The beginnings of bookstore basketball

By THOMAS DOBBS, LILYANN GARDNER, CADE CZARNECKI

From the a rchives researchers s ince 1972, the u niversity of n otre d ame has been home to the largest 5-on-5 outdoor basketball tournament — b ookstore b asketball. This annual tradition during the u niversity’s a n Tostal celebrations was created by students Fritz h oefer (‘72) and v ince m econi (‘75), who wanted to provide a platform for average students to pursue athletics on a larger scale than interhall competitions. The first tournament in 1972 was a massive hit, and the event allowed students to compete against varsity athletes. a lthough competitive in spirit, the tournament is all in good fun and is known for its strange occurrences, from teams dressing up in costume to calling timeouts to have study breaks. b ookstore b asketball has become an integral part of n otre d ame culture, with over 700 teams competing at its peak. i n this edition, From the a rchives looks back at b ookstore b asketball’s memorable moments and how it became a cherished tradition.

What is Bookstore Basketball?

The largest 5-on-5 outdoor basketball tournament found its origins at the u niversity of n otre d ame in 1972 and has since become an annual tradition during the u niversity’s a n Tostal celebrations.

s tudents Fritz h oefer (‘72), an a n Tostal chairman, and v ince m econi (‘75), president of m orrissey h all, were the masterminds behind the tournament. The two worked