Cornell Freeney on the German Wheel

  One thing I miss about college men's basketball games is the halftime entertainment. For over 20 years, every game I covered as a photojournalist featured an exciting act. The Gamma Phi Circus was a yearly highlight at Illinois State University, captivating audiences with their dazzling performances. Sadly, if you only follow the games on social media now, you miss out on those unforgettable moments that brought the crowd together.

Pictured - Cornell Freeney on the German Wheel

Brock Holtz - Bloomington High School Purple Raiders!

 Best Look Magazine proudly presents the 2025 McLean County Area High School Boys Basketball All Star Photo Series, showcasing the region's most talented and dedicated young athletes.

Capturing the intensity, skill, and passion of these standout players, this exclusive series celebrates the future stars of the court who have left an indelible mark on the season.

Enjoy the breathtaking action shots and join us in honoring the grit and glory of McLean County’s finest in this unforgettable collection.

Brock Holtz - Bloomington High School Purple Raiders!

This day in history (March 23, 2022) - ISU Redbird Baseball shuts down UIC Flames

 

NORMAL, Ill. — Ryan Cermak powered the Illinois State Redbirds to a 9-5 victory over the University of Illinois-Chicago Flames on Sunday, smashing two home runs in a standout performance at Duffy Bass Field.

Cermak’s second homer of the game came in a pivotal moment, electrifying the crowd as he leaped onto home plate to complete his trot around the bases. The Redbirds’ offense erupted for nine runs, overwhelming the Flames in a contest that showcased Illinois State’s dominance in the matchup.

The win improved Illinois State’s record as they capitalized on a balanced attack against UIC’s pitching. The Flames, despite a late rally, couldn’t close the gap, finishing the game with five runs.

The Redbirds’ victory underscored their strong play in the Missouri Valley Conference, while UIC struggled to keep pace. Both teams are set to continue their seasons with upcoming conference games later this week.

This Day in History - March 19, 2010 Hope College Defeats Rochester 86-75 to Advance to DIII Championship Final

  

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. (AP) March 19, 2010 — The Flying Dutch of Hope College punched their ticket to the NCAA Division III Women’s Basketball Championship final Friday night, defeating the University of Rochester Yellowjackets 86-75 in a hard-fought semifinal at the Shirk Center at Illinois Wesleyan.

The game featured intense competition, including a moment when Hope’s Philana Greene and Rochester’s Jodie Luther wrestled for a loose ball. Ultimately, the Flying Dutch pulled away with strong offensive play and clutch shooting to secure the victory.

Hope College will now advance to the championship game, looking to claim the national title.

This Day in History: Washington University Faces Illinois Wesleyan in NCAA Women's Basketball Matchup

 

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. (March 18, 2011) — Brittany Hasselbring maneuvered around the top of the key during an NCAA women's basketball game between the Washington University Bears and the Illinois Wesleyan Titans at Shirk Center on Friday.

The matchup featured intense competition as both teams fought for a spot in the next round. Hasselbring played a key role in the Titans’ offensive efforts, looking to create opportunities against Washington University's defense.

Illinois Wesleyan hosted the game at Shirk Center, drawing a strong home crowd in support of the Titans.

2024 Review in Pictures for Bloomington - Normal Sports

So much water under the bridge this year. I could add a lot of context to this post but I think I'll just let the images speak for the year. 50 of several thousand frames this year. Maybe not the best ones, but I like them all for what they say to me. I can't post 50, so click the link and enjoy!

World class images from the Best Look in Sports Action Photography in Bloomington - Normal, McLean County and the 309 area code.
https://alanlookphotography.zenfoliosite.com/2025-favorites?ct=2

12-13-2024 Normal Community West High School Wildcats Basketball defeated by Richwood Knights

  From my chair, the West v Richwoods varsity boys basketball game looked closer than it ended up. West fell short on a 50-36 game. West has what seems to be an unusually young bunch of ballers with just 3 seniors on the team. Two or three of the starters for this game were sophomores and very hard working young men!

Be sure to check out all this games and this seasons photos at https://alanlookphotography.zenfoliosite.com

Fisher ruins Tri-Valley's winning streak

All good things come to an end, they say.  Tri-Valley has been the HOIC football champs the past 3 years and hasn't lost a regular season game in probably as long.  It all ended last night in Downs.  Rain fell steadily during most of the game making the ball difficult to hang on to.  A fumble late in the game seemed to seal the Vikings fate.

Game Photos!  More coverage in the LeRoy Leader 9-13 edition!

Olympia plays U High

The first Friday in October was a pleasant change from many in September.  The air was a bit cooler and no lightning!  The Spartans of Olympia visited Hancock Stadium to take on the Pioneers of University High. It was senior night for the Pioneers.

Check out the Normalite Newspapers and Best Look Magazine for game coverage by the Best Look in Sports Action Photography in Bloomington Normal.


20151002 Olympia at UHigh football photos - Images by Alan Look
 - Chimper