a school-record 876 victories. . . . Hec Edmundson made his Washington debut in 1920 with a 30-14 decision over Varsity/Alumni en route to becoming the Huskies' all-time winningest coach. . . . Alabama's Harry Hammonds (28 vs. Massachusetts in 1966), Brigham Young's Scott Warner (27 vs. Texas Tech in 1969), Cleveland State's Dave Kyle (24 vs. Ohio University in 1976), Hofstra's John Irving (28 vs. Long Island in 1975) and Northwestern State's Eric Kubel (26 vs. Southeastern Louisiana in 1993) set school single-game rebounding records against a major-college opponent.
19 - Iowa State's Lafester Rhodes (54 points vs. Iowa in overtime in 1987), Norfolk State's Tony Murphy (43 vs. Texas A&M-Corpus Christi at UNLV in 2006) and UNC Asheville's Ricky Chatman (41 vs. James Madison in overtime in 1987) set school Division I single-game scoring records. . . . Kevin Thomas (46 vs. Tennessee in 1955 Carousel Invitational at Charlotte) set Boston University's single-game scoring record against a DI opponent. . . . Oklahoma freshman Trae Young tied NCAA single-game assists record (22 vs. Northwestern State in 2017). . . . Auburn's Rex Frederick (27 vs. SMU in 1957), Lehigh's Greg Falkenbach (25 vs. Drexel in 1970) and New Mexico State's Sam Lacey (27 vs. Hardin-Simmons TX in 1969) set school single-game rebounding records against a major-college opponent.
20 - Fresno State's Charles Bailey (45 points at North Texas State in double overtime in 1973), Georgia's Ronnie Hogue (46 vs. Louisiana State in 1971) and Maryland's Ernest Graham (44 vs. North Carolina State in 1978) set school single-game scoring records. . . . John Connors (23 vs. Iona in 1956) set St. Bonaventure's single-game rebounding record against a major-college opponent.
21 - Idaho's Orlando Lightfoot (50 points at Gonzaga in 1993), Ohio's Dave Jamerson (60 vs. Charleston WV in 1989), Pacific's Bill Stricker (44 vs. Portland in 1968) and Pittsburgh's Don Hennon (45 vs. Duke in double overtime in 1957) set school single-game scoring records. . . . Visiting Cincinnati outlasted Bradley in seven overtimes in 1981 in the longest game in NCAA history. . . . Texas Christian hit an NCAA-record 56 free throws in 70 attempts in 1999 against Eastern Michigan. . . . West Virginia ended North Carolina's school-record 37-game winning streak (75-64 in 1957 at Kentucky), Houston's school-record 59-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Illinois (97-84 in 1968) and Oklahoma State's school-record 49-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Southern California (28-25 in 1940). . . . Memphis State center John Gunn, who averaged 11 points and 9 rebounds per game the previous two years for national postseason tournament teams, died in 1976 due to complications of a rare disease (Stevens-Johnson Syndrome).
22 - Central Michigan's Tommie Johnson (53 points at Wright State in 1987), Georgia Tech's Kenny Anderson (50 vs. Loyola Marymount in 1990), Jackson State's Trey Johnson (49 at Texas-El Paso in 2006) and San Jose State's Adrian Oliver (42 vs. Puget Sound WA in 2010) set school Division I single-game scoring records. . . . Centenary's Robert Parish (50 at Lamar in 1972), Colorado State's Mike Childress (26 vs. San Jose State in 1969) and Seton Hall's Nick Galis (48 vs. Santa Clara in 1978 Cable Car Classic at San Francisco) set school single-game scoring records against a Division I opponent. . . . Louisiana State All-American Pete Maravich set an NCAA single-game record for most successful free throws by converting 30 foul shots at Oregon State in 1969. . . . Oklahoma's school-record 51-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by Duke (90-85 in 1990). . . . Rich Kelley (27 vs. Kentucky in 1973) set Stanford's single-game rebounding record. . . . Oklahoma set an NCAA record for most consecutive points against a DI opponent with a 39-point run in the first half against Weber State in 2014.
23 - Scott Fisher (39 points at Montana State in 1985) set UC Santa Barbara's school single-game scoring record. . . . Bob Portman (46 vs. Weber State in 1968) set Creighton's single-game scoring record against a major-college opponent. . . . Top-ranked Virginia and national player of the year Ralph Sampson lost in Hawaii at tiny NAIA school (Chaminade) in 1982 in perhaps the biggest upset in college basketball history.
27 - Gene Harris (46 points vs. Holy Cross in 1961 Quaker City Classic at Philadelphia) set Penn State's single-game scoring record.
28 - Oklahoma's Wayman Tisdale (61 points vs. Texas-San Antonio in All-College Tournament at Oklahoma City in 1983) and Texas A&M's Bennie Lenox (53 vs. Wyoming in 1963 All-College Tournament at Oklahoma City) set school single-game scoring records. . . . NCAA champion-to-be Michigan lost on a neutral court at Salt Lake City to non-Division I opponent Alaska-Anchorage in 1988. . . . Providence's school-record 55-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by St. John's (91-79 in 1974). . . . Detroit's Bill Ebben (38 vs. Brigham Young in 1955), Gonzaga's Paul Cathey (28 vs. UNLV in 1977), Illinois' Skip Thoren (24 vs. UCLA in 1963), Michigan State's Horace Walker (29 vs. Butler in 1959), Niagara's Alex Ellis (31 vs. Villanova in 1956), UAB's Cameron Moore (24 vs. George Washington in 2011) and Washington State's Jim McKean (27 vs. West Virginia in 1966) set school single-game rebounding records against a major-college opponent.
29 - Chattanooga's Vincent Robinson (20 vs. Tennessee State in 1989), Colorado's Burdette Haldorson (31 vs. Oklahoma in 1952), Louisiana-Monroe's Calvin Natt (31 vs. Georgia Southern in 1976), Ohio State's Frank Howard (32 vs. Brigham Young in 1956), San Diego State's Michael Cage (26 vs. La Salle in 1980), Texas A&M's Steve Niles (21 vs. Furman in 1969) and Utah's Billy McGill (24 vs. UCLA in 1961) set school single-game rebounding records against a major-college opponent.
30 - Austin Peay's James "Fly" Williams (51 points vs. Georgia Southern in final of 1972 Claxton Fruitcake Classic), Florida International's Carlos Arroyo (39 at North Texas in overtime in 2000), Fordham's Charlie Yelverton (46 vs. Rochester NY in 1970), Hawaii's Trevor Ruffin (42 vs. Louisville in 1993), Penn's Ernie Beck (47 vs. Duke in 1952 Dixie Classic at Raleigh, N.C.), St. Joseph's Tony Costner (47 vs. Alaska-Anchorage in 1983 Cable Car Classic at San Francisco) and Utah State's Wayne Estes (52 vs. Boston College in overtime at 1964 Rainbow Classic in Hawaii) set school single-game scoring records. . . . Duke overcame a 29-point halftime deficit to defeat Tulane in consolation game of 1950 Dixie Classic at Raleigh. . . . Stanford ended Long Island's school-record 43-game winning streak (45-31 in 1936). . . . Hawaii's Bob Nash (30 vs. Arizona State in 1971), Idaho State's Ed Wilson (26 vs. Arkansas in 1967), La Salle's Tom Gola (31 vs. Brigham Young in 1953), Michigan State's Johnny Green (29 vs. Washington in 1957), St. John's LeRoy Ellis Sr. (30 vs. NYU in 1961), South Alabama's Leon Williams (28 vs. Texas-Arlington in 1972) and Western Kentucky's Tom Marshall (29 vs. Louisville in 1953) set school single-game rebounding records against a major-college opponent.
31 - Loyola of Chicago's school-record 41-game homecourt winning streak was snapped by St. Louis (90-57 in 1964).
On the Sideline: Which Players Are Out Because of Transfers, Injuries, Etc.?
Alphabetical list of NCAA Division I players who are sidelined after transferring, suffering injury or other reason:
| Player | Pos. | School | Cl. | Reason on Sideline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Corey Allen | G | Detroit | So. | Transferred to Georgia State. |
| JoJo Anderson | G | Northern Arizona | So. | Transferred to Texas Southern. |
| Jonathan Bahre | F | UNC Asheville | So. | Transferred to Clemson. |
| James Banks | C | Texas | So. | Transferred to Georgia Tech. |
| Manny Bates | F | North Carolina State | Fr. | Medical redshirt after surgery for dislocated left shoulder. |
| Trae Berhow | G | Pepperdine | Fr. | Transferred to Northern Iowa. |
| Souley Boum | G | San Francisco | So. | Transferred to Texas-El Paso. |
| Dedric Boyd | G | Eastern Kentucky | Fr. | Transferred to Illinois State. |
| Izaiah Brockington | G | St. Bonaventure | Fr. | Transferred to Penn State. |
| Isiah Brown | G | Northwestern | So. | Transferred to Grand Canyon. |
| Marcus Burk | G | Campbell | So. | Transferred to IUPUI. |
| Dachon Burke | G | Robert Morris | So. | Transferred to Nebraska. |
| Brad Calipari | G | Kentucky | Jr. | Redshirt before entering graduate school. |
| Tyger Campbell | G | UCLA | Fr. | Out for season after tearing ACL in left knee. |
| David Caraher | F | Houston Baptist | Fr. | Transferred to St. John's. |
| Marcus Carr | G | Pittsburgh | Fr. | Transferred to Minnesota. |
| Haanif Cheatham | G | Marquette | Jr. | Transferred to Florida Gulf Coast. |
| Evan Clayborne | F | Cleveland State | So. | Transferred to North Carolina Central. |
| Don Coleman | G | California | Jr. | Transferred to South Alabama. |
| Levi Cook | C | DePaul | So. | Transferred to Marshall. |
| Eric Curry | F | Minnesota | So. | Slated to miss first 5 to 10 games after knee surgery. |
| Brandon Cyrus | G | DePaul | Jr. | Transferred to UC Santa Barbara. |
| Ryan Daly | G | Delaware | So. | Transferred to Saint Joseph's. |
| Nate Darling | F | UAB | So. | Transferred to Delaware. |
| Silvio DeSousa | C | Kansas | So. | Suspended amid federal fraud trials. |
| Mamadou Diarra | F | Connecticut | So. | Out until mid-season after undergoing surgery on left knee. |
| Tyrik Dixon | G | Middle Tennessee | Jr. | Transferred to Missouri State. |
| Hyron Edwards | G | Texas Tech | Jr. | Transferred to Colorado State. |
| Eden Ewing | F | Purdue | Jr. | Transferred to Texas Southern. |
| Keith Fisher III | F | San Jose State | Fr. | Transferred to Illinois State. |
| Malachi Flynn | G | Washington State | Jr. | Transferred to San Diego State. |
| Aleem Ford | F | Wisconsin | So. | Out indefinitely after knee surgery. |
| Blake Francis | G | Wagner | So. | Transferred to Richmond. |
| Darius Garland | G | Vanderbilt | Fr. | Lost for season after surgery on left knee. |
| Stone Gettings | F | Cornell | Jr. | Transferred to Arizona. |
| Galen Gibbs | G | Drake | Fr. | Transferred to Mount St. Mary's. |
| Asante Gist | G | Eastern Kentucky | So. | Transferred to Iona. |
| Ty Graves | G | Saint Louis | So. | Transferred to North Carolina Central. |
| Quade Green | G | Kentucky | So. | Transferred to Washington. |
| Roland Griffin | F | Iona | Sr. | Kicked off team after punching assistant coach. |
| Ndene Gueye | F | St. Bonaventure | Jr. | Transferred to Texas-Rio Grande Valley. |
| Darious Hall | F | Arkansas | Fr. | Transferred to DePaul. |
| Jared Hamilton | F | Georgia Southern | So. | Transferred to Boston College. |
| Jalen Harris | G | Louisiana Tech | So. | Transferred to Nevada. |
| Cavit Havsa | G | Fordham | So. | Transferred to Utah Valley. |
| Schnider Herard | C | Mississippi State | So. | Transferred to Maryland. |
| Jaycee Hillsman | G | San Jose State | Jr. | Transferred to Illinois State. |
| D'Angelo Hunter | F | West Virginia | Jr. | Transferred to Nicholls State. |
| Travis Ingram | G | Towson | Fr. | Transferred to Hampton. |
| Samuel Japhet-Mathias | C | Wake Forest | So. | Transferred to San Jose State. |
| Casdon Jardine | F | Boise State | So. | Transferred to Utah Valley. |
| Carlos Johnson | F | Washington | So. | Transferred to Grand Canyon. |
| Cairon "C.J." Jones | G | Arkansas | So. | Transferred to Middle Tennessee State. |
| Curtis "Cujo" Jones | G | Indiana | So. | Transferred to Oklahoma State. |
| Reggie Jones | G | Western Michigan | So. | Transferred to Tulsa. |
| Braxton Key | F | Alabama | So. | Transferred to Virginia. |
| Mayan Kiir | F | Louisiana State | So. | Transferred to South Florida. |
| Sacha Killeya-Jones | F | Kentucky | So. | Transferred to North Carolina State. |
| Kalob Ledoux | G | McNeese State | So. | Transferred to Louisiana Tech. |
| Danny Lewis | G | UCF | Fr. | Transferred to Kennesaw State. |
| Marten Linssen | F | Valparaiso | Fr. | Transferred to UNC Wilmington. |
| Te'Jon Lucas | G | Illinois | So. | Transferred to Milwaukee. |
| Zane Martin | G | Towson | So. | Transferred to New Mexico. |
| Koby McEwen | G | Utah State | So. | Transferred to Marquette. |
| Kameron McGusty | G | Oklahoma | Jr. | Transferred to Miami (Fla.). |
| JaQuori McLaughlin | G | Oregon State | So. | Transferred to UC Santa Barbara. |
| Chris McNeal | G | New Mexico | Sr. | Transferred to Tennessee Tech. |
| Rodney Miller | C | Miami (Fla.) | Jr. | Slated to redshirt entire 2018-19 season. |
| Sam Miller | F | Dayton | Jr. | Transferred to College of Charleston. |
| Justin Minaya | F | South Carolina | So. | Out indefinitely after surgery on right knee. |
| Davion Mitchell | G | Auburn | Fr. | Transferred to Baylor. |
| Matthew Moyer | F | Syracuse | Fr. | Transferred to Vanderbilt. |
| Cooper Neese | G | Butler | Fr. | Transferred to Indiana State. |
| Lucas N'Guessan | C | Oklahoma State | Jr. | Transferred to East Tennessee State. |
| Prentiss Nixon | G | Colorado State | Jr. | Transferred to Iowa State. |
| Rily Norris | G | Alabama | Sr. | Week-to-week after heart procedure. |
| Ikechukwu Obiagu | C | Florida State | Fr. | Transferred to Seton Hall. |
| Shareef O'Neal | F | UCLA | Fr. | Medical redshirt due to heart issue requiring surgery. |
| Ralueke Orizu | F | Savannah State | Fr. | Transferred to Eastern Washington. |
| Preston Parks | G | The Citadel | So. | Transferred to UT Martin. |
| Dallas Polk-Hilliard | F | South Dakota State | Jr. | Transferred to Grambling State. |
| Jontay Porter | F | Missouri | So. | Out for season after tearing ACL and MCL. |
| Micah Potter | F | Ohio State | Jr. | Slated to transfer. |
| Nedeljko Prijovic | F | Texas State | So. | Transferred to Maine. |
| Austin Reaves | G | Wichita State | Jr. | Transferred to Oklahoma. |
| Miles Reynolds | G | Pacific | Jr. | Transferred to Oklahoma. |
| Jared Ridder | F | Xavier | Fr. | Transferred to Missouri State. |
| Cody Riley | F | UCLA | Fr. | Out first three weeks of season with jaw injury. |
| C.J. Roberts | G | Missouri | Fr. | Transferred to Texas Tech. |
| Mike Sagay | F | Boston College | So. | Transferred to IUPUI. |
| Gerron Scissum | F | James Madison | So. | Transferred to Alabama A&M. |
| James Scott | G | Kennesaw State | So. | Transferred to Temple. |
| Reggie Scurry | F | Missouri State | Jr. | Transferred to Middle Tennessee State. |
| Dru Smith | G | Evansville | So. | Transferred to Missouri. |
| Keith Smith | F | Oregon | So. | Transferred to Pepperdine. |
| Joseph Smoyer | C | Portland | So. | Transferred to Columbia. |
| Logan Strom | F | UC Davis | Fr. | Transferred to Omaha. |
| Anthony Tarke | G-F | NJIT | Jr. | Transferred to Texas-El Paso. |
| MaCio Teague | G | UNC Asheville | So. | Transferred to Baylor. |
| Miryne Thomas | F | Maryland-Eastern Shore | Fr. | Transferred to Ball State. |
| Killian Tillie | F | Gonzaga | Jr. | Out until early January after stress fracture surgery in ankle. |
| Jorday Tshimanga | F | Nebraska | Jr. | Transferred to Dayton. |
| Jordan Tucker | F | Duke | Fr. | Transferred to Butler. |
| Andy Van Vliet | F | Wisconsin | Jr. | Transferred to William & Mary. |
| Alex Vilarino | G | Texas Tech | Fr. | Transferred to Boston University. |
| Ramon Vila | C | Arizona State | So. | Transferred to Chattanooga. |
| C.J. Walker | G | Florida State | So. | Transferred to Ohio State. |
| Jy'lan Washington | F | Louisiana Tech | Jr. | Transferred to Tennessee State. |
| Ibi Watson | G | Michigan | So. | Transferred to Dayton. |
| Ryan Welage | F | San Jose State | Jr. | Transferred to Xavier. |
| Lindell Wigginton | G | Iowa State | So. | Out with left foot in cast. |
| George Willborn III | G | UTSA | So. | Transferred to UC Riverside. |
| Bryson Williams | F | Fresno State | Jr. | Transferred to Texas-El Paso. |
| Carson Williams | F | Northern Kentucky | So. | Transferred to Western Kentucky. |
| Christian Williams | G | Iowa | Jr. | Transferred to Indiana State. |
| Deandre Williams | F | Evansville | Fr. | Ruled ineligible by NCAA as non-qualifier. |
| Xeyrius Williams | F | Dayton | Jr. | Transferred to Akron. |
| Payton Willis | G | Vanderbilt | So. | Transferred to Minnesota. |
| Derrick Woods | F | Delaware | So. | Transferred to St. Peter's. |
| Elijah "Eli" Wright | G | Mississippi State | So. | Transferred to St. John's. |
| Jacob Young | G | Texas | So. | Transferred to Rutgers. |
| Omer Yurtseven | C | North Carolina State | So. | Transferred to Georgetown. |
BeDeviled: Duke is First #1-Ranked Team to Lose For Third Straight Season
Hall of Famer Mike Krzyzewski has defeated six nationally #1-ranked opponents while coaching Duke. But there is a price to pay for the Blue Devils spending more weeks ranked No. 1 during Coach K's tenure than unranked. After bowing against Gonzaga in Maui, Duke moved ahead of Kentucky for school with the most defeats as nation's top-ranked team (34). North Carolina is right behind the duo with 31 such setbacks.
An individual all-time high 30 (only 10 outside ACC competition) of the 34 such setbacks have been with Krzyzewski as the Blue Devils' bench boss. Marquee mentors ranking behind him for most losses coaching the nation's top-ranked team are Dean Smith (18 with North Carolina), Roy Williams (18/11 with Kansas and seven with North Carolina) and Adolph Rupp (15 with Kentucky).
Duke lost as the nation's top-ranked team seven straight seasons from 1997-98 through 2003-04. Five of the Blue Devils' seven such losses from late-November 1998 to the 2002 NCAA playoffs were by margins of fewer than four points. Following is a chronological list of the 30 K's for Krzyzewski when ranked No. 1 in the country:
| Season | Date | Score | Team Defeating Nationally #1 Duke | Opponent's Coach |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1985-86 | 3-31-86 | 72-69 | Louisville at Dallas in NCAA Tournament final | Denny Crum |
| 1988-89 | 1-18-89 | 91-71 | North Carolina | Dean Smith |
| 1988-89 | 1-21-89 | 75-71 | at Wake Forest | Bob Staak |
| 1991-92 | 2-5-92 | 75-73 | at North Carolina | Dean Smith |
| 1991-92 | 2-23-92 | 72-68 | at Wake Forest | Dave Odom |
| 1992-93 | 1-10-93 | 80-79 | at Georgia Tech | Bobby Cremins |
| 1993-94 | 2-3-94 | 89-78 | at North Carolina | Dean Smith |
| 1997-98 | 12-13-97 | 81-73 | at Michigan | Brian Ellerbe |
| 1997-98 | 2-5-98 | 97-73 | at North Carolina | Bill Guthridge |
| 1997-98 | 3-8-98 | 83-68 | North Carolina at Greensboro in ACC Tournament final | Bill Guthridge |
| 1998-99 | 11-28-98 | 77-75 | Cincinnati at Anchorage in Great Alaska Shootout final | Bob Huggins |
| 1998-99 | 3-29-99 | 77-74 | Connecticut at St. Petersburg in NCAA Tournament final | Jim Calhoun |
| 1999-00 | 3-24-00 | 87-78 | Florida at Syracuse in NCAA Tournament East Regional semifinals | Billy Donovan |
| 2000-01 | 12-21-00 | 84-83 | Stanford at Oakland | Mike Montgomery |
| 2001-02 | 1-6-02 | 77-76 | at Florida State | Steve Robinson |
| 2001-02 | 2-17-02 | 87-73 | at Maryland | Gary Williams |
| 2001-02 | 3-21-02 | 74-73 | Indiana at Kentucky in NCAA Tournament South Regional semifinals | Mike Davis |
| 2002-03 | 1-18-03 | 87-72 | at Maryland | Gary Williams |
| 2003-04 | 2-15-04 | 78-74 | at North Carolina State | Herb Sendek |
| 2005-06 | 1-21-06 | 87-84 | at Georgetown | John Thompson III |
| 2005-06 | 3-1-06 | 79-74 | at Florida State | Leonard Hamilton |
| 2005-06 | 3-4-06 | 83-76 | North Carolina | Roy Williams |
| 2008-09 | 1-28-09 | 70-68 | at Wake Forest | Dino Gaudio |
| 2010-11 | 1-12-11 | 66-61 | at Florida State | Leonard Hamilton |
| 2010-11 | 2-26-11 | 64-60 | at Virginia Tech | Seth Greenberg |
| 2012-13 | 1-12-13 | 84-76 | at North Carolina State | Mark Gottfried |
| 2012-13 | 1-23-13 | 90-63 | at Miami (Fla.) | Jim Larranaga |
| 2016-17 | 11-15-16 | 77-75 | Kansas at New York | Bill Self |
| 2017-18 | 12-9-17 | 89-84 | at Boston College | Jim Christian |
| 2018-19 | 11-21-18 | 89-87 | Gonzaga at Maui | Mark Few |
Put Big Boy Pants On: Power-Conference Members Frequently Stay at Home
"Bullying builds character like nuclear waste creates superheroes. It's a rare occurrence and often does much more damage than endowment." - Zack W. Van
When big bullies are struck, they usually take their ball and go home. Did you notice anemic attendance in student section for Kentucky's first two home games last season (against Utah Valley and Vermont)? Why do so few power conference members play at in-state mid-major schools or even oppose them on a neutral court during the regular season? Why can't more big-name universities resemble Villanova with its longstanding tradition of competing in the Philly Big 5 honing the Wildcats' competitive edge for conference competition even if the defending NCAA titlist bows to Penn? How lame would the non-league slates be if not for Big East/Big Ten and Big 12/SEC made-for-ESPN extravaganzas?
In-state games against natural rivals, wherever they're played, are more revealing than most of the incessant mismatches in pre-conference competition. For instance, we got a clear picture that Indiana would be a second-division team in the Big Ten under new coach Archie Miller after the Hoosiers' humbling experience getting clobbered in season opener by Indiana State. Want to bet how bad the Hoosiers would have lost if they opposed the Sycamores on the road in Terre Haute? After losing at IPFW two seasons ago, IU was mauled by 20 points at home by the Mastodons last year. This year, South Carolina was clobbered by 20 points at home against Wofford. What would the margin have been if contest was played in Spartanburg rather than Columbia?
Non-league schedules would be significantly more entertaining and good for the game if skittish power-league members weren't so condescending and be willing to oppose competent in-state low-majors away from friendly surroundings. Instead of meeting natural rival Davids on the road to brace for conference play, they frequently tuck tail and run after checking out the following results thus far this century. Scores such as Georgia State scorching Georgia are sobering reminders for Goliaths venturing away from Philistine the reasons why haughty "big boys" frequently strive to only stay home and pick on out-of-state patsies to pad their records:
2018-19
Georgia State 91, Georgia 67 (Cayman Islands Classic)
Gonzaga 81, Washington 79
Penn 78, Villanova 75
Tulsa 74, Oklahoma State 71
2017-18
Belmont 69, Vanderbilt 60
Colorado State 72, Colorado 63
Long Beach State 76, Stanford 68
Rhode Island 75, Providence 68
2016-17
Duquesne 64, Pittsburgh 55
Indiana State 72, Butler 71
IPFW 71, Indiana 68 (OT)
Long Island 74, St. John's 73 (at Barclays Center)
Middle Tennessee State 71, Vanderbilt 48
Portland 53, Oregon State 45
San Diego State 77, California 65 (at Sacramento)
Southern Methodist 74, Texas Christian 59
2015-16
Duquesne 78, Penn State 52
Fordham 73, St. John's 57
Gonzaga 80, Washington 64 (at Nassau, Bahamas)
Northern Iowa 81, Iowa State 79 (at Des Moines)
Saint Mary's 78, Stanford 61
2014-15
Gonzaga 81, Washington State 66
Massachusetts 71, Boston College 62 (at Boston)
Northern Iowa 56, Iowa 44
2013-14
UC Santa Barbara 72, California 65
George Washington 77, Maryland 75
Gonzaga 90, Washington State 74
Harvard 73, Boston College 58
Illinois State 69, DePaul 64
Long Beach State 72, Southern California 71
Southern Methodist 55, Texas A&M 52 (at Corpus Christi)
Southern Methodist 69, Texas Christian 61
Virginia Commonwealth 82, Virginia Tech 52
2012-13
Brown 69, Providence 68
Butler 88, Indiana 86 (OT)
Coastal Carolina 69, Clemson 46
Florida Gulf Coast 63, Miami (Fla.) 51
Green Bay 49, Marquette 47
La Salle 82, Penn State 57
La Salle 77, Villanova 74 (OT)
Middle Tennessee 56, Vanderbilt 52
Old Dominion 63, Virginia 61
2011-12
Cal Poly 42, Southern California 36
Colorado State 65, Colorado 64
Creighton 76, Nebraska 66
Drake 74, Iowa State 65
Holy Cross 86, Boston College 64
Northern Iowa 80, Iowa 60
Saint Joseph's 65, Penn State 47
Saint Joseph's 74, Villanova 58
Southern Mississippi 86, Mississippi 82
Temple 78, Villanova 67
Xavier 76, Cincinnati 53
2010-11
Central Florida 57, Florida 54
Central Florida 84, Miami (Fla.) 78
Central Florida 65, South Florida 59
Florida Atlantic 50, South Florida 42
Fordham 84, St. John's 81
Furman 91, South Carolina 75
Kennesaw State 80, Georgia Tech 63
Marshall 75, West Virginia 71
UNC Wilmington 81, Wake Forest 69
North Texas 92, Texas Tech 83 (OT)
Northern Iowa 60, Iowa State 54
Princeton 78, Rutgers 73 (OT)
2009-10
Colorado State 77, Colorado 62
Creighton 67, Nebraska 61
Green Bay 88, Wisconsin 84 (OT)
Long Beach State 79, UCLA 68
Northern Iowa 67, Iowa 50
Portland State 88, Oregon 81
Rhode Island 86, Providence 82
Temple 45, Penn State 42
Temple 75, Villanova 65
Tulsa 86, Oklahoma State 65
Wofford 68, South Carolina 61
Xavier 83, Cincinnati 79 (2OT)
2008-09
College of Charleston 82, South Carolina 80 (OT)
Davidson 72, North Carolina State 67
Drake 60, Iowa 43
Lamar 85, Texas Tech 79
Southern Mississippi 78, Mississippi 59
Texas-El Paso 96, Texas Tech 78
Western Kentucky 68, Louisville 54
2007-08
Charlotte 63, Wake Forest 59
Creighton 74, Nebraska 62
Drake 79, Iowa State 44
East Carolina 75, North Carolina State 69
Old Dominion 72, Virginia Tech 69
Rhode Island 77, Providence 60
Richmond 52, Virginia Tech 49
Saint Joseph's 79, Penn State 67
Sam Houston State 56, Texas Tech 54
Tulane 68, Louisiana State 63
Xavier 64, Cincinnati 59
2006-07
Bradley 78, DePaul 58
Butler 60, Indiana 55
Butler 71, Notre Dame 69
Drake 75, Iowa 59
Gonzaga 97, Washington 77
Indiana State 89, Purdue 70
Northern Iowa 70, Iowa State 57
Ohio University 79, Cincinnati 66
2005-06
UC Davis 64, Stanford 58
Colorado State 83, Colorado 82
Creighton 70, Nebraska 44
Evansville 75, Purdue 69
George Washington 78, Maryland 70
Gonzaga 67, Washington State 53
Indiana State 72, Indiana 67
Marshall 58, West Virginia 52
Northern Iowa 67, Iowa 63 (OT)
Old Dominion 58, Virginia Tech 55
Portland 80, Oregon 72
Rhode Island 77, Providence 69
Xavier 73, Cincinnati 71 (OT)
2004-05
Bradley 63, DePaul 53
George Washington 101, Maryland 92
Gonzaga 99, Washington 87
Marshall 59, West Virginia 55
Northern Iowa 99, Iowa State 82
Santa Clara 86, Stanford 76
Temple 53, Villanova 52
Virginia Military 72, Virginia Tech 68
2003-04
Creighton 61, Nebraska 54
Gonzaga 95, Washington State 58
Illinois-Chicago 90, Northwestern 71
Northern Iowa 77, Iowa 66
North Texas 73, Baylor 69
Rhode Island 89, Providence 79
Temple 67, Penn State 56
Xavier 71, Cincinnati 69
2002-03
Dayton 75, Cincinnati 69
Florida Atlantic 74, Miami (Fla.) 73
Gonzaga 95, Washington 89 (OT)
Holy Cross 71, Boston College 70
Penn 62, Penn State 37
Penn 72, Villanova 58
Saint Joseph's 92, Villanova 75
William & Mary 60, Virginia Tech 52
2001-02
Butler 66, Indiana 64
Creighton 76, Nebraska 70
Drake 72, Iowa State 58
Fresno State 65, Southern California 58
Georgia State 83, Georgia 78
Gonzaga 67, Washington State 44
Marshall 81, West Virginia 79 (OT)
Northern Iowa 78, Iowa 76
Old Dominion 55, Virginia Tech 46
Penn 75, Villanova 74
Pepperdine 78, Southern California 77
Portland 79, Oregon 78
Rice 75, Baylor 60
Temple 75, Penn State 63
Temple 63, Villanova 57
Texas-Pan American 72, Baylor 66
2000-01
UC Irvine 56, California 52
Duquesne 71, Pittsburgh 70
Fordham 68, St. John's 67
Gonzaga 86, Washington 74
Indiana State 59, Indiana 58
Oakland 97, Michigan 90
Wichita State 76, Kansas State 66
1999-00
Colorado State 79, Colorado 57
Creighton 89, Nebraska 72
Drake 48, Iowa State 44
George Washington 74, Maryland 69
Gonzaga 76, Washington 66
Gonzaga 73, Washington State 63
Long Beach State 76, Southern California 66
North Texas 91, Texas A&M 88
Saint Louis 75, Missouri 72
Temple 69, Villanova 66
Xavier 66, Cincinnati 64
Thank Yous & Turkeys: Food-For-Thought Cheers & Jeers in College Hoops
More than 20,000 thank yous can't begin to express appreciation for setting the stage regarding procedure in Texas saving life of one of my grandsons when he was only two days old. The gratitude beyond measure is for world-famous heart surgeon Dr. Denton Cooley, who performed well in excess of 20,000 open-heart operations before passing away several years ago at the age of 96. He was a three-year letterman (1938-39 through 1940-41) on Texas basketball teams combining for a 51-21 record. The 6-3 Cooley, named the 32nd most influential student-athlete in 2006 when the NCAA celebrated its centennial anniversary, saw action in both of the Longhorns' games in the inaugural NCAA Tournament in 1939 after they captured the Southwest Conference championship.
"I've always had the opinion that my training in athletics equipped me for a life in medicine," Houston-based Dr. Cooley said, "and particularly in surgery because there's so much of the physical part involved. Surgery is a specialty in which a person must have vigor and a healthy body to perform at his peak. It requires a certain amount of physical training as well as mental training. In surgery, operations are accomplished by teams. As in athletics, a strong individual effort is possible only with the support of a good team. The morale of the team must be maintained by the captain. And these are the things individuals learn in a program of competitive sports. We learn to accept defeat but not to be satisfied with defeat; that there is no alternative for winning. Extra effort and determination and hard work and practice are what lead to accomplishment and victory."
Again, thank you Dr. Cooley for your extra effort and determination and hard work. A Thanksgiving holiday week absolutely should include the time-honored tradition of a smorgasbord mulling over a mixture of heartfelt Thank Yous while also chewing on tasteless Turkeys. The list of candidates in college basketball is extensive stemming from issues and individuals your most grateful for and those of dubious distinction. Following is a healthy serving of food-for-thought Thanksgiving tributes and tongue-lashings for hoop observers to gobble-gobble up:
THANK YOUS
Cheers to mid-major players deserving post-season recognition this season if A-A voters are paying attention.
Cheers to multiple players carrying the torch for their father at the same school dear old dad attended.
Cheers to this season's crop of entertaining freshmen although they pale in comparison to the depth exhibited by gifted group in 1979-80.
Cheers to ex-college hoopers dominating as NFL tight ends as long as they don't #KneelWithJemele.
Cheers to Canada, which could provide a north-of-the-border All-American for the seventh consecutive campaign.
Cheers to the Big East Conference, which appears to be continuing a renaissance after losing prominent members to supposedly superior leagues.
Cheers to "old-school" seniors for not abandoning college hoops early and giving the sport at least some modicum of veteran leadership by attending the same school their entire career.
Cheers to the Ivy League and Patriot League, which seem like the last bastions replete with textbook student-athletes. Five Ivy League institutions - Brown, Cornell, Dartmouth, Harvard and Yale - can still hold their heads high despite each of them posting all-time losing records.
Cheers to pristine playmakers who show again and again that "pass" is not a dirty four-letter word amid the obsession with individualistic one-on-one moves by self-absorbed one-and-done scholars.
Cheers to model coaches who have their egos in check and carry their personal profiles in school media guides after, not before, the player bios.
Cheers to upstanding schools having their academic priorities in order although it is getting increasingly difficult not to accept the stereotype that universities need to be one-dimensional sports factories to assemble successful NCAA Division I basketball programs.
Cheers to Gonzaga's Mark Few and Wichita State's Gregg Marshall for assembling "mid-major" powerhouses.
Cheers to entertaining little big men (players 5-10 or shorter) who inspire us with their self-confidence and mental toughness in the Land of the Giants.
Cheers to women's hoops, which has improved immeasurably while the men's game has suffered somewhat from inattention to fundamentals such as competent free-throw shooting. The team-oriented women look for passing angles to teammates "flashing" into the lane while far too many one-dimensional men seek camera angles to trigger a "flash-dance" routine. Some of the self-centered men haven't quite comprehended it isn't platform diving or figure skating they're participating in and you don't secure extra points for degree of difficulty.
Cheers to junior college players and foreigners who overcome perceptions in some misguided quarters that they are the rogues of recruiting.
Cheers to the numerous promising first-year coaches assuming control of programs this season. They need to remember the fortitude exhibited by many of the biggest names in coaching who rebounded from embarrassing defeats in their first season as a head coach. An active luminary who lost multiple games to non-Division I colleges in his initial campaign before ascending to stardom as the all-time winningest coach is Duke's Mike Krzyzewski (lost to SUNY-Buffalo, Scranton and King's College in 1975-76 while coaching Army).
TURKEYS
Jeers to Hall of Fame coaches Jim Boeheim, Rick Pitino and Roy Williams (North Carolina) for respective Eeyore-like analysis after their schools became immersed in assorted Hall of Shame scandals. How close did Mike "Let's Move On" Krzyzewski come to joining this negative ACC-heavy list in aftermath of reasons for Rasheed Sulaimon's departure from Duke and one-and-done rental player Jahlil Okafor's infatuation with clubbing before the NBA rookie center acquired a baby-sitting security guard before ever helping the Philadelphia 76ers win a game?
Jeers to Division I schools in a chaotic restructuring of conferences forsaking tradition although the quest for mega-leagues could be delusional because they're vying for television revenue that might not exist as network sports divisions operate at ample deficits.
Jeers to the striking number of power conference members who've provided a long list of players on their rosters participating in an authentic "War on Women."
Jeers to recruiting services incapable of discerning Creighton's Doug McDermott, unanimous national player of the year three seasons ago, should have been a Top 100 recruit coming out of high school in 2010. Ditto to announcers who infect the sport by spreading this virus without ever seeing any of the players enough to properly evaluate them.
Jeers to marquee coaches such as Bruce Pearl (Auburn) who've served up assistants as sacrificial lambs when the heat of an investigation of their program intensifies. Let's hope Pearl has lower percentage of his latest SEC roster run afoul of the law than he did with Tennessee.
Jeers to anyone who incessantly castigates the majority of undergraduates declaring early for the NBA draft. Before accepting the party line that many of the players are making monumental mistakes by forgoing their remaining college eligibility, remember that more than half of the NBA's All-Pro selections in the last several decades left college early or never attended a university.
Jeers to any school for not promptly granting a recruit seeking to enroll elsewhere a release from its letter-of-intent when he wants to attend another institution for legitimate reasons.
Jeers to "Me Generation" showmen who've failed to comprehend their respective teams don't benefit on the court from a trash-talking Harlem Globetrotter routine.
Jeers to self-absorbed players who spend more time getting tattoos and practicing macho dunks than team beneficial free throws. It all hinges on dedication. There is a reason they're supposed to be "free" throws instead of Shaq-like "foul" shots.
Jeers to high-profile coaches who take off for greener pastures despite having multiple years remaining on their contract or don sweaters and workout gear with a logo of a sneaker manufacturer instead of their school during TV games and interviews. Where is their allegiance?
Jeers to network analysts when they serve as apologists for the coaching community. When their familiar refrain echoes throughout hoopdom, they become nothing more than the big mouths that bore.
Jeers to marquee schools forsaking entertaining non-conference games with natural rivals while scheduling a half-dozen or more meaningless "rout-a-matics" at home.
Jeers to several colleges that hired tainted coaches, showing winning is still more important than dignity at some schools of lower learning. The crass-act enablers of academic anemia know who they are!
Jeers to defrauding coaches who manipulate junior colleges and high schools into giving phony grades to regal recruits even before encouraging them to take lame courses at their day-care facilities to keep the team GPA out of danger zone. Ditto coaches who steer prize high-school prospects to third parties toying with standardized test results.
Jeers to "fatherly-advice" coaches who don't mandate that any player with pro potential take multiple financial literacy courses. Did they notice in recent years that products from Alabama, Georgia Tech, Georgetown, Kentucky and Syracuse filed for bankruptcy after combining for more than half a billion dollars in salaries over their NBA careers? What contrived classes such as Afro Studies at North Carolina are taken in college anyway if a staggering 60% of NBA players file for bankruptcy five years after retirement?
Jeers to overzealous fans who seek to flog freshmen for not living up to their high school press clippings right away. The impatient onlookers need to get a grip on themselves.
Jeers to the excessive number of small schools thinking they can compete at the Division I level. There are far too many examples of dreamy-eyed small schools that believe competing with the big boys will get them national recognition, make big bucks from the NCAA Tournament and put the institutions on the map. They don't know how unrealistic that goal is until most of the hyphenated and directional schools barnstorm the country during their non-conference schedules in college basketball versions of Bataan Death Marches.
Jeers to lap-dog media embarrassed looking the other way at Louisville when stripped naked by lap-dancing Katina the Escort keeping copious copulation comments to assemble one of the biggest stories of the decade (Get Your Fill in the Ville) while the press passed out from Pitino Personality or his bourbon. How many other Pitino Places are out there such as Bo Knows Affairs at Wisconsin?
Jeers to ESPN (Extra Sensitive Pious Network) for rejecting a charity hospital ad promoting Jesus several years ago while giving forums to individuals who either lie to NCAA investigators as a head coach, lose new coaching job due to drunkenness, become a recruiting guru for the network after shady dealings at the highest level, specialize in man-check motivation, practice reprehensible race-baiting with the intellectually-bankrupt "Uncle Tom" bomb (Jalen Rose) or spew journalistic-junk spin along the lines of lunatic liberal propagandists Howard Bryant, LZ Granderson and Bomani Jones.
Bigger Not Always Better: Small-College Notebook Details Entertaining Hoops
The spotlight was on small-college hoopdom when a Fitchburg (Mass.) State mugger sent a forearm shiver through the sport. But there's much more enriching news at this level of basketball than a vicious cheap shot.
In a caste-like era separating the haves from the have-nots, imperial universities are seeking mega-conferences and, perhaps in the near future, an even more restrictive upper division. But the elitist institutions aren't able to exclude humble small schools from making a big impact on college basketball. Jack Taylor of Grinnell (Iowa) lit up scoreboards several seasons ago, pouring in 71 points in his season opener against Finlandia (Mich.) before exploding for 109 points against Crossroads (Minn.). Even when Taylor was out of the lineup in mid-season, Grinnell generated national headlines after Pat Maher set an NCAA single-game mark with 37 assists in a 164-144 win over College of Faith. In the afterglow of focusing on small colleges via scoring outbursts from G-men at Greenville and Grinnell, following is a chronological notebook with items detailing what will always be appealing about the little guy:
Basketball was a new demonstration sport at the 1904 Summer Olympics in St. Louis, which also was part of the World's Fair the same year. Hiram College (Ohio), Wheaton College (Ill.) and the University of Latter Day Saints (known today as Brigham Young) were the three college teams invited to compete in what was officially called the "Olympic Collegiate Basketball Championship." Hiram finished the round-robin tournament 2-0 and was declared the champion and awarded the first Olympic gold medal in basketball.
College of Charleston (S.C.) went winless 10 seasons from 1913-14 through 1923-24 (0-56 record; did not compete in 1918-19). . . . Paul Davis, after leaving Oklahoma Agricultural and Mechanical College (now Oklahoma State), guided North Dakota State (18-0 in 1916) and North Dakota (16-0 in 1920) to undefeated seasons in a five-year span. He was also the football coach for these schools. . . . Indiana State's coach for five seasons from 1918-19 through 1922-23 after playing for the institution (known as Indiana State Normal School at the time) was Birch E. Bayh Sr. His son with the same name is a former U.S. Senator from Indiana from 1963 to 1981 and candidate for the Democratic nomination for president in the 1976 election. His grandson, Birch E. "Evan" Bayh III, is a former Indiana Governor and U.S. Senator (from 1999 to 2011). . . . Peru (Neb.) State Teachers won 55 consecutive games over a five-year span from 1921-26. . . . Earl Kinzie, a member of McPherson's 1928 Kansas Conference championship team that placed third in the national AAU Tournament in Kansas City, became a doctor and practiced family medicine in Texas for 50 years. He delivered more than 2,000 babies, including standout running back Earl Campbell.
Longtime radio and TV personality Art Linkletter was San Diego State's leading scorer in 1932-33 and 1933-34. . . . Stanford All-American Hank Luisetti is usually credited with introducing the jump shot but fans of Glenn Roberts from Emory & Henry (Va.) beg to differ. Roberts led the nation in scoring in 1933 and 1935 en route to tallying 2,013 career points. . . . Westminster (Pa.), playing in the first-ever collegiate basketball doubleheader at Madison Square Garden on December 29, 1934, upset St. John's, 37-33. . . . Tarleton (Tex.), coached by W.J. Wisdom, posted 86 straight victories from 1934 to 1937 en route to winning 112 of 113 games in a seven-year span. . . . Amos Alonzo Stagg Jr., the son of a legend who had the longest coaching career in the history of football (71 years), guided the basketball squad at Susquehanna (Pa.) for 16 seasons from 1935-36 through 1950-51. . . . Carleton (Minn.) forward Wayne Sparks, a "Little All-American" in 1936-37, died in a bomber crash in World War II. . . . Drury's Eugene "Peaches" Westover (class of '38), a four-time All-MCAU forward, was killed January 1, 1945, during WWII at the Battle of the Bulge. . . . Western Kentucky was the only school to defeat Murray State in a 79-game span from January 3, 1936 through March 10, 1938. . . . The leading scorer for champion Central Missouri State in the first NAIA tourney in 1937 (when it was known as the National Intercollegiate Tournament) was eventual major leaguer Chuck Workman, an outfielder-third baseman who finished second in the National League in home runs in 1945 with 25 for the Boston Braves. . . . Louisville lost a school-record 19 consecutive contests in the midst of a six-year stretch from 1936-37 through 1941-42 when the Cardinals were 57 games below the .500 mark. Louisville was a long way from becoming a major-college power in 1944 when Peck Hickman was hired as coach for $200 per month. The Cardinals won a total of 29 games over the previous seven seasons. In that span, they lost at least three times to Alfred Holbrook (three defeats), Berea (four), Centre (seven), Georgetown College (nine), Hanover (nine), Oakland City (three) and Transylvania (six). . . . Ulyss "Useless" Brock, a 6-0, 135-pound forward, scored 83 points (22 field goals and 39 free throws) for Freed-Hardeman (Tenn.) in a 101-21 verdict over Bethel in February, 1940. . . . UC Santa Barbara reached the 1941 NAIA Tournament semifinals although All-CCAA first-team center Lowell Steward, the league's first black player, couldn't compete because Missouri was a Jim Crow state at the time. Steward would later fly 143 combat missions in Europe as a P-51 pilot for the famed Tuskegee Airmen. . . . George Barr, regarded as probably the finest player in Northland (Wis.) history when he competed in the early 1940s, entered the Army Air Corps as a senior during World War II, earning his diploma in absentia. Barr volunteered for the Jimmy Doolittle raids over Tokyo in 1942. His plane was forced down on mainland China after the raid and the crew imprisoned. Barr was a prisoner of the Japanese for 3 1/2 years with most of the time spent in solitary confinement. Teammate Duane Borst served as a First Lieutenant with the Ninth Air Force B-26 Marauder Group in France, flying 43 missions over Germany.
Football legend Eddie Robinson won more than 70 percent of his games as Grambling's basketball coach from 1942-56. . . . Bob Barker, longtime host of highly-rated daytime game show The Price is Right, played for Drury (Mo.) in the early 1940s before serving in the military during WWII. . . . York (Neb.) College, boasting an enrollment of 50, upset Akron, 52-49, in the first round of the 1943 NAIA Tournament before losing to North Texas, 51-49, in the second round. Brothers Jim and Wayne Kaeding scored 78 of York's 101 points in the two contests. . . . North Carolina College's Rocky Roberson scored 58 points in a game against Shaw (N.C.) during the 1942-43 season for what was believed to be a college record at the time. . . . Fulfilling a pre-tournament agreement in 1943, players from Dakota Wesleyan (S.D.) marched to the local blood bank to donate blood to the armed forces following a 50-30 defeat against Cape Girardeau State (Mo.) in the NAIA Tournament's opening game. The two opponents had agreed the loser would donate blood. . . . More than 100 current NCAA Division I schools previously competed in the NAIA Tournament. Thirteen of the 17 different colleges to win NAIA titles from 1941 through 1963 are currently classified as NCAA Division I institutions. One of the 13 universities is Southeast Missouri State, which captured the 1943 crown after losing its first four games of the season. . . . Mississippi College defeated Mississippi State three times by double-digit margins in 1944-45. . . . Howie Schultz, a star for Hamline (Minn.) in the early 1940s, replaced Jackie Robinson at first base in Robinson's first regular-season game for the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947. . . . CIAA champion West Virginia State was the nation's only undefeated college team in 1947-48, finishing with a 23-0 record. The squad, coached by Mark Cardwell, included future NBA players Bob Wilson and Earl Lloyd. . . . UCLA legend John Wooden was in his final season as coach of Indiana State when the Sycamores lost to Louisville in the 1948 NAIA final. Curtis Walker, Indiana State's 12th man, was the first African-American player in the NAIA Tournament. The all-tourney first five included Beloit's Johnny Orr, who went on to become a longtime major-college coach. Two years later, Indiana State won the NAIA title. . . . Tennessee A&I, coached by Henry A. Kean, was the nation's only undefeated team in 1948-49 with a 24-0 record. The Tigers' leading scorers, Clarence Wilson and Joshua Grider, were both eventually longtime standouts with the Harlem Globetrotters. . . . Hamline (Minn.), the 1949 NAIA champion, had two players - center Vern Mikkelsen and forward Hal Haskins - on Converse's first three five-man All-American teams. In 1950, scribes named Haskins winner of the Metropolitan Basketball Writers Association's Gold Star Award as the outstanding visitng player in New York. In what might be the most impressive honor ever received by a small-college player, he virtually doubled the vote total of runner-up Chuck Cooper of Duquesne. North Carolina State's Sam Ranzino finished third, UCLA's George Stanich placed fourth and Holy Cross' Bob Cousy was fifth. The first five winners of the award were Penn's Howie Dallmar, DePaul's George Mikan, Kentucky's Ralph Beard, St. Louis' Ed Macauley and Denver's Vince Boryla. Haskins was among seven Hamline players who started their professional careers in an eight-year span from 1946 through 1953 under coach Joe Hutton Sr.
Morris Harvey's George King became the first college player to average 30 or more points per game in a seson when he led the nation's small-college players with a 31.2-point average in 1949-50. King went on to become a prominent major-college coach. . . . Sewanee (Tenn.) played 58 games in 10 weeks during the summer of 1951 while touring Africa and Europe with Goose Tatum, Marques Haynes and the Harlem Globetrotters. This reportedly was the first international trip for any college basketball team. . . . John Chaney scored 57 points for Bethune-Cookman FL in a 1952 game against Knoxville before becoming a Hall of Fame coach with Temple. . . . Florida A&M won the 1952 SIAC Tournament final against host Alabama State, 71-67, despite having just four players on the court the final 13-plus minutes (including two overtimes) because of players fouling out. . . . The first predominantly black college to take the floor in an integrated national collegiate tournament was Tennessee State (then Tennessee A&I) in 1953. Hall of Famer John McLendon coached Tennessee State to three consecutive national titles (1957-59). Oddly, the '53 Tennessee State team defeated McLendon-coached North Carolina College for the opportunity to go to Kansas City. . . . Seven years earlier, McLendon led North Carolina College to a 64-56 triple-overtime victory over Virginia Union in the final of the first Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association Tournament. The CIAA Tournament blossomed into one of the premier postseason events in the country, including major-college tourneys. . . . Alderson-Broaddus College's Joe Miller (3,666) and Carl Hartman (3,373) became the only pair of 3,000-point scorers in college history to be teammates (1954 and 1955). . . . Southwest Missouri, winning the 1953 NAIA crown to become the first school to capture back-to-back titles with a 32-team format, played the last 3 1/2 minutes of its semifinal game with only four players on the court after encountering foul problems. The principal reason Southwest Missouri was shorthanded stemmed from two squad members being in spring training on their way to playing 12 seasons of major league baseball - infielder Jerry Lumpe and first baseman/outfielder Norm Siebern.
Ted Cassidy, Stetson's leading scorer and rebounder in 1954-55, played the role of Lurch in The Addams Family comedy TV series. . . . Tom Hart of Middlebury (Vt.) became the greatest rebounder in collegiate history. He still holds the record for most rebounds per game in a single season (29.5 rpg as a junior in 1954-55) and in a career (27.6 rpg). His coach was former baseball major leaguer Tony Lupien. The 6-4 Hart had two 46-rebound games in 1955 and grabbed 45 in a contest the next year as a senior. In track meets, Hart routinely entered six events and often scored over half his team's points, specializing in the high jump and pole vault. . . . West Virginia Tech averaged more than 100 points per game four consecutive seasons from 1954-55 through 1957-58. . . . Bill Reigel, playing for his third college in six seasons, led the nation's small-college players with a 33.9-point average when he paced McNeese State to the 1956 NAIA Tournament title. Reigel had averaged 18 points per game for the Duquesne freshman team in 1950-51 and 16.3 points per game for the Duke varsity in 1952-53 before entering military service. He later coached McNeese for three seasons from 1971-72 through 1973-74. . . . One of McNeese's three defeats in its championship season was at Lamar, 61-60, after the Cowboys had clobbered the Cardinals (12-12) by a total of 84 points in two early-season contests. The governor of Louisiana threatened McNeese to pull out of tourney if HBCU were allowed to participate. The Cowboys ultimately went against the governor's wishes and defeated HBCU powerhouse Texas Southern in national final. . . . Long-time Buffalo Bills coach Marv Levy directed the basketball squad from Coe (Iowa) in the 1956 NAIA Tournament. . . . Lee Pfund, the coach for 1957 NCAA Division II champion Wheaton (Ill.), compiled a 3-2 pitching record for the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1945. The all-time winningest coach for Wheaton had three sons (John, Kerry and Randy) each score more than 1,150 points for the school. Randy went on to become coach of the NBA's Los Angeles Lakers before becoming vice-president of the Miami Heat. NBA coach Donn Nelson, who gained a reputation as an authority on foreign basketball talent, collected 1,460 points and 538 rebounds for Wheaton in the mid-1980s. . . . Western Illinois missed an opportunity to become the nation's only undefeated college team in 1957-58 when it lost to Tennessee State, 85-73, in the NAIA Tournament championship game. Western had defeated Tennessee State, 79-76, earlier in the season. It was one of three consecutive NAIA titles won by Tennessee State, which boasted future pros Dick Barnett, John Barnhill and Ben Warley. . . . Davis & Elkins' Paul Wilcox, 6-6, is the only player to lead the NAIA in scoring (22.6 ppg) and rebounding (22.3 rpg) in the same season (1958-59). . . . In 1959, North Carolina A&T became the first predominantly black institution to participate in NCAA Division II national playoff competition. The Aggies finished third in the tourney. . . . Jack Madden, the dean of NBA referees for an extended period, graduated from Rider (N.J.) in 1959 as the school's career leader in scoring and rebounding.
Jazz vocalist Al Jarreau, a five-time Grammy winner, played for Ripon (Wis.) in the early 1960s. . . . The NAIA All-Stars upset NCAA champion Ohio State, 76-69, in a first-round game in the 1960 Olympic Trials. The NAIA zone defense limited Buckeye All-American Jerry Lucas to 14 points. . . . The first final NCAA College Division poll in 1960-61 included three coaches - Stan Albeck (Northern Michigan), Harry Gallatin (Southern Illinois) and Butch van Breda Kolff (Hofstra) - who went on to coach in the NBA for at least four seasons. In the next 10 campaigns, three other coaches - Bill Fitch (North Dakota), Bill Musselman (Ashland) and Scotty Robertson (Louisiana Tech) - guided College Division schools to a final Top 10 spot before moving up to the NBA for at least five years. Fitch and his successor, Jimmy Rodgers, coached multiple NBA teams. . . . The 1961-62 All-SWAC first-team selections included three frontcourters who later played at least 10 seasons in the pros - Prairie View's Zelmo Beaty, Southern's Bob Love and Grambling's Willis Reed. . . . Grambling finished in the top 10 of the first 76 weeks of College Division/Division II polls from January 5, 1961 through the end of the 1966-67 campaign. The Tigers, coached by Fred Hobdy, placed in the top five 40 consecutive weeks from March 2, 1961, through January 28, 1965. Grambling supplied seven top 20 NBA draft choices in a 20-year span from 1957 through 1976 before moving up to the NCAA Division I level - Bob McCoy (10th in 1957), Hershell West (16th in 1963), Reed (10th in 1964), Wilbert Frazier (12th in 1965), Jimmy Jones (13th in 1967), Fred Hilton (19th in 1971) and Larry Wright (14th in 1976).
Ronnie Maravich, a letterman for Georgia Southern in 1961-62, is a half-brother of Hall of Famer Pete Maravich (NCAA DI all-time leading scorer from LSU). . . . North Carolina A&T's Hugh Evans, a 12th-round draft choice by the St. Louis Hawks in 1963, went on to become a long-time NBA referee. Evans, a high school teammate in New York with Connie Hawkins and a college teammate of Al Attles, spent three years in the San Francisco Giants' minor league system. . . . Longtime Harlem Globetrotter Fred "Curly" Neal was an All-CIAA selection for Johnson C. Smith (N.C.) in 1962-63. . . . South Dakota State's decisive basket in a 44-42 decision over Wittenberg (Ohio) in the 1963 College Division Tournament final was a 40-foot baseball pass by Sid Bostic that went in after the buzzer sounded while the ball was in flight. . . . Winthrop "Wink" Davenport, who holds career average (19.6 ppg) and single-game (44 points as a junior vs. Bowdoin on February 2, 1963) scoring records for Wesleyan (Conn.), is the father of former women's tennis sensation Lindsay Davenport. He played for the U.S. volleyball team in the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City. . . . John Fred Gourrier, the lead vocalist for rock-and-roll group John Fred and the Playboy Band featuring hit single Judy in Disguise, was a 6-5 forward for Southeastern Louisiana in the mid-1960s. . . . Sam Alford, father of former Indiana All-American guard Steve Alford, led the NAIA in free-throw shooting in 1963-64. The elder Alford hit 91.2% of his foul shots for Franklin (Ind.) that season. . . . Midwestern (Tex.) defeated Austin College, 14-11, in overtime in 1964. Midwestern held a 4-1 halftime lead and the teams were tied at 8-8 at the end of regulation. Midwestern had won an earlier game that season with Austin by 40 points, 92-52. . . . Bob Jones, the all-time leading rebounder for Georgetown College (Ky.), is the father of former Virginia All-American guard and coach Jeff Jones. . . . Evansville was ranked No. 1 for 19 consecutive weeks from January 30, 1964, through the end of the 1964-65 season. . . . Jerry Sloan outscored Walt Frazier, 25-16, in Evansville's 85-82 victory over Southern Illinois in the 1965 NCAA College Division Tournament final. They went on to become NBA All-Defensive Team first-team selections the same year four times in seven seasons from 1968-69 through 1974-75. . . . Emmy Award-winning writer Bob Einstein, who created the Super Dave Osborne hapless stuntman character, averaged 5 ppg and 2.9 rpg for Chapman (Calif.) in 1963-64 and 1964-65. . . . Writer-director Ron Shelton, synonymous with numerous sports movies, scored 1,420 points for Westmont (Calif.) in the mid-1960s. . . . Ken Howard, street-savvy high school teacher in CBS classic drama The White Shadow, was third-leading all-time scorer for Amherst (Mass.) when his career ended in 1966. . . . Shippensburg's team in the mid-1960s had four different players eventually coach high school state championship teams in the mid-1980s during their careers following graduation. Art Taneyhill and Reggie Weiss coached basketball champions in Pennsylvania while Harry Chapman and Jim Deibler coached football titlists. . . . Wilberforce (Ohio) forward Lonnie Lynn Sr., a 1966 NBA draft choice of the St. Louis Hawks who played in the ABA in 1969-70, is the father of entertainer "Common" (previously Common Sense), a hip hop artist, actor and rap poet who was invited to the White House by the Obama Administration. . . . In 1966-67, Cleveland State's John McLendon became the first African-American to coach at an integrated college in the United States. He had previously been the first black coach at the professional level with the ABL's Cleveland Pipers. . . . In 1966-67, Kentucky Wesleyan had its first of 13 full seasons ranked in the top 10 of College Division/Division II polls (1967-68-69-82-84-87-90-98-99-00-01-02-03). . . . Rockhurst's Ed McKee, a 10th-round choice of the ABA's Indiana Pacers in its initial draft in 1967, went on to become P.R. director of the franchise after it merged with the NBA. McKee was also SID for Indiana State when Larry Bird gained national notoriety. . . . Ashland (Ohio) was coached by Bill Musselman in 1967-68 when the school allowed only 33.9 points per game, an NCAA record. . . . Scranton (Pa.), boasting a 20-5 record in 1968-69 under coach Nat Volpe, defeated five different major colleges that season - Lehigh, Rider, Lafayette, Colgate and Seton Hall. . . . Youngstown State's John McElroy became the shortest player (6-0) ever to score 70 or more points in a game involving NCAA colleges when he scored 72 against Wayne State (Mich.) on February 26, 1969. . . . Mickey Gibson, a transfer from Kentucky who was dismissed from the Wildcats' squad by coach Adolph Rupp because he got married, set the UNC-Asheville single-game scoring record with 44 points against Washington & Lee on February 8, 1969.
The first family of small-college basketball, if not all of hoopdom, could be the six brothers Jones from McGehee, Ark., all 6-8 or taller, who became the top six rebounders in Albany (Ga.) State history during the 1960s and 1970s. Oliver and Melvin were borderline pro prospects before Wil (nine), Caldwell (17), Major (six) and Charles (15) each played a minimum of six ABA/NBA seasons. Major Jones, 6-9, led NCAA Division II rebounders in 1974-75 with an average of 22.5 per game. He is the last Division I or Division II player to average at least 20 per game.
Doug Williams, a 32-year-old Air Force veteran, earned NAIA first-team All-American honors for St. Mary's (Tex.) in 1969-70 when he averaged 18.9 points per game. He scored 24 in a 76-66 upset of Houston. . . . Elmore Smith, a 7-0 center for 1970 NAIA champion Kentucky State, was called for goal tending 12 times in a 116-98 defeat against Eastern Michigan. . . . New Orleans won 38 consecutive home games in a small arena nicknamed the "Chamber of Horrors" after losing its opener against Louisiana College in the Privateers' varsity debut in 1969-70. LC, coached by Billy Allgood, also defeated Mississippi State that season. LC beat the following six eventual DI in-state schools at least five times apiece from 1964-65 through 1974-75: Louisiana Tech, McNeese State, Nicholls State, Northeast Louisiana, Northwestern State and Southeastern Louisiana. The Wildcats also upended Tulane three times from 1962-63 through 1967-68 before becoming the first predominantly white school to play a home-and-home season series against a HBCU (Grambling in 1971-72). . . . Stephen F. Austin, the top-ranked team at the NCAA College Division level in 1969-70, had four players selected in the NBA draft after the season - Narvis Anderson, George E. Johnson, Surry Oliver and Erwin Polnick. . . . Curlee Conners, Southeastern Louisiana's leading scorer and rebounder in 1969-70 and 1970-71, is an uncle of Marcus Dupree from Philadelphia, Miss., and a central figure in the recruiting of the nation's premier prep running back by Oklahoma in the early 1980s. . . . In 1970, with an enrollment under 650 students, three Maryland State College players from a 29-2 team were selected in the NBA draft - Jake Ford (2nd round), Levi Fontaine (5th) and James "Bones" Morgan (7th). Four years later, the school (now known as Maryland-Eastern Shore) had three more players chosen from a 27-2 squad - Rubin Collins (2nd), Talvin Skinner (3rd) and William "Billy" Gordon (4th). . . . Tennessee State edged Oglethorpe (Ga.), 7-4, on February 16, 1971, in what is believed to be the lowest-scoring college game since the center jump was eliminated prior to the 1937-38 season. Tennessee State had overwhelmed Oglethorpe, 82-43, earlier in the season. . . . Louisiana Tech had two players selected fourth overall in an NBA draft - Jackie Moreland (Detroit Pistons in 1960) and Mike Green (Seattle SuperSonics in 1973). . . . Birmingham-Southern's Russell Thompson scored 25 points without making a field-goal attempt in a 55-46 victory over Florence State in the 1970-71 season. He converted 25 of 28 free throws. . . . Less than seven hours after returning to campus following a quarterfinal defeat against eventual 1971 NAIA champion Kentucky State, Grambling's Charlie Anderson died as a result of injuries suffered in a hit-and-run auto accident. Anderson, who averaged 18.3 ppg and 17.8 rpg, provided the game-winning basket in the Tigers' overtime win against Glassboro State (N.J.) in second round. . . . Kentucky State's Travis "Machine Gun" Grant set the single-game NAIA Tournament scoring record with 60 points against Minot State in 1972. Grant finished his four-year college career with 4,045 points and a 33.4-point average. . . . Roanoke guard Hal Johnston, whose athletic career was almost ended when he fractured his skull in a fall from a truck as a senior in high school, was a runaway choice for most outstanding player honors at the 1972 NCAA College Division Tournament. . . . Robert "Firechief" Smith came to USC-Spartanburg in 1972 as a 34-year-old center, powering USCS to its first two winning seasons. He averaged 9.9 rpg in 1973-74, when he was named MVP of the Palmetto Conference Tournament - the first title of any kind in the history of the program. . . . Guilford won the 1973 NAIA Tournament with a lineup that included included three future NBA players - Lloyd Free, M.L. Carr and Greg Jackson. Guilford's top reserve was Steve Hankins, a 6-6, 220-pound, 28-year-old Marine Corps veteran who had served 44 months in Vietnam and was one of the military pallbearers at President Kennedy's funeral. . . . Guilford (N.C.) and Tennessee State are the only two small colleges to have two alums score more than 20 points per game in an NBA season - Free and Bob Kaufmann attended Guilford, while Dick Barnett and Truck Robinson attended Tennessee State.
Guard Greg Procell averaged 11.5 ppg in two seasons for Northwestern State in 1972-73 and 1973-74. Procell, a native of Noble, La. (Ebarb H.S.), held the national high school scoring record (6,702 points) until 2002 when it was broken by Jeremy Monceaux at Parkway Christian Academy of Birmingham, Ala., after Monceaux played varsity as a seventh- and eighth-grader at Spencer, La. Procell's NSU-career high was 27 points as a junior in a 76-70 overtime loss at Northeast Louisiana. He originally signed with Southwestern Louisiana, but when the Rajun Cajuns' program was shut down for NCAA infractions Procell attended Panola (Tex.) Community College, where he averaged 33.7 ppg as a freshman and 28.5 ppg as a sophomore. Procell, who had a J.C. single-game high of 57 points, became a fishing guide on Toledo Bend and an assistant principal at Huntington High in Shreveport. . . . Leon Gobczynski, a 6-10 center, averaged 36.1 points per game for Millikin (Ill.) in the 1973-74 season despite being blanked by Augustana (Ill.) in an 88-61 defeat. Gobczynski, who had scored 43 points in an earlier game that year between the two teams, missed all nine of his field-goal attempts in 36 minutes of playing time. . . . Salem (W. Va.) College's Archie Talley set an NAIA record for most points in a season (1,347) in 1975-76 when he averaged 40.8 per game. . . . Philadelphia Textile defeated a different Big Five school in three consecutive seasons from 1975-76 through 1977-78 - Villanova twice, Temple and St. Joseph's. . . . Amherst's Jim Rehnquist, son of Supreme Court Justice William Rehnquist, finished fifth in NCAA Division III scoring in 1976-77 with an average of 27.8 points per game. . . . Dave Robbins, who is white, became coach at Virginia Union in 1978-79 in the predominantly black CIAA. Robbins went on to win more CIAA Tournaments than any coach in league history. VUU finished in the Top 10 of final national rankings nine consecutive seasons from 1987-88 through 1995-96 and 12 of 13 beginning in 1983-84. . . . Former Briar Cliff (Iowa) players comprised Panama's entire starting lineup in the 1987 Pan American Games. Four members of Briar Cliff's "Panamanian Pipeline" were selected in NBA drafts from 1978 through 1981 (Mario Butler, Rolando Frazer, Tito Malcolm and Ed Warren). In the late 1980s, the first five spots on the school's career scoring list were Panamanians.
Mark Curry, a comedian starring in ABC's hit black sitcom Hangin' With Mr. Cooper, played center with California State-Hayward for three seasons in the early 1980s. . . . When Tampa resurrected its men's program in 1983-84 after a 13-year hiatus, coach Richard Schmidt took his first-year squad, starting one junior transfer and four freshmen, and won the Sunshine State Conference postseason tournament and automatic bid to the NCAA playoffs en route to a 20-11 record. It was the first time in NCAA history that a first-year team in any division qualified for the national tourney. Schmidt is a professional aviculturist who breeds exotic birds and raises other prize-winning animals on his ranch. Entertainer Wayne Newton has purchased birds from him. . . . Ron Morse, averaging a modest 3.6 ppg, lifted Fort Hays State (Kan.) to an 82-80 overtime triumph against Wayland Baptist (Tex.) in 1985 NAIA tourney final with a 15-fgoot game-winning, buzzer-beater. The unlikely hero is the son of Fort Hays coach Bill Morse. . . . Southeastern Oklahoma's Dennis Rodman registered 46 points and 32 rebounds in a single NAIA Tournament game in 1986. His rebounding total is tied for the most in a single game in tourney history. . . . Former Phoenix Suns/Seattle SuperSonics coach Paul Westphal guided Grand Canyon (Ariz.) to the 1988 NAIA title. . . . Four of the eight NAIA finals from 1981 through 1988 required extra sessions. Nine of 11 championship games in one stretch were decided in overtime or by fewer than six points in regulation. . . . Chuck Randall, Western Washington's longtime coach, invented the Slam-Dunk basketball rim. . . . Gary Lydic, a guard for the junior varsity as a freshman at McPherson (Kan.) and student assistant coach as a senior, served as director of ministry services for Focus on the Family when the organization was headquartered in Pasadena, Calif. On the morning Hall of Famer Pete Maravich died of a heart attack stemming from a heart defect, Lydic was among the men playing with him in a pickup game before the 40-year-old legend was slated to be interviewed on a Christian radio program. . . . Michael Jordan wasn't the best former college basketball standout performing as an outfielder with Birmingham (AA Southern League) in the Chicago White Sox's farm system in 1994. The superior baseball player was teammate Scott Tedder, a 6-4 lefthander who graduated as Ohio Wesleyan's all-time leading scorer in 1988. Tedder, playing about 1/4 of the '94 season in the league with Orlando, hit .281 while Jordan managed a lowly .202 and amassed more than 2 1/2 times as many strikeouts (114). Tedder posted a .261 average over five years with the Barons. . . . The pep song for Chadron (Neb.) State should have been "Here's to Mrs. Robinson" during eight seasons from 1988-89 through 1995-96 when three brothers (Josh, Jason and Jeremy Robinson) played for the Eagles. Each of Gerry and Triss Robinson's sons was a four-year starter and they collaborated for 5,081 points and 2,138 rebounds in a total of 330 games. No one can determine for sure, but they might have combined for more points and rebounds than any other trio of brothers at any single college. Josh, the eldest brother, finished his career as the school's all-time leading scorer (2,041 points). . . . Marquette's Al McGuire wasn't the only former Belmont Abbey (N.C.) coach to make a name for himself at the major-college level. All four Belmont Abbey coaches in the 1980s went on to coach Division I schools - Bobby Hussey (Davidson/Virginia Tech), Eddie Payne (East Carolina/Oregon State), Kevin Eastman (UNC Wilmington/Washington State) and Rick Scruggs (Gardner-Webb). . . . Todd Beamer, a backup guard for Wheaton (Ill.) in 1988-89, was the Oracle Corp account manager traveling from New Jersey to California on United Airlines Flight 93 for a business meeting on September 11, 2001, when helping lead a "let's roll" takeover by passengers from Islamic terrorists, forcing the plane down in Pennsylvania countryside about 80 miles southeast of Pittsburgh.
Todd Rowe, a 1992 graduate who is the all-time leading scorer for Malone (Ohio), became the first player in a professional Chinese league to score 3,000 points before he moved on to a league in Japan. . . . Bob Hoffman was deprived of becoming the first coach in NAIA history to guide men's and women's champions when No. 1 seed Oklahoma Baptist bowed to Hawaii Pacific (88-83) in the 1993 championship game. Hoffman had directed Southern Nazarene (Okla.) to the 1989 NAIA women's title. . . . John Pierce of David Lipscomb (Tenn.) became college basketball's all-time leading scorer after totaling 33 points in his 1993-94 regular-season finale, a 119-102 triumph over Cumberland. Pierce's 4,110 total career points broke former roommate Phil Hutcheson's mark of 4,106 set in the 1990 NAIA Tournament. . . . NAIA powerhouse Life (Ga.) had a 99-game homecourt winning streak, the third longest in college history, snapped by Talladega (Ala.), 75-72, in January 1999. Talladega was an unlikely spoiler, having won just two of its first 16 games that season. Life went on to become the first unseeded team to win the NAIA Tournament by overcoming a 26-point deficit to frustrate Mobile, 63-60. . . . Central Arkansas ranks among the schools for most NAIA Tournament appearances but none of those were when 1992 U.S. basketball Olympian and Chicago Bulls star Scottie Pippen played for the Bears. . . . David Lipscomb's Don Meyer reached the 700-win plateau quicker than any coach in college history. He compiled 702 victories through 1998-99 in 24 seasons before leaving for Northern State (S.D.) when he disagreed with Lipscomb's decision to move up to NCAA Division I. His 1989-90 squad won a college basketball-record 41 games. Meyer, atop the NCAA win list among active coaches with 891 at the time in 2008, had his left leg amputated below the knee after an auto accident. Meyer either fell asleep or was distracted when his car crossed the center line and collided with a semi. Meyer, 63, was diagnosed with a slow-growing cancer in his liver and bowels that doctors said might not have been found had he not been injured. . . . Six different members of the MIAA (Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association) from the state of Missouri - Central Missouri State, Missouri-Rolla, Missouri Southern, Missouri Western, Northwest Missouri State and Southwest Baptist - finished with a final Top 10 ranking in a 12-year span from 1990-91 through 2001-02. . . . Prior to the inaugural season for Westminster (Pa.) in the NCAA in 1998-99, the Titans were acknowledged as the all-time winningest program in NAIA history with 1,299 victories. . . . Danny Miles, en route to reaching the 1,000-win plateau in 2013-14, earned triumph No. 400 in 4 1/2 hours because a broken rim at Simpson College in Redding, Calif., forced the game to be moved 20 miles to another facility. In college at Southern Oregon, Miles set the all-time pass completion percentage record for both NCAA and NAIA for a single season based on 225 attempts (1965, 190-247, .769) and career percentage based on 500 completions (1964-67, 577-871, .662).
Three different North Dakota State coaches the first three years of the 21st Century - Ray Giacoletti, Greg McDermott and Tim Miles - went on to guide other schools at the NCAA Division I level to national postseason competition. . . . Kenyan Charles Maina, who led Lynn (Fla.) in blocked shots two seasons in the late 1990s, starred in the nationally-acclaimed movie "The Air Up There." . . . Haitian Robert Joseph of Union (Tenn.) surpassed David Robinson's record by becoming the single-season blocked shots leader for all levels of college basketball with 242 rejections in 2001-02. . . . The College of Staten Island (N.Y.) started hosting an in-season tournament, called CSI Tournament of Heroes, to pay homage to three former CSI players (Terrance Aiken, Scott Davidson and Tom Hannafin) who perished during the terorist attacks of September 11, 2001. Aiken had just started a computer consulting job on the 97th floor of World Trade Center Tower I while Davidson and Hannafin were New York City firefighters. . . . Jaeson Maravich, a son of NCAA all-time leading scorer Pete Maravich, was an NAIA All-American for William Carey (Miss.) in 2002-03 and 2003-04. Jaeson previously had stints with Alabama and McNeese State sidetracked by a back ailment. . . . Hope International (Calif.) ended a 60-game losing streak with a 94-84 win over Redlands (Calif.) in 2003-04. . . . Jack Bennett, the coach of Wisconsin-Stevens Point's 2004 NCAA Division III champion, is a brother of Dick Bennett, who guided Wisconsin to the 2000 NCAA Division I Tournament Final Four. Just like Dick had a son (Tony) play for him at Wisconsin-Green Bay, Jack had a son (Nick) who supplied 83 three-pointers for the Pointers in 2003-04. . . . Grinnell (Iowa) set an NCAA single-season scoring record for all levels by averaging 126.2 points per game in 2003-04. The Pioneers (18-6) had more three-pointers (530) than either two-point baskets (472) or free throws (495). Boasting eight players with more than 25 treys, they scored fewer than 100 points only three times. Grinnell coach David Arseneault had his teams press from the start and they would surrender a layup for a chance to come back down and take a three-point shot. The Pioneers hit 530 of 1,582 attempts from beyond the arc (33.5%).
The Moir family has accounted for more than 1,500 college victories. Page Moir became the all-time winningest coach for a school, Roanoke (Va.), where his father, Charles, won the 1972 NCAA College Division crown before coaching at the Division I level with Virginia Tech and Tulane. Charles' brother, Sam, coached at Catawba (N.C.) for 31 seasons. . . . In 2006, Texas Wesleyan became the fourth unseeded team in eight years to capture the NAIA Division I title. Three years later, Rocky Mountain (Mont.) defeated Columbia (Mo.) in the first championship game between two unseeded teams since seeding was introduced in 1957. . . . In 2011, Georgetown College (Ky.) became the first school to appear in at least 30 NAIA tourneys while becoming the initial institution to make 20 consecutive trips. Georgetown's emotional run to the 1996 tourney final was in honor of its dying coach, Jim Reid, who battled cancer before dying less than a month after the campaign concluded. . . . Brian Rice, a 43-year-old Navy retiree, was a backup for Geneva (Pa.) in 2012-13.
Numerous small-college hoopers were so versatile they eventually excelled professionally in other major sports. Earning acclaim as MLB All-Stars were: George Altman (Tennessee State), Glenn Beckert (Allegheny PA), Frank Bolling (Spring Hill AL), Al Bumbry (Virginia State), Mickey Cochrane (Boston University), George Crowe (Indiana Central), Larry Doby (Virginia Union), Rick Ferrell (Guilford NC), Wayne Gross (Cal Poly Pomona), Mike Hargrove (Northwestern Oklahoma State), Chuck Hinton (Shaw NC), Gil Hodges (St. Joseph's IN/Oakland City IN), Monte Irvin (Lincoln PA), Duane Josephson (Northern Iowa), David Justice (Thomas More KY), Dave Lemanczyk (Hartwick NY), Danny Litwhiler (Bloomsburg PA), Davey Lopes (Iowa Wesleyan/Washburn KS), Jerry Lumpe (Southwest Missouri State), Bake McBride (Westminster MO), Graig Nettles (San Diego State), Bill Nicholson (Washington College MD), Joe Niekro (West Liberty WV), Claude Passeau (Millsaps MS), Gary Peters (Grove City PA), Rip Repulski (St. Cloud State MN), Preacher Roe (Harding AR), Richie Scheinblum (LIU-C.W. Post), Hal Schumacher (St. Lawrence NY), Jeff Shaw (Rio Grande OH), Norm Siebern (Southwest Missouri State), Matt Thornton (Grand Valley State MI), Bob Veale (Benedictine KS), Wes Westrum (Bemidji State MN) and Bill White (Hiram OH). Ex-hoopers among NFL/AFL Pro Bowl selections included: Ken Anderson (Augustana IL), Ordell Braase (South Dakota), Marlin Briscoe (Nebraska-Omaha), Buck Buchanan (Grambling), Harold Carmichael (Southern LA), Ben Coates (Livingstone NC), Charley Cowan (New Mexico Highlands), Elbert Dubenion (Bluffton OH), London Fletcher (John Carroll OH), Len Ford (Morgan State), Jean Fugett (Amherst MA), Bill Groman (Heidelberg OH), Harlon Hill (Florence State AL), Vincent Jackson (Northern Colorado), Dave Jennings (St. Lawrence NY), Too Tall Jones (Tennessee State), Jacoby Jones (Lane TN), Gary Larsen (Concordia MN), Joe Lavender (San Diego State), Rolland Lawrence (Tabor KS), Cy McClairen (Bethune-Cookman FL), Bob McLeod (Abilene Christian TX), Zeke Moore (Lincoln MO), Elvin "Kink" Richards (Simpson IA), Art Shell (Maryland-Eastern Shore), Rod Smith (Missouri Southern State), Ed Sprinkle (Hardin-Simmons TX), Lionel Taylor (New Mexico Highlands), Otis Taylor (Prairie View A&M) and Rayfield Wright (Fort Valley State GA).
Smaller colleges, many from the hinterlands, supplied a striking number of the biggest names in major-college coaching. From 1995 through 2000, five of the six NCAA Division I Tournament championship coaches graduated from obscure colleges with significantly smaller enrollments - Jim Calhoun (American International MA), Jim Harrick (Charleston WV), Tom Izzo (Northern Michigan), Lute Olson (Augsburg MN) and Tubby Smith (High Point NC). In fact, it is rare for a Final Four not to feature at least one coach from a humble background. John Calipari, a graduate of Clarion (Pa.) State, guided Kentucky to the 2012 national championship before Michigan's John Beilein (Wheeling Jesuit NY), Wichita State's Gregg Marshall (Randolph-Macon VA) and Butler's Brad Stevens (DePauw IN) directed teams to the Final Four this decade. Small-school hoopers who coached prominent universities to multiple bowl games include Dan Devine (Minnesota-Duluth), Tom Osborne (Hastings NE) and Bobby Petrino (Carroll MT). Title game coaches in the NFL and AFL after playing small-college hoops include Wally Lemm (Carroll WI) and Marv Levy (Coe IA). Status as a cash cow notwithstanding, it would appear no one should have been able to accuse the NCAA hierarchy of unabashed favoritism for the DI level. After all, former Executive Director Cedric Dempsey (Albion MI) and former enforcement chief David Berst (MacMurray IL) were small-school hoopers. Dempsey coached his alma mater after he was named MIAA MVP in 1953-54. Berst averaged 6.3 ppg and 4 rpg and held the school's baseball record for best ERA in a career before coaching both sports at his alma mater.
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