MILAN — A towering, basketball-themed water storage tank will soon stand as a monumental tribute to Milan, Indiana’s legendary basketball history. A dedication ceremony for the new tank is scheduled for July 3 at 5 p.m.
The new 150,000-gallon spherical water storage tank, proudly emblazoned with the slogan “Basketball Town USA,” is located along State Road 101 on the north side of Milan. It replaces an older standpipe tank built in 1964 and significantly increases Milan’s total usable water storage capacity to 350,000 gallons, designed to meet the area’s growing water demands better. This tank is a key component of a larger drinking water improvement project, which includes updates to water mains, hydrants, valves, and water service lines.
Milan’s profound basketball heritage, celebrated as “Basketball Town USA,” stems from its legendary 1954 state championship win, which famously inspired the 1986 film “Hoosiers.” With a total enrollment of only 161 students at the time, Milan High School holds the distinction of being the smallest school ever to win a single-class state basketball title in Indiana, defeating Muncie Central High School in what became known as the Milan Miracle.
The town also honors its history with the ’54 Museum, a popular tourist destination featuring exhibits dedicated to the team’s historic victory.
“…That legacy continues with one-of-a-kind features like the new basketball-themed water tower and custom basketball street lights—distinctive landmarks that not only reflect our pride but also welcome visitors into the heartbeat of Hoosier Hysteria,” said Milan Town Council President Deb Shumate in a press release.
