In March of 1975, over 50 years ago, the Columbus North men’s basketball team – coached by Bill Stearman and led by the senior starting five of David Welmer, Randy Goins, John Patchell, Steve Krakoski, and Dan Miles – won two exciting Semi-State games at Hinkle Field House and qualified for the State Final Four at Market Square Arena.  It would be the last time the Bull Dog men’s team would advance that far in the State tournament – but hope springs eternal for future success.

Highlighted by a thrilling Regional Finals victory at Memorial Gym over archrival Martinsville (led by Jerry Sichting, who later starred for Purdue in college and the Boston Celtics in the NBA), this team gave its fans and the city of Columbus something to be proud of in a time when “Hoosier Hysteria” was the biggest thing in High School sports.

The 1975 team was, arguably, the greatest basketball team in Columbus North history (with the 1963 and 1964 teams of Bill Russell and Jerry Newsom willing to argue about the greatest teams in Columbus High School history.

Columbus North fans will have the opportunity to honor the great 1975 team on December 12th at halftime of the CNHS versus Greensburg game at Memorial Gym.  Team members, coaches, cheerleaders, and student managers that made up the 1975 team will be introduced and a short ceremony will celebrate the Final Four accomplishment.

The Bull Dog Alumni Association will host a private reception for team members and their families prior to the game – where Sam Simmermaker will present his recollections of the historic season and team members will share memories.  Each team member, coach, cheerleader, and student manager will receive a specially engraved floorboard (from the original Memorial gym floor) to commemorate the occasion.

All CNHS alumni, family, friends, and fans are encouraged to attend the game and stay in their seats at halftime to show their respect and appreciation for one of the greatest teams in CNHS history.

 

CNHS vs Greensburg MBB game: December 12, 2025 – Varsity tip-off around 7:30 PM!