Recently, Bowie High School recognized one of its brightest athletic achievements ever with a ceremony honoring the 1974 state boys’ basketball champions.
There’s a reason why the current Jackrabbit players wear a No. 42 on their T-shirts because it’s been that long since Bowie copped a state title on the boys’ side.
In a couple of weeks, there will be a ceremony to honor the 1995 state champion girls’ squad.
Many people from that 1974 team returned for a reception and ceremony during halftime of the girls’ game between Bowie and Nocona.
There also was an auction for a quilt and basketball, won by Verna Mae Brashear and her husband, Bobbie, whose son Bobbie Jr. was on the ’74 state champions.
Bowie had a remarkable season, compiling a record of 25-5 including the Conference 2A state title game victory over Friona 76-66.
“They were all complete players,” then Bowie head coach Gayno Shelton said. “They were all a threat to score, and they all played sound defense. We really didn’t have any weaknesses.”
Shelton, who had 19 playoff teams in 30 seasons at Bowie, said the 1974 state champions showed the resolve to win a title.

Editor’s Note: The Storm Center column is the expressed written views of sports editor Eric Viccaro and not The Bowie News.

Here’s a look at the 1974 Bowie state championship squad from that championship season. Bowie defeated Friona 76-66 for the Conference 2A state championship in Austin. (Courtesy photo)