18/05/2026
The 1960 Ohio State Buckeyes men's basketball team is celebrated as the school's greatest era, capturing their sole NCAA National Championship under legendary coach Fred Taylor. The team was characterized by an electrifying fast-break style that set a school record with an average of 90.4 points per game, finishing the season with a remarkable 25–3 record. Key players included Hall of Famer Jerry Lucas, who was the tournament's Most Outstanding Player and shot 63% from the field, and John Havlicek, known for his relentless defense and future NBA success. The roster also featured Larry Siegfried and Mel Nowell, a dynamic backcourt duo, along with Bob Knight, a reserve forward who would later become a renowned college basketball coach. Their victory over California in the final, 75–55, remains a historic highlight in Ohio State athletics.
Roster:
Jerry Lucas (C, Sophomore) — Tournament Most Outstanding Player; Hall of Famer.
John Havlicek (F, Sophomore) — 8x NBA Champion with the Celtics; Hall of Famer.
Larry Siegfried (G, Junior) — 5x NBA Champion
Mel Nowell (G, Sophomore) — All-Big Ten standout
Joe Roberts (F, Senior) — Team Co-Captain
Bob Knight (F, Sophomore) — Reserve forward; went on to become a legendary hall-of-fame coach.
Richie Hoyt (F, Junior)
Dick Furry (F, Senior)
Gary Gearhart (G, Sophomore)
Howard Nourse (C, Senior)
Richard Reasbeck (G)
John Noble
James Allen (G)