The name “Anet” is revered in University of Oregon basketball circles and yes, there is a connection here in Bloomington-Normal.
In 1939, Oregon won the first NCAA basketball tournament at Evanston. Known as the “Tall Firs” because of their unique height for the era, one of the Ducks’ key players was normal size. Senior guard and team captain Bobby Anet was 5-foot-8.
Yet, he stands tall in Oregon lore, especially this week as the Ducks prepare for their first Final Four since Anet, scrappy No. 20, went diving for a loose ball in the 1939 title game and accidentally knocked over the championship trophy.