With over 5,000 people watching another rendition of the Loogootee vs. Barr Reeve rivalry, one of the oldest duels in the state of Indiana, the feeling of a national championship may be the buzz in nearby Bloomington; however, as the old attitude goes, in 49 states it is just basketball… but not in Indiana.

While in nearby Bloomington, the focus on college basketball is intense, with the buzz centered around a potential national championship run by Indiana University, the sentiment elsewhere in the state tells a different story. For many Hoosiers, basketball is more than just a game; it’s a shared history, a cultural cornerstone that shapes identities and community bonds. From youth leagues to high school championships, basketball’s influence permeates every level of life in Indiana.

Although many around the state cite Indiana’s football success, these two schools still call basketball their favorite longtime passion, and the game did not disappoint tonight.

Loogootee attempted to gain possession of the game early, ending with a two point lead over their crosstown rivals in Barr Reeve in the first quarter, 12-10 and then again going into halftime as they again led Barr Reeve 21-19.  

As the third quarter roled along, Barr Reeve took their shots. Some small and some large, but Barr Reeve scored as top players such as A.J. Foster committed two fouls close to the end of the game. Loogootee’s Coach, Josh Thompson, was even issued a warning by the refs in the second half which turned the game over its head for the Lions to capatilize on major opportunities.

For Barr Reeve they used Loogootee’s fouls and fuel.

The first two quarters were a back-and-forth affair with each team attempting to hit buckets and clear the lane for a win that would not come easily. However, Loogootee, which have been home to comebacks throughout this season came out of the second half looking dissolved at points as Barr Reeve took a slight advantage to take the lead to win the game 47-42.

The Vikings will jump to 12-1 on the year, 2^nd in Blue Chips Conference play with a 3-0 record as the Loogootee Lions fall 12-4 after this conference loss.

Barr Reeve will play Wood Memorial on the road at 7:30 p.m. on Jan. 23 and then play North Daviess at home the next day. 

The Lions will once again play at Shoals High School on Jan. 23 at 7:30 p.m. with a home match against Bloomfield at 7:30 p.m. the next day.

Final Box Score:

First Quarter Loogootee: 12- Barr Reeve 10

Second Quarter: Loogootee 21 – Barr Reeve 19

Third Quarter: Loogootee 32- Barr Reeve 37

Fourth Quarter: Loogootee 42 – Barr Reeve 47