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.
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.
If you child is a member of any of the following club or teams, please ensure they bring their uniform, club shirt, instrument, or equipment.
Robotics, Girls Basketball, Boys Basketball, Fall Girls on the Run, Archery, 6th Grade Band, Student Ambassadors, Student Council
Get ready to celebrate! Our Corporation-Wide 12 Days of Christmas starts TOMORROW, Thursday, December 4th!
We are excited to ring in the Christmas season with festive fun across all South Ripley Schools.
Let's make the start of December merry and bright!
-Swim Meet at South Dearborn is still on
-Girls Basketball game with North Decatur at home is still on as well.
Go Raiders!
Important information regarding our Boys Basketball game this Saturday at Tyson Auditorium:
We are bringing Raider basketball back to Tyson Auditorium for the first time since 2008. Most people in our community remember the energy in Tyson during games on Friday and Saturday nights as something special. From Hall of Fame coaches, to memorable playing experiences, Tyson Auditorium is remembered as one of the most historic gymnasiums in all of Indiana. Don't miss the opportunity to watch the Varsity Raiders battle the North Decatur Chargers this Saturday night starting with the JV tipoff at 6:00pm.
🏀 South Ripley High School Basketball Returns to Tyson Auditorium! 🏀
For the first time since 2008, we’re thrilled to bring Raider basketball back to the historic Tyson Auditorium!
🏀 Varsity/JV Boys Basketball
📅 Saturday, December 6
📍 Tyson Auditorium starting at 6:00pm for the JV tipoff
🆚 South Ripley vs. North Decatur
🚗 Please remember that parking at Tyson is limited. You will most likely have to park along the streets of Versailles and may have to walk a couple of blocks. Please be patient and enjoy this historic evening.
🎟 Presale Tickets
Presale tickets will be available in the South Ripley High School office beginning Tuesday, December 2 for $6 each during normal school hours. Tickets will also be available at the gate on game night.
🎫 Season Ticket Holders
All season ticket holders will receive a ticket at the game at no charge for this special event.
We will be honoring previous SR Varsity Boys Basketball coaches who coached at Tyson during halftime of the Varsity game!
Let's show up and support the Raiders and make this a night to remember! 💚🤍
#RaiderPride #TysonAuditorium #HistoricReturn
The third graders of SRES rang in our Thanksgiving festivities with their annual Balloons Over Broadway parade!
The cafeteria was full of smiles, laughter, and a whole lot of holiday spirit as our students got a surprise visit from the one and only Turkey Tom!
Wishing all of our Raiders and their families a very Happy Thanksgiving! We hope your day is filled with warmth, happiness, and full bellies! 🧡💛🤎
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