Indiana basketball brings Holiday cheer – ‘Twas the day of the game

It was one of the best college basketball games ever. Two of the most storied programs faced off, each with undefeated records. A clash of cultures filled Assembly Hall Saturday night as Indiana hoped to make it a statement game proving that they’re back. In a 73-72 defeat of the nation’s No. 1 team, the Hoosiers leave no doubt that they have returned to prominence.

Still running on adrenaline and reading everything I can find, below is a great holiday poem — Indiana style. (Note: the author is unknown at this point. If you do know, please let me know.)

Indiana defeated No. 1 Kentucky thanks to this Christian Watford three at the buzzer. (IU Athletics/Joe Eke)

“Twas the day of the game”

T’was the day of the game, and all through The Hall,

Hoosier Nation has gathered to watch them play ball.

The banners are hung from the rafters with care,

With hopes that a 6th one soon will be there.

The fans are nestled all snug in their seats,

Hoping the Cats are a team we can beat.

With Mom in her sweatshirt, the girls in their stripes,

We’re watching at home so I won’t get in a fight.

When on the TV there arose such a clatter,

I sprang from the couch to see what was the matter.

When what to my wondering eyes should appear,

The flags are all out, and Tom Crean is there.

He spoke not a word but went straight to his work.

Calipari’s arrived…he’s such a jerk.

The buzzer has sounded, it’s time for the game.

More loved than a hero, Crean calls them by name.

Now Zeller, Oladipo, now Watford and Jordy;

On Elston, Verdell, and oh yes Will Sheehey.

Now post away, steal away, dunk away all,

Let’s show the Cats that “this is how we ball”.

And if the game ends with the Hoosiers on top,

The celebration in B-town may never stop.

So Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night.

And GO IU! FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT!

——

The author wasn’t done yet. Less than 24 hours after the huge victory, here’s a new poem in honor of the win.

“Twas the day after the game”

T’was the day after the game for the Crimson and Cream,

And I’m wondering now was it all just a dream.

The girls are nestled all snug in their beds,

While visions of Watford dance in their heads.

With Mom in her nightgown and Dad in his shorts,

It’s no surprise from the screaming that Mom woke up hoarse.

When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,

I sprang to my feet to see what was the matter.

When what to my wondering eyes should appear,

The newspaper guy says the Courier-Journal is here.

I tore the bag open just to see it in print,

The huge picture of Watford gave me the first hint.

It’s all very real, a right jolly old team,

And the smile on my face has turned into a beam.

The Hoosiers are back in a very big way,

A gift that’s not brought with Santa or a sleigh.

It came from the heart, with blood, sweat and tears,

A comeback that has taken us so many years.

From Crean cleaning house to the recruitment of Cody,

And the return to the program of the beloved Calbert Cheaney.

He did things the right way, not just a quick fix,

Without any gimmicks, no cheating or tricks.

He got guys who knew what it meant to wear stripes,

Even if it meant there wouldn’t be any hype.

So enjoy this win Hoosiers, it’s much more than a game,

It has brought back the glory of the Indiana name.

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a great night,

And GO IU FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT!

[via Midwest Sports Fans]

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