Hoosier Hoopla!

O'er the undulating prairie where grows soy beans and corn, Generations of premier basketball players have been born. The Hoosier State of Indiana, where budding talent is so replete, Where small towns can conquer titans, shocking them in defeat! Long before lads and lassies leave the cradle to crawl upon the floor, Dads have hung a backboard and hoop above every garage door. Seldom is seen a Hoosier home without this indigenous adornment! The flame begins early in Indiana, stirring souls with excitement! Ah! The exuberance builds as high schools begin a brand-new season. Not to support the hometown team is almost akin to treason! Creative cheerleaders perfect frenzied gyrations honing their skills. The marching bands look sharp having perfected intricate drills! Moms, Dads and coaches take pride in their young men and women, As they mentor, teach and train them to develop their acumen. Young warriors opposing each other upon friendly fields of strife, Strengthen character to meet the challenges facing them in life! A Canadian invented the game using peach baskets and a soccer ball. You daren't mention that to a Hoosier fan - you're apt to start a brawl! But Hoosiers don't bother themselves about that, caring not a whit. Basketball is an inbred thing in Indiana, everyone is happy to admit! Robert L. Hinshaw, CMSgt, USAF, Retired (© All Rights Reserved) Written at the request of the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame, New Castle, Indiana, for publication in their Winter 2004 publication, "Indiana Basketball History Magazine"