Ted Kitchel: Indiana Hoosiers’ Silent Assassin of the Early ’80s

When fans recall the golden era of Indiana Hoosiers basketball under Bob Knight, names like Isiah Thomas and Steve Alford often dominate the conversation. But nestled in that same pantheon of Hoosier legends is Ted Kitchel, a sharpshooting forward who defined consistency, toughness, and quiet leadership. His basketball journey from a small-town Indiana kid to All-American status remains one of the most compelling stories in IU history.

From Cassville to Bloomington

Ted Kitchel hailed from Cassville, Indiana, a small community near Kokomo. Like many Hoosier kids, basketball was more than just a sport—it was a lifestyle. Kitchel starred at Lewis Cass High School, where his scoring and all-around game caught the attention of college recruiters across the state. In 1978, Kitchel committed to play for Bob Knight’s Indiana Hoosiers, joining a program fresh off a 1976 undefeated national championship season and known for its discipline, defense, and motion offense.

Early Years and Setbacks (1978–1980)

Kitchel’s freshman year was a period of adjustment. The Hoosiers were loaded with talent, and Kitchel spent much of his first two seasons learning Knight’s demanding system. A back injury in his sophomore year limited his playing time and development. But instead of being discouraged, Kitchel used the time to study the game, perfect his jumper, and prepare for a breakout.

Breakout and Ascendance (1980–81)

By the 1980–81 season, Kitchel was healthy and ready. Though not yet the primary scorer, he emerged as a vital component in a Hoosiers squad that featured Isiah Thomas, Ray Tolbert, and Randy Wittman. Indiana went 26–9 and made a historic run in the NCAA Tournament.

In the 1981 NCAA Tournament, Kitchel played a key supporting role as the Hoosiers surged through the bracket. Though Isiah Thomas was the star, Kitchel’s timely shooting and high basketball IQ were pivotal. Indiana defeated North Carolina in the championship game, giving Bob Knight his second NCAA title. Kitchel was benched after getting into foul trouble early in that game and Jim Thomas and Steve Risley played well as his replacement to help the Hoosiers win the National Championship.

All-American and Team Leader (1981–83)

With Isiah Thomas off to the NBA after the 1981 title, Kitchel took center stage. Over the next two seasons, he became the team’s leading scorer and one of the best forwards in the country.

1981–82 Season:

• Averaged 19.6 points per game

• Named First-Team All-Big Ten

• Earned All-American honors

• Known for his smooth mid-range jumper and deadly baseline shooting

Indiana finished 19–10 and earned an NCAA Tournament berth, though they fell in the first round. Still, Kitchel had firmly established himself as one of the best players in college basketball.

1982–83 Season:

Kitchel entered his senior year with high expectations. The Hoosiers, now featuring Uwe Blab and the immortal Dan Dakich(in his own mind), were ranked No. 1 in the country at one point. Kitchel was again the offensive focal point.

• Averaged 17.3 points per game

• Despite battling injuries late in the season, he helped Indiana capture the Big Ten Championship

• Named Big Ten Player of the Year (co-winner with Derek Harper of Illinois)

Unfortunately, a back injury late in the season limited Kitchel during the NCAA Tournament. The Hoosiers lost to Kentucky in the Sweet Sixteen, a disappointing end to an otherwise brilliant season.

Legacy and Post-Playing Career

Ted Kitchel finished his Indiana career with:

• 1,336 career points

• Averaged 12.8 points and 3.4 rebounds over 104 games

• Shot over 50% from the field and 80% from the free throw line

What made Kitchel special wasn’t just his stats—it was his poise, clutch shot-making, and how seamlessly he fit into Knight’s team-first philosophy. He was a classic Bob Knight player: disciplined, tough, and unselfish.

After college, Kitchel was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in the second round of the 1983 NBA Draft, but he never played in the NBA due to lingering injuries.

In later years, Kitchel became a color commentator for IU basketball broadcasts, sharing his deep knowledge of the game and love for the Hoosiers with a new generation of fans.

Indiana Basketball Weekly:Guest Ted Kitchel, W/Collin Hartman and Steve Risley

Final Thoughts

Ted Kitchel may not have become an NBA superstar, but his contributions to Indiana basketball are etched in stone. He was the glue guy who became a star, the player who turned adversity into greatness, and a key figure in one of the most iconic programs in college basketball history. For fans of Indiana basketball, Kitchel represents what it means to play the game the right way—with heart, intelligence, and quiet excellence.

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