Redbird Basketball: Illinois State Vs. Indiana State

Redbird Basketball: Illinois State Vs. Indiana State

January 18th, 2012

For those of you who haven't had the opportunity to enjoy either a Men's or Woman's basketball game here at Illinois State, this will be a small window into what it is really like to attend a game in Redbird Arena. Enjoy!

For me, I was never a big basketball person. I only enjoyed watching people dunk, and playing pick up games; however, after being apart of the crowd to cheer on my fellow Illinois State student athletes it is something that becomes addicting. I thoroughly enjoyed my experience and have been to several competitions since!

Doug Collins Court in Redbird Arena

Jackie Carmichael #32

January 18th, 2012 the Illinois State Redbirds took on the Indiana State Sycamores at home in Redbird Arena. At the time of this meeting the Redbirds were holding a record of 12 wins and 7 losses, with an even 4 wins and 4 losses in the Missouri Valley Conference. Indiana State came in with a record of 11 wins and 8 losses with a record of 2 and 8 in Missouri Valley Conference play.

The game began as a shootout. With lead changes what seemed like every few moments. Indiana State got the ball rolling in the first quarter with the first points, but the Redbirds responded well. It was a stressful game to watch! Illinois State would make a great basket and play but it never seemed to be enough. Neither team could pull away from each other, the lead never exceeded 5 points in the first half. Every possession was well worth the watch. It was bouts of excitement when the Redbirds scored followed by moments disappointment when the Sycamores would make a play and remain a contender in the game.

Illinois State was able to get into a groove in the opening moments of the first half. However this was followed by an Indiana State run to take the lead. As a fan and student in the stands I couldn't take my eyes of the ball. It was by this time I was shouting at the ISU basketball players by name. I was so engulfed in the action it began to take control of my emotions and I found myself hooting an hollering like a crazy person. Doug Collins Court was host to an electric game between conference opponents. The game remained close until the final few minutes. Illinois State caught fire and scored 15 straight points!! We fought and fought and finally the Indiana State Sycamores could no longer keep up. Illinois State finished the game with a solid performance to win 67-54 over Indiana State.

 

Supporting your school in athletic events is part of the amazing experience of attending a major university. It is at these events all students of Illinois State regardless of their background can be excited and share embrace because we all share a common interest of the cheering on the Redbirds. I hope this has given you the inspiration to go out there and attend a basketball game here at Illinois State. ROLL BIRDS!

Photo Credit of Jackie Carmichael #32 goes to www.goredbirds.com