North Caddo Rebels’ Historic 1966 State Championship

The North Caddo Rebels celebrating their unforgettable 1966 state championship win.

News Summary

Shreveport reminisces about the North Caddo Rebels boys basketball team, which clinched the 1966 state championship under Coach Billy Wiggins. The team’s impressive record and key players like Mike Durham and Pete Schuler showcased remarkable talent, leading to their memorable victory over Zachary. This championship not only marks a significant achievement in sports but also unites the Shreveport community in pride and nostalgia.

Shreveport’s Basketball Glory: Remembering the 1966 North Caddo Rebels’ State Championship

Shreveport is buzzing with nostalgia as it looks back on a historic moment from the past—a moment when the North Caddo Rebels boys basketball team made waves by clinching its only state championship in 1966. This championship holds a special place not just in the hearts of the players, coaches, and fans, but also within the rich tradition of high school basketball in Louisiana.

The Road to Victory

Guided by the talented Coach Billy Wiggins, the Rebels stormed through the season with an impressive record of 33 wins and just 4 losses. Their teamwork and dedication set them apart, creating a solid foundation for an unforgettable championship run. The championship game took place at the then-named Hirsch Youth Center in Shreveport, where the final whistle would echo triumphantly for the Rebels, marking the end of the last ever Top Twenty State Tournament to be held in this local gem.

Championship Climax

North Caddo faced the formidable Zachary in the title game. From the get-go, the Rebels showcased their determination and skill by building an early lead that left spectators in awe. By the end of the first quarter, they had surged ahead with a score of 24-10—a thrilling start that set the stage for their ultimate victory. At halftime, the Rebels were ahead with a commanding 40-25 lead.

Even as Zachary, the defending 8-AA champion led by Coach Phil Haley, attempted to rally in the second half, they could only narrow the gap to 10 points. The Rebels maintained their composure and continued to outplay their rivals. The final score of 73-59 sent the North Caddo fans into joyous celebration, confirming their status as state champions.

Record Breakers of the Tournament

The championship game highlighted the incredible talents of several key players. Leading the charge was Mike Durham, who netted an impressive 26 points, contributing to his record-setting tournament performance where he made a total of 21 field goals and scored 55 points throughout. Not to be outdone, fellow Class AA All-Stater Pete Schuler played a crucial role by scoring 18 points, including an outstanding 6-of-8 at the free throw line, and setting a tournament record with 19 free throws made over the series.

Also making significant contributions was Jerry Carlisle, who added 14 points with an impressive shooting game, affirming the Rebels’ offensive strength. These individual performances helped break multiple records during the tournament and firmly established North Caddo as a powerhouse in Class AA basketball.

The Legacy of Coach Wiggins

Coach Billy Wiggins, recognized as one of the best guards in Louisiana Tech history, left a significant mark on the basketball program at North Caddo. Following the 1966 championship, he took the head coaching position at Captain Shreve. Under his leadership, the Gators made a strong run and finished as the state runner-up in the 1969-70 season. Wiggins continued to wield his influence in the world of basketball, winning a championship in the Louisiana Independent Schools Association in 1979-80.

A Community United

The 1966 championship is not just an achievement in sports; it represents a sense of pride for the Shreveport community. The memories of cheers from fans, the thrill of victory, and a unified town celebrating its young athletes linger in the hearts of many. Even as the venue moved to the Rapides Coliseum in Alexandria the following year, the legacy of the North Caddo Rebels and their legendary season will forever shine brightly in the fabric of Louisiana high school basketball history.

As Shreveport takes a trip down memory lane, it’s clear that the spirit of those Rebels lives on, their stories inspiring new generations of athletes and reminding everyone that with teamwork and a dash of determination, anything is possible.