Howard Stammler (July 23, 1911 – June 6, 1977) was an American professional basketball player who competed in the National Basketball League (NBL) during the late 1930s. He played as a shooting guard and small forward, most notably for the Dayton Metropolitans during the 1937–38 season.
Early life and education
Stammler was born in Ohio, United States. He attended Ohio Wesleyan University, where he played collegiate basketball from 1932 to 1935. During his tenure with the Ohio Wesleyan Battling Bishops, Stammler earned three letters in basketball and was recognized for his scoring ability and defensive play.
College career
At Ohio Wesleyan, Stammler was a key member of the basketball team, contributing to multiple conference championships. He received All‑Buckeye honors in his final three seasons and was the inaugural recipient of the Bun Trophy, awarded to the team’s most valuable player.
Professional career
After graduating, Stammler joined the Columbus Athletic Supply team in the Midwest Basketball Conference (MBC) for the 1936–1937 season. He then signed with the Dayton Metropolitans of the NBL, appearing in four games during the 1937–38 season. In those appearances, he averaged 5.0 points per game, playing both guard and forward positions.
Later life and death
Following his brief professional basketball career, Stammler returned to Ohio, where he lived until his death in Columbus on June 6, 1977 at the age of 65. Details of his post‑basketball occupation and activities are not widely documented.
Legacy
Stammler’s career is documented in early professional basketball records and he is listed among the pioneers of the NBL, a predecessor to the modern National Basketball Association (NBA). His contributions are recognized by Ohio Wesleyan University, where he has been inducted into the institution’s Athletics Hall of Fame.