The 1986 film "Hoosiers" is a beloved sports drama that tells the story of a small-town high school basketball team's journey to become a top contender for the state championship in 1950s Indiana.
Filmed in various locations around central Indiana, the movie showcases the beauty and authenticity of the towns where it was shot.
New Richmond, Indiana: The Inspiration for Hickory
The town of Hickory in the movie "Hoosiers" is fictional, but it is based on New Richmond, Indiana. Located in Montgomery County, New Richmond is a small town with a population of 333.
The town served as the backdrop for the fictional Hickory, and multiple signs in New Richmond pay homage to its association with the film. Visitors to New Richmond are greeted with a sign that reads, “Welcome to New Richmond, AKA 'Hickory,' movie Hoosiers filmed here 1985".
The Real School: Milan High School
Milan High School is the real-life inspiration for the school depicted in "Hoosiers." The film is loosely based on "The Milan Miracle," the story of the 1954 Milan High School basketball team, which won the state championship on a last-second shot.
Milan's small size and remarkable basketball achievements were integral to the movie's lore, staying true to the real-life story of Milan's basketball success.
Filming Locations Throughout Central Indiana
The production of "Hoosiers" took place in several locations around central Indiana, capturing the essence of small-town life in the 1950s. Here are the notable filming locations:
The Hoosier Gym, Knightstown, Indiana
The Hoosier Gym, located at 355 N. Washington St. in Knightstown, Indiana, served as the home gym for the basketball team in the movie.
This historic gymnasium was the perfect setting to depict the team's home court, adding an authentic charm to the film.
St. Philip Neri Catholic School, Indianapolis
The gym of St. Philip Neri Catholic School in downtown Indianapolis was transformed into the home court of the Cedar Knob Knights for the film’s away game.
This location added to the authenticity of the movie, showcasing the small-town basketball rivalry depicted in the storyline.
Other Key Locations
- Coach Dale's journey towards Hickory in the opening credits began on U.S. 40 near Stilesville, in southwestern Hendricks County, and continued on other Montgomery County roads, capturing the picturesque landscapes of central Indiana.
- The scenes of the town were shot in New Richmond, further solidifying the town's association with the fictional Hickory depicted in the film.
- Memorial Gymnasium in Lebanon and a gym in Brownsburg were sites of the Huskers' sectional and regional games, adding depth to the portrayal of the basketball journey in the movie.
- Hinkle Fieldhouse, home of the Butler Bulldogs, served as the site of the state championship game, showcasing a historical and iconic basketball venue.
The Legacy of Filming Locations
The filming locations of "Hoosiers" have left a lasting legacy in the towns where the movie was shot.
These locations have become points of interest for fans of the film, drawing visitors who are eager to experience the real-life settings that contributed to the movie's authenticity.
The authenticity and charm of these locations have immortalized the spirit of small-town basketball and the enduring legacy of the film.
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