Indiana Hoosiers to Honor Anthony Thompson with Statue at Memorial Stadium
Bloomington, IN — In a historic move that underscores the rich legacy of Indiana Hoosiers football, university officials announced Friday that a statue of legendary running back Anthony Thompson will be unveiled this fall at Memorial Stadium. The decision, made official during a Board of Trustees meeting earlier this month, marks the first time an individual player will be immortalized in bronze on stadium grounds.
The tribute honors Thompson’s indelible mark on the Hoosiers program—a legacy that has transcended decades and continues to inspire new generations of athletes. The statue will stand on the north plaza, facing the stadium’s Hall of Champions, symbolically greeting fans and reminding them of the grit, heart, and heroism that Thompson brought to every down.
“This is more than a statue,” said Indiana Athletic Director Scott Dolson. “It’s a recognition of a legacy that helped build Hoosier football into what it is today. Anthony was more than a player—he was a cornerstone.”
Thompson, who played from 1986 to 1989 under Coach Bill Mallory, is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in college football history. The Terre Haute native broke NCAA records during his collegiate career, finishing with 5,299 rushing yards and 65 total touchdowns. In 1989, he won both the Maxwell and Walter Camp Awards, was a two-time Big Ten Player of the Year, and finished second in Heisman Trophy voting—just one point behind Andre Ware of Houston.
“It’s an honor I never expected but deeply appreciate,” Thompson said in a press release. “Indiana shaped me not only as a player but as a person. This means everything to me, my family, and the community that stood behind me every step of the way.”
Designed by award-winning sculptor Julie Rotblatt-Amrany, the statue will depict Thompson in his iconic stride—legs driving forward, ball tucked tight, eyes scanning for daylight—capturing the essence of a back who once shredded defenses with both power and poise. Rotblatt-Amrany is also known for her work on statues of Michael Jordan and Walter Payton, lending prestige to the commission.
The unveiling ceremony is set for October 18, ahead of the Hoosiers’ homecoming game against Michigan State. The event will include remarks from former teammates, Coach Mallory’s family, and university dignitaries. Thousands are expected to attend, including alumni who remember Thompson not just for his on-field heroics, but for the humility and leadership he displayed off the field.
The statue is part of a broader initiative called “Legacy Plaza,” aimed at celebrating the history of Indiana athletics. Thompson’s likeness will be the first of several planned monuments, with future honorees including basketball great Calbert Cheaney and coaching legend Bill Mallory.
In an era when college athletics is constantly evolving, Indiana University is grounding itself in its past—through a man who ran like the wind, lifted a program on his back, and left cleat prints deep in Hoosier lore.
