Twenty-five years after a plane carrying members of the Oklahoma State University men’s basketball program crashed in Colorado, killing everyone on board, the loss is still deeply felt across the OSU community.
News On 6 will air a “Remember the Ten” special, reflecting on the tragedy and the legacy of those who were lost, on Tuesday, Jan. 27.
Grief that never leaves
News On 6 Sports Director John Holcomb said families and friends continue to carry the loss with them every day.
“For so many of the people we spoke with, it’s an everyday thing,” Holcomb said. “The people who were lost are always on the family members’ minds.”
He said many families also expressed gratitude for the support they received from the OSU community.
“What has really resonated is how grateful they are for the strength the OSU family has given them during tough times,” Holcomb said.
Why the story still matters
For many, the story must be retold so younger generations understand what happened and never forget.
Holcomb said many current students were not born when the crash happened.
“It’s important to make sure the generation who wasn’t alive understands what this meant to the university,” Holcomb said.
He also referenced former OSU President James Halligan’s pledge after the crash.
“He was the first one to say it, ‘We will always remember the ten.’ So, there are those who have made sure that’s happened and they’ve done it in a classy way.”
A night many still remember
The team had been returning from a game in Colorado when one of three chartered planes crashed, killing 10 people, along with the pilot and co-pilot.
Holcomb said accuracy and sensitivity were critical as the news unfolded.
“It’s not so much about being first as it is being right and showing respect for the families,” he said.
He said he learned about the crash after a call from a friend who feared he had been on the flight.
“That’s how I found out about it,” Holcomb said. “Then obviously the pain and knowing so many friends.”
Remembering and honoring lives lost
Several of the victims had deep ties to the Oklahoma broadcast community and local universities, and their influence is still felt across the state.
“You just don’t know the impact of these lives and where they would be today, and how their influence would have continued,” Holcomb said. “So, I think it’s really important, and I’m grateful that our sports department has worked on this.”
You can watch the “Remember the Ten” special at 6:30 p.m. on News On 6.
