The Legendary Chair Toss: A 40-Year Mystery Revisited
On a significant day in college basketball history, Mike Woodson, the outgoing coach of the Indiana Hoosiers, commemorated the 40th anniversary of one of the sport’s most infamous moments. In 1985, Bob Knight, Indiana’s legendary coach, threw a chair across the court in a fit of rage during a game against Purdue. This act has become an enduring symbol of Knight’s fiery temperament and has been etched in the annals of college basketball. To honor this moment, Woodson brought his own red plastic chair to Assembly Hall and used it during the rivalry game against the No. 13 Boilermakers. His decision added a twist to a question that has puzzled Indiana fans for four decades: where is the original chair that Knight tossed?
The Enigmatic Chair and Its Journey
Woodson’s story about the chair is as intriguing as it is plausible. He recounted that Scott Greer, who was the tennis coach at Indiana many years ago, had the foresight to secure the chair the morning after Knight’s infamous toss. Greer then had it signed by Coach Knight, track coach Sam Bell, and took pictures with it. This narrative is compelling, but verifying it is nearly impossible, as key figures like Greer, Bell, and Knight are no longer with us. Despite the uncertainty, Woodson’s chair brought a sense of nostalgia and a touch of humor to the game, which Indiana won 73-58.
The Incident That Defined a Rivalry
The incident that led to the chair toss occurred on February 23, 1985, during a heated game against the rival Purdue Boilermakers. Just five minutes into the game, Knight, known for his intense coaching style, was already at odds with the referees. He drew the first of three technical fouls during a sequence that saw him grab his plastic chair and hurl it past Purdue guard Steve Reid and into a row of photographers. While Indiana fans initially cheered, the mood quickly turned sour when Knight was ejected. The situation escalated as fans began throwing coins onto the court, one of which hit Pat Keady, the wife of Purdue coach Gene Keady, in the eye. The game’s aftermath was marked by tension and fear, highlighting the intensity of the rivalry.
The Legacy of the Chair Toss
The chair toss has become a part of college basketball lore, with replays of the incident garnering millions of views online. Sports enthusiasts and historians often recount the story, emphasizing the raw emotion and drama that unfolded on that February night. The mystery surrounding the chair’s whereabouts has only added to its mystique. Some believe it was discarded, while others claim to have tracked it down. However, the true fate of the chair remains a subject of debate and speculation, much like the enduring legacy of Bob Knight himself.
A Symbol of Motivation and Victory
Woodson’s decision to bring a red plastic chair to the game was not just a nod to history; it served as a motivational tool for his team. The Hoosiers, facing a double-digit deficit at halftime, staged a remarkable comeback with a 28-3 run at the start of the second half. This surge of energy and determination led to a decisive 73-58 victory, marking one of the Hoosiers’ most significant wins of the season. The win was crucial not only for the rivalry but also for Indiana’s NCAA Tournament hopes. Prior to the game, Mike DeCourcy’s projections had listed IU as one of the last four teams out of the tournament. Woodson’s creative gesture may not have directly influenced the outcome, but it certainly provided an emotional boost to the team.
The Future and the Legacy
As the Hoosiers move forward, the victory against the Boilermakers could be a turning point in their season. The game’s significance extends beyond the final score, as it serves as a reminder of the rich history and deep rivalries that define college basketball. While the true whereabouts of the original chair may forever remain a mystery, its impact on the sport and the Indiana program is undeniable. Woodson’s decision to bring a chair to the game not only honored a pivotal moment in basketball history but also inspired his team to achieve an important victory. As the Hoosiers continue their journey, the memory of "the chair" will undoubtedly remain a cherished and enigmatic part of their legacy.
