The rivalry between the Indiana Hoosiers and the UConn Huskies is one of the most storied in all of college basketball. The two schools have met 34 times in the NCAA Tournament, more than any other two teams. They have also played in two national championship games, with UConn winning both in 2000 and 2014.
The rivalry began in the 1970s, when both schools were emerging as national powers. Indiana won the national championship in 1976, while UConn won its first national championship in 1999.
In the 1980s and 1990s, the rivalry reached its peak. The two teams met in the NCAA Tournament eight times during that span, with Indiana winning five of those meetings.
In the 2000s, UConn began to dominate the rivalry. The Huskies won seven of the eight meetings between the two schools, including the 2000 and 2014 national championship games.
In recent years, the rivalry has been more evenly matched. Indiana won the most recent meeting between the two schools, a 73-69 victory in the 2019 NCAA Tournament.
Key Moments in the Rivalry
- 1976: Indiana defeats UConn 86-68 in the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16.
- 1999: UConn defeats Indiana 75-64 in the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16.
- 2000: UConn defeats Indiana 82-73 in the national championship game.
- 2014: UConn defeats Indiana 60-54 in the national championship game.
- 2019: Indiana defeats UConn 73-69 in the NCAA Tournament Second Round.
Comparison of the Two Schools
| Category | Indiana | UConn |
|---|---|---|
| National Championships | 5 | 11 |
| NCAA Tournament Appearances | 34 | 36 |
| NCAA Tournament Wins | 85 | 133 |
| Final Four Appearances | 8 | 13 |
| All-Americans | 17 | 21 |
| NBA Draft Picks | 32 | 36 |
Why the Rivalry Is So Intense
There are a number of reasons why the rivalry between Indiana and UConn is so intense.
- Geographic proximity: The two schools are located just over 500 miles apart, which makes it easy for fans of both teams to travel to games.
- Similar fan bases: Both Indiana and UConn have passionate fan bases that are known for their loyalty and enthusiasm.
- History of success: Both schools have a long history of success in basketball, which has helped to fuel the rivalry.
- Personal animosity: There have been a number of personal rivalries between players and coaches from the two schools, which has added to the intensity of the competition.
The Future of the Rivalry
The rivalry between Indiana and UConn is likely to continue for many years to come. Both schools are committed to basketball, and they have a history of success that should ensure that they remain competitive for the foreseeable future.
In addition, the geographic proximity of the two schools makes it easy for fans of both teams to travel to games, which helps to create a passionate and intense atmosphere.
Tips for Fans
If you are planning to attend a game between Indiana and UConn, here are a few tips:
- Arrive early: Both schools have passionate fan bases, so it is important to arrive early to get a good seat.
- Be prepared for a loud and passionate atmosphere: Both Indiana and UConn have enthusiastic fans, so be prepared for a loud and passionate atmosphere.
- Wear your team colors: Both schools have proud traditions, so be sure to wear your team colors to show your support.
- Be respectful of the other team’s fans: While the rivalry is intense, it is important to be respectful of the other team’s fans.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When attending a game between Indiana and UConn, there are a few common mistakes that you should avoid:
- Don’t get too caught up in the rivalry: It is important to remember that basketball is a game. Don’t let the rivalry get in the way of enjoying the game.
- Don’t be disrespectful to the other team’s fans: While the rivalry is intense, it is important to be respectful of the other team’s fans.
- Don’t get into fights: Basketball is a game. There is no reason to get into a fight over a game.
Conclusion
The rivalry between Indiana and UConn is one of the most storied in all of college basketball. The two schools have met 34 times in the NCAA Tournament, more than any other two teams. They have also played in two national championship games, with UConn winning both in 2000 and 2014.
The rivalry is intense for a number of reasons, including the geographic proximity of the two schools, the similar fan bases, the history of success, and the personal animosity between players and coaches from the two schools.
The rivalry is likely to continue for many years to come. Both schools are committed to basketball, and they have a history of success that should ensure that they remain competitive for the foreseeable future.