Flashback: Isiah Thomas, Indiana Hoosiers win NCAA men's basketball title in 1971

Published: March 30, 2024, 10:35 a.m.

On March 30, 1971, Indiana defeated North Carolina, 63-50 to win the national championship. Hoosiers' point guard Isiah Thomas was named Tournament Most Outstanding Player.

Indiana Hoosiers guard (11) Isiah Thomas cuts down the net after defeating the North Carolina Tarheels during the 1981 Final Four. Indiana defeated North Carolina 63-50.
Indiana Hoosiers guard (11) Isiah Thomas in action against the North Carolina Tarheels during the 1981 Final Four. Indiana defeated North Carolina 63-50.
Indiana Hoosiers guard #11 ISIAH THOMAS in action during the 1981 NCAA Final Four against the North Carolina Tar Heels at the Spectrum. The Hoosiers defeated the Tar Heels 63-50 to win the National Championship.
Indiana guard Isiah Thomas in action during the 1981 Final Four championship against North Carolina at the Spectrum.
Indiana Hoosiers head coach Bobby Knight (right) talks with guard Isiah Thomas (11) on the sideline at Assembly Hall during the 1980-81 season.
Indiana Hoosiers guard (11) Isiah Thomas in action against Alabama-Birmingham during the 1981 NCAA Tournament.
Indiana Hoosiers guard (11) Isiah Thomas in action against the North Carolina Tarheels during the 1981 Final Four. Indiana defeated North Carolina 63-50.
Indiana University players Isiah Thomas (left) and Ray Tolbert bask in glory at Assembly Hall on March 31 1981 after winning the NCAA championship Blank Headlin
Indiana's Isiah Thomas and Purdue's Brian Walker battle for a loose ball. Feb 1, 1981 Iupu 198