On March 13, 1963, one of the most iconic moments in college basketball history took place during the NCAA Tournament. In the Mideast Regional final, Mississippi State University defied a court order that prohibited them from playing against integrated teams, sneaking out of their home state to face Loyola University Chicago, which had four black starters.
The game, which took place at Michigan State University's Jenison Fieldhouse, was a thriller from start to finish. Loyola, led by All-American forward Jerry Harkness, jumped out to an early lead, but Mississippi State, under coach Babe McCarthy, fought back and kept the game close throughout.
In the end, Loyola prevailed 61-51, advancing to the Final Four and eventually winning the national championship. But the game's significance went far beyond the final score. By defying the segregationist policies of their state and university, the Mississippi State players and coaches took a brave stand for civil rights and helped to break down barriers in college sports.
The game became known as the "Game of Change," and its impact is still felt today. In 2013, surviving members of both teams gathered at Loyola to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the game, and the university erected a statue on campus depicting Harkness and Mississippi State captain Joe Dan Gold shaking hands before the historic contest.
The "Game of Change" remains a shining example of the power of sports to bring people together and effect positive social change, even in the face of great adversity.
