Growing up in northwestern Ohio during the 1960s, one could not help but experience college basketball at any higher degree than on the campus of Bowling Green State University and the infamous Anderson Arena, which was replaced by the Stroh Center this year.

During a highly popular attraction, the closing of the “House That Roars” (Anderson Arena), I was able to have a postgame experience that will go down in my history book as a real “hot ticket.”

Anderson Arena, named after the late Harold “Andy” Anderson, who coached at Waite before winning over 500 games at BGSU, was well represented by his lovely daughter at the SamB’s restaurant post game reception. She graced the entire group with her loving smile and true empathy for all the players and visitors.

Jackie Motycka (photo BGSU/SID)

Three of the “top 13” who were honored that day were, at one time or another, good friends of mine. Nate Thurmond was one of my first college basketball players I met as a young player in 1963 with Howard “Butch” Komives (Woodward) — one of my basketball idols.

On a cold winter’s night in February of 1963, the second in the nation-ranked Loyola of Chicago, which would later win the NCAA tournament title, came into Wood County and Anderson Arena, only to finish second to the BGSU Falcons. Led by future NBA stars Thurmond and Komives, Bowling Green won, 92-75. SamB’s, then under different ownership and called Kaufman’s, was the home of many a great victory celebration.

Over the years, stars such as Anthony Stacy, Antonio Daniels, Ron Hammye (Genoa), and Jackie Motycka (Convoy Crestview) made their own magical moments at Anderson Arena. Last year, BG standout Lauren Prochaska eclipsed Motycka to become the school’s all-time leading scorer, man or woman.

One of the best shooters I have ever played against in high school (Genoa) or college was Rossford’s Jim Penix, who would become BGSU Mid-American Conference Player of the Year in 1970. It was great to spend some quality time with Jim and another former Northern Lakes League shooter, Jim Bunke (Lake, 1967).

We were able to enjoy the fine atmosphere, excellent food, and spirits of SamB’s, while reminiscing many high school games between Genoa, Lake, and Rossford. SamB’s “back room” has always been a super place to relax and talk basketball.

I was fortunate enough to be the head coach four years at nearby Elmwood High School. Our coaching staff enjoyed many post game evenings in Kaufman’s (SamB’s) “back room.”

Reprinted with permission from Western Basin-Toledo Magazine, Volume XXXV, which is published by author Arnie Sutter. Sutter is a former Genoa basketball player who later became a high school, AAU, and college coach.

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