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.

Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found dead in their home in New Mexico, the Santa Fe County Sherif… Bobby Plump – the real-life Jimmy Chitwood – said Gene Hackman deserves as much ...

Bobby Plump -– the real-life Jimmy Chitwood ... A day after Hackman was found dead at the age of 95 in his New Mexico home, Plump reflected on the late star and the “Hoosiers” phenomenon.