SOUTH RIPLEY BASKETBALL RETURNS TO HISTORIC TYSON AUDITORIUM FOR FIRST TIME SINCE 2008
Versailles, Ind. — For the first time in 17 years, the sounds of South Ripley basketball will echo once again inside the storied walls of Tyson Auditorium. On Saturday, December 6, the Raiders will host North Decatur in a special varsity/JV boys matchup that brings one of Indiana’s most iconic high school basketball venues back to life.
Tyson Auditorium—completed in 1950 as part of the larger Tyson School complex—served for decades as the beating heart of Versailles basketball tradition. From packed sectional tournaments to generations of local players taking the floor under its signature arched ceiling, the building stands as a monument to small-town Hoosier hoops. Though South Ripley moved its home games to the high school gym in 2008, Tyson’s legacy has remained deeply rooted in the community.
The return game is part celebration, part homecoming.
“It’s incredibly meaningful to bring our players and fans back to Tyson,” said South Ripley High School Principal Derik Hutton. “The history, the atmosphere, the memories—this gym represents so much to our community. We are excited for our students to experience it firsthand.”
In anticipation of high interest, presale tickets will be available beginning Tuesday, December 2 at the South Ripley High School office for $6 each. Season ticket holders and South Ripley students will receive a complimentary ticket at the door and will not be charged for admission to this special event.
Coaches and players alike have expressed excitement about competing in such a unique environment. Many of the Raiders taking the court were not yet born the last time South Ripley suited up at Tyson, making this an opportunity to connect generations of fans and athletes.
“Returning to Tyson Auditorium always feels like coming home. As both a proud alumnus and superintendent of South Ripley, I know firsthand the history, energy, and community spirit this place holds. I was fortunate enough to play on that floor, coach from the visitor's sideline, and learn lessons in competition and leadership that have stayed with me for a lifetime. We’re thrilled to welcome our fans back to celebrate the history and legacy of Tyson Auditorium. Saturday night will once again be a great day to be a Raider!” - Rob Moorhead, Superintendent, South Ripley Community School Corporation
The game also highlights the community’s ongoing pride in preserving local history. Tyson Auditorium has undergone maintenance and careful preservation over the years, ensuring that its distinct character—wooden bleachers, original floor, and unmatched acoustics—remains intact for events just like this one.
"Mr. Jeff Cornett and his wife Aimee have done an amazing job restoring the facility by adding new scoreboards, refinishing the floor, and improving the PA system. Our community is so thankful that our children get the opportunity to experience Tyson and it is because of the efforts like these two working to preserve the history. " - Derik Hutton.
Tipoff at Tyson Auditorium marks more than the start of a basketball game—it marks the revival of a cherished chapter in South Ripley’s story. On December 6, the Raiders return not just to a gym, but to a legacy.
For longtime fans and first-time visitors alike, it promises to be a night to remember. JV tipoff is at 6:00pm with a short ceremony honoring previous head coaches during the Tyson Auditorium era, followed by the Varsity game.