Introduction to the 1934 Doubleheader
The Significance of the 1934 Collegiate Basketball Doubleheader
The event that transpired on December 8, 1934, at Madison Square Garden, NYC, is a monumental fixture in collegiate basketball history. This was the first collegiate basketball doubleheader to take place in one of the most iconic arenas in the world, bringing together thrilling matchups that captivated fans and set a precedent for future basketball events.
New York University vs. Notre Dame
The first game of the doubleheader featured New York University (NYU) facing off against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. In a hard-fought contest, NYU emerged victorious with a score of 25-18. This match was not only a showcase of skill but also a display of the growing popularity of collegiate basketball during the 1930s, as fans witnessed fierce competition and teamwork from both sides.
Westminster College vs. St. John's
Westminster vs. St. John's thrilling matchup
The second game of the doubleheader saw Westminster College clash with St. John's University. This contest proved to be equally exciting, with Westminster edging out St. John's with a close score of 37-33. The tight score highlighted the intensity and competitive spirit of college basketball, engaging the spectators and adding to the atmosphere of the event at Madison Square Garden.
The Impact on Collegiate Basketball
The success of this doubleheader demonstrated the potential for collegiate basketball to attract large audiences. Events like this paved the way for future collegiate competitions in arenas that often hosted professional sports. The excitement generated during the 1934 doubleheader helped to solidify the role of college basketball in the American sports landscape.
Fun Fact
A Unique Aspect of the 1934 Event
What makes the 1934 collegiate basketball doubleheader particularly interesting is that it marked the beginning of a new sporting tradition in Madison Square Garden. It was the first time collegiate teams were featured in a format usually reserved for professional teams.
Additional Resources
Recommended Reading on Collegiate Basketball
To dive deeper into the history of collegiate basketball, consider reading “The History of Basketball: From its Invention to the Present” or “College Basketball: The Story of the Game”. These works provide invaluable insights into how events like the 1934 doubleheader shaped the future of basketball.