Indiana’s Exciting Tradition

Things got lively in Indiana!

On Friday night, a sea of Taylor University supporters crowded onto the basketball court as part of the beloved yet wild annual “Silent Night” Christmas event at the esteemed Christian institution.

A mere three and a half minutes into the game, after the Trojans overwhelmed Moody Bible Institute 118-33, junior Pete Combs made a spectacular dunk that cranked the energy up to an all-time high at the packed Odle Arena in Upland, Indiana, kicking off a raucous celebration.

Combs’ basket marked the Trojans’ 10th point during Taylor’s 28th annual “Silent Night,” igniting cheers from the 2,217 fans in attendance.

For the “Silent Night” tradition, spectators must remain silent until the Trojans score their 10th point. Once that happens, it’s a total explosion of excitement.

Students, dressed in various playful costumes, flooded the court almost instantly, transforming the gym into an electrifying party atmosphere.

Players from Moody Bible Institute hurried off the court, trying to escape the throngs of ecstatic students.

An aerial view captured the scene, showcasing students gathering at center court, jumping and shouting along with the music.

Before the game kicked off, students were held outside the gym and then unleashed, racing around the court in search of prime seats in the student section.

Numerous Fred Flintstone look-alikes dotted the court, while others climbed into the bleachers to claim space for their friends.

Costumes ranged wildly—some dressed as Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, others as chefs, crayons, Egyptian pharaohs, the Lorax, a pickle, construction workers, and even the Grinch.

This particular game also marked the debut of the school’s new mascot, introduced during the day’s festivities.

At the game’s conclusion, students linked arms and sang “Silent Night,” creating a memorable end to a chaotic evening.

After Taylor scored their tenth point, the once-quiet arena erupted with cheers and laughter.

The Trojans took an early lead during the game, 10-5, before a brief six-minute pause.

In a fun intermission moment, a student, dressed as “Moses,” took to the floor, directing the crowd in some choreographed movements.

With two minutes left in the game, everyone joined together, swaying and singing “Silent Night,” wrapping up the event beautifully.

Taylor University, affiliated with the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics, has made this annual “Silent Night” event a cherished ritual, only missing out during the canceled 2020 season due to the pandemic.

A media timeout is automatically called as soon as the 10th point is scored to avoid any technical fouls for the team.

This game takes place each year on the Friday before finals week, a fitting finale that always ends with the melodic singing of “Silent Night.”

The tradition began back in the ’80s when students started showing up in pajamas, but it wasn’t until 1997 that the celebration of the 10th point became a thing.

With an impressive record of 27 wins and just 1 loss in Silent Night games, the only blemish came on December 7, 2018, when they lost a nail-biter to Grace University, 73-71.