Lebanon, Indiana, is more than just home to Lane & Brown Sporting Gear—it’s a town with a basketball history that runs deep through its veins. Growing up here, it’s impossible not to feel the pride and excitement that this sport brings to our community. From the unforgettable games played in high school gyms to the rich Hoosier tradition of small-town hoops, basketball isn’t just a sport in Lebanon; it’s part of who we are.
One place that stands out in our local lore is Memory Hall. This historic gym wasn’t just a hub for basketball in its heyday—it earned its claim to fame when it appeared in the 1986 classic movie Hoosiers. Seeing Memory Hall immortalized on screen was a surreal moment for anyone connected to Lebanon, bringing the spirit of our small-town hoops to a national audience. The film perfectly captured the grit and heart of Indiana basketball, and Memory Hall became a symbol of what it means to play for the love of the game.
Of course, you can’t talk about Lebanon basketball without mentioning Rick Mount. A hometown hero, Mount put Lebanon on the map when he became the first high school athlete to grace the cover of Sports Illustrated. His legacy continued at Purdue University, where he shattered scoring records and left a mark on the sport that still inspires local athletes today.
Now, Lebanon is building on its basketball legacy with an exciting new project that blends history and innovation: Alley Oop. This downtown alley activation project is transforming an overlooked space into a celebration of our town’s love for the game. Featuring murals, interactive installations, and displays that bring Lebanon’s basketball story to life, Alley Oop is a tribute to both the past and the future.
Missy Krulik, Executive Director of The Heart of Lebanon, sums it up best: “We’re thrilled to unveil our rich basketball history through Alley Oop. After four years of planning and development, we’re eager to see the design come to life and share it with the community.”
As a proud member of this community, I can’t wait to see Alley Oop come together. It’s a perfect example of how Lebanon continues to embrace the traditions that connect us, while finding new ways to celebrate them. Whether it’s the games played in Memory Hall, the achievements of legends like Rick Mount, or the fresh energy of Alley Oop, basketball will always be at the heart of Lebanon.
And hey, if you’re gearing up to shoot some hoops yourself, Lane & Brown Sporting Gear has everything you need to play your best. Let’s keep the legacy alive—on and off the court.
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