Bushnell University

One of the true pioneers of NCU athletics, Wayne Osborn was the first coach of the Crusaders men’s basketball team. Osborn coached from 1959-1964, collecting 62 victories which are tied for third all-time.
 
In just his second season at the helm of the Crusaders, Osborn led NCC to the Willamette Christian College Conference championship with a 10-2 record in conference and a 16-3 overall mark. He also had a pair of second-place finishes to his credit.
 
Osborn was also working as the minister of Thurston Christian Church during his time with the Crusaders. He was a well loved and respected man who was an inspiration to his players. His emphasis on dedication, scholarship, and Christian sportsmanship helped lay the foundation for an NCU athletic department that remains committed to a Christ-centered approach to competition.
 
Coach Osborn graduated from NCC in 1945, earning a bachelor’s degree in theology. He passed away in 2005. At the time of his death, at the age of 87, he was still working as the Minister of Visitation for Hope Christian Church in Central Point, Oregon.