There’s one reason Gene Hackman’s dazzling acting career stands out for sports fans: His unforgettable role as Norman Dale, coach of the feel-good, state champion Hickory Huskers.

Gene Hackman's dazzling acting career stands out for sports fans for a single reason: his unforgettable role in "Hoosiers" as coach Norman Dale.

Bobby Plump — the real-life Jimmy Chitwood — said Gene Hackman deserves as much credit as anyone for taking his small-town Hoosier state basketball story beyond Indiana to the rest of the world.

Bobby Plump -– the real-life Jimmy Chitwood –- said Gene Hackman deserves as much credit as anyone for taking his small-town Hoosier state basketball story beyond Indiana to the rest the world.

Bobby Plump -– the real-life Jimmy Chitwood –- said Gene Hackman deserves as much credit as anyone for taking his small-town Hoosier state basketball story beyond Indiana to the rest of the world.

Gene Hackman's Role in 'Hoosiers' Led to an Unforgettable, Beloved Film for Fans Far Beyond Indiana Bobby Plump -– the real-life Jimmy Chitwood –- said Gene Hackman deserves as much credit as ...

There’s one reason Gene Hackman’s dazzling acting career stands out for sports fans: His unforgettable role as Norman Dale, coach of the feel-good, state champion Hickory Huskers from a tiny