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Illinois does their version of Taylor University’s “Silent Night”

John Groce

On the outset, it would appear that Illinois was stealing Taylor University’s thunder by remaining silent for the beginning of their game against Nebraska-Omaha tonight. and then promptly erupting in cheers when the Illini scored their tenth point.

On the Friday before final exams each year at Taylor University, the students gather in the quaint Odle Arena for the “Silent Night” men’s basketball game where the crowd remains quiet until the tenth point is scored and then erupt in cheering. Afterwards, the crowd harmoniously sings “Silent Night.”

It’s one of the best college basketball traditions every year at the small Division III school in Indiana:

Why did Illinois have their own version of “Silent Night?”

John Groce, the head coach at Illinois, is a 1994 graduate of Taylor University, and was an assistant on the coaching staff at his alma mater from 1994-1996. He experienced “Silent Night” as both a player and coach.

Illinois called this “Orange Hush.” A jumper by Joseph Bertrand sent the Illinois students and fans into a frenzy:

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