News-Gazette Film Series Screens Basketball Classic 'Hoosiers'

The 1986 film starring Gene Hackman will be shown at the Virginia Theatre.

Feb. 22, 2026 at 12:34pm

The News-Gazette Film Series is presenting a screening of the 1986 basketball classic 'Hoosiers' starring Gene Hackman. The film will be shown at the Virginia Theatre as March Madness approaches, giving sports fans and gamblers a chance to enjoy one of the best movies about the sport.

Why it matters

The News-Gazette Film Series has a long history of bringing classic and acclaimed films to the Champaign-Urbana community, providing an opportunity for residents to experience beloved movies on the big screen. 'Hoosiers' is widely regarded as one of the greatest sports films of all time, making this a must-see event for basketball fans.

The details

The screening of 'Hoosiers' will take place at the Virginia Theatre, a historic venue in downtown Champaign that has been hosting the News-Gazette Film Series for many years. The 1986 film, directed by David Anspaugh, tells the story of a small-town Indiana high school basketball team that makes an unlikely run to the state championship game.

  • The News-Gazette Film Series screening of 'Hoosiers' will take place on February 22, 2026.
  • March Madness, the annual NCAA basketball tournament, is looming on the horizon.

The players

The News-Gazette Film Series

A long-running film series in Champaign-Urbana, Illinois that brings classic and acclaimed movies to the community.

Virginia Theatre

A historic venue in downtown Champaign that has hosted the News-Gazette Film Series for many years.

Hoosiers

The 1986 basketball film directed by David Anspaugh and starring Gene Hackman, widely regarded as one of the greatest sports movies of all time.

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What’s next

Tickets for the News-Gazette Film Series screening of 'Hoosiers' are on sale now and can be purchased through the Virginia Theatre's website or box office.

The takeaway

The News-Gazette Film Series continues its tradition of bringing classic and beloved films to the Champaign-Urbana community, this time offering sports fans and movie lovers alike the chance to experience the basketball drama 'Hoosiers' on the big screen as March Madness approaches.