By Skip Coopersmith

CINCINNATI — The Cincinnati men’s basketball program is saddened to report that Fritz Meyer, a member of the 1963 national runner-up team and prominent alumni liaison, has passed away at 80.

Meyer helped lead Cincinnati’s Elder High School to its first undefeated regular season and No. 1 state ranking coming to UC. He was on the freshman team when the Bearcats claimed the 1962 repeat national title. Meyer and several other members of that era began weekly Wednesday McDonald’s meetings in St. Bernard, as chronicled in the Cincinnati Enquirer, that welcomed alumni of all decades.

“I’ve had the pleasure of spending time with Fritz over the last two years,” head coach Wes Miller said. “He cared deeply about our community, our university and our basketball program. His connection with his National Championship teammates was special. We are saddened by his sudden passing and our thoughts and condolences are with Fritz’s family and friends.”

Meyer, a three-year letterwinner, was a sophomore on the 1963 squad, UC’s fifth-straight Final Four team. He also played an instrumental role in organizing this summer’s 1961 championship watch party at the Mariemont Theatre, alumni golf outings and many more endeavors. Meyer also served as a longtime Hamilton County jury commissioner.

COURTESY UC SPORTS COMMUNICATIONS