Nomination year: 2022

Nominated by: Thomas Watson

Nomination category: Athletes & Coaches

Sport: Basketball & Baseball

Years participating: 1978-1981

Career summary:

Mike Strong was an impressive two-sport star at Celina High School from 1978 to 1981 and made his mark both in basketball and baseball.

As a crafty point guard, Strong joined the 1,000-point club in his career, averaged a double-double (points/assists) in 1980, and was named all-region.

Strong was a four-year letterman on the hardwood and started two years for the Bulldogs. He played on two District Championship teams and a Region Championship team—which advanced to a substate game and missed out on the State Tournament by a one-point loss.

Strong finished with a 9-2 record as Celina’s star pitcher during the 1980 baseball season. He also played in the outfield and batted over .300.

Due to his prowess on the diamond, Strong was selected to play in the TACA All-Star Game, where he pitched and recorded the win in relief.

Nominator comment:

“Mike was a great basketball player who scored over 1,000 points, but when you also consider how good he was at baseball, especially as a pitcher, he is a solid hall of fame candidate deserving of induction.”