Columbus Hines, a Kentucky native who settled in Ohio, built the Dixie High School program into a dynasty. Over 31 seasons he compiled a 277‑57 record, captured two state championships and guided the Greyhounds to a school‑record 27 straight victories in the 1957‑58 campaign before a heartbreaking loss in the state semifinals.
Hines' impact extended beyond wins. He passed away at age 58 from a heart attack on July 28, 1968, a loss felt deeply by players, alumni and the broader community. In recognition of his contributions, he was inducted into the Ohio Basketball Hall of Fame in 2011, cementing his place among the state's most influential figures in the sport.
Stars Who Carried the Torch
The next generation of talent that emerged under Hines' guidance reads like a who's who of Ohio basketball lore. Derek Sizemore set multiple school scoring records, including the all‑time career points mark and a single‑game high of 55 points. Larry Wilson, a 1966 Class A first‑team All‑Ohio selection, led the Greyhounds to a state title and later earned acclaim for his relentless rebounding.
Phil Hoke became the program's all‑time leading rebounder and earned two‑time AA All‑Ohio honors, while Gary Peffly guided the 1981 squad to the Class AA state final. Alumni such as Al Peters, Doug Dafler, Gary Gearhart and Gary Peffly (note: duplicate name, keep as is) also left indelible marks, each contributing to the rich tapestry of Dixie basketball history.
The legacies of these athletes are preserved not only in school records but also in the broader basketball community. Their stories are celebrated in the Dixie Athletic Hall of Fame and referenced by contemporary programs seeking inspiration from the past. The continued reverence for these figures underscores how a small town's basketball culture can influence generations of players and fans alike.