Oglethorpe University

The 1962-63 men’s basketball team, led by legendary coach Garland Pinholster, recorded one of the greatest seasons in Oglethorpe athletics history. 

The Stormy Petrels  finished third in the nation after falling to Wittenberg in the NCAA semifinals, then defeating Southern Illinois. The team held Oglethorpe’s highest NCAA finish until 2009 (men’s golf). The Petrels also brought home a regional title, and Pinholster’s iconic wheel offense strategy is cited as a major reason for the team’s victory that season.  

Players: Bill Carrigan, Joe Carter, Jimbo Hartlage, Morris Mitchell, Bob Nance (captain) Bobby Sexton, Ray Thomas, Donnie Owens, Ronnie Owens, Bill Parker, Darrell Whitfield (captain), and Darrell Whitford.