Twenty-one years after his final acting credit, Gene Hackman’s death shocked the entertainment and sports world. While known as a beloved, versatile actor during the 1900s, Hackman is synonymous among sports fans for his portrayal of Coach Norman Dale in the iconic basketball film “Hoosiers.

To the people in the Henry County town that’s about a 40-minute drive east of Indianapolis, Hackman is more than an actor, but someone who helped shine light on basketball and the Hoosier community, leaving a legacy for generations to come.

Actor Gene Hackman gives fictional Hickory High basketball players instructions during filming of the final game of the movie “Hoosiers” at Hinkle Fieldhouse on the Butler University campus on Dec. 6,

The dazzling films of Gene Hackman stand out for sports fan for one reason: His unforgettable role as Norman Dale, coach of the feel-good, state champion Hickory Huskers from a tiny Indiana town.

Actor Gene Hackman has been pronounced dead along with his wife, Betsy Arakawa. Fans may seek favorite movies. Watch these classic clips from "Hoosiers".

Five players on the floor functioning as one single unit: team, team, team, – no one more important than the other.” “Some people can read ‘War

Director Francis Ford Coppola, actor Viola Davis and director Paul Feig are among those paying tribute to Gene Hackman after his death at age 95.

Gene Hackman, the Oscar-winning actor, died at the age of 95. Hackman, his wife and their dog were found dead inside their New Mexico home, according to the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office.