Gambee chose to stay in town and play college basketball at
Oregon State University. Following the 1957–58 season, the 6-foot-7 Gambee was OSU’s career leader in points scored (1,468), was No. 3 in rebounds (828) and he had five 30-plus scoring games. Gambee was named an All-American twice while at Oregon State. He garnered those high honors in 1957 and 1958, and was also a first-team
All-Pacific Coast Conference selection both years. He led the Beavers to the 1958 Pacific Coast Title and to three Far West Classic Championships. He was the 1957 Classic MVP. While at Oregon State, Gambee also was a 1st baseman and a pitcher on the Beaver Baseball team as well. In 2010, Gambee was inducted into the
Pac-10 Basketball Hall of Honor. ==Professional career==