Remembering Bob Hammel: A Pillar of Indiana Sports Journalism

July 22, 2025 - 01:05

Bob Hammel, a revered figure in Indiana sports journalism, has passed away at the age of 88. Over a remarkable 52-year career, Hammel covered an impressive 23 NCAA Final Fours and 29 Indiana high school basketball tournament championships. His dedication to sports writing was matched only by his deep friendship with the legendary Hall of Fame coach Bob Knight.

A lifelong resident of Indiana, Hammel spent 40 years at the Bloomington Herald-Telephone and later the Herald-Times, where he served as sports editor for three decades. His contributions to journalism were widely recognized, earning him induction into several prestigious halls of fame, including the U.S. Basketball Writers Association, Football Writers Association of America, Indiana Journalism, and Indiana University Athletics.

Hammel's legacy extends beyond his written words; he was a passionate advocate for Indiana sports, leaving an indelible mark on the community he loved. His passing is a significant loss for the world of sports journalism and for all who knew him.