Through classic images, Old Dominion University Men's Basketball traces the rise of the basketball program from a school born during the Depression to today's vibrant university with more than 26,000 students and a multimillion-dollar sports venue. Encounter great Monarch teams that thrived under coaches Tommy Scott, Bud Metheny, Sonny Allen, Paul Webb, Tom Young, Oliver Purnell, Jeff Capel, and Blaine Taylor. Meet the Monarchs' All-Americans, including Leo Anthony, Dave Twardzik, Joel Copeland, Wilson Washington, Mark West, and Kenny Gattison. Experience the thrill as ODU captures 13...

Pictured is the legendary Myers Field c. 1950, where Norfolk ballplayers, visiting major league stars, and Piedmont League opponents once dueled upon its dirt and grass. The story of baseball in Norfolk, Virginia is as fascinating and enduring as the game itself. Christy Mathewson, Phil Rizzuto, Whitey Ford, Yogi Berra, and a myriad of other charismatic players from the game spent time developing their raw and untested skills on the diamonds of Norfolk. Military stars of the powerful World War II Navy teams and legends of the Negro Leagues performed to the delight and fascination of local...

From 1895 until 1969, the city of Portsmouth, Virginia, fielded a professional minor league team. Fans flocked to see the Truckers, Cubs, Merrimacs, and Tides as they battled opponents on the dirt and grass of local diamonds. Many locals are surprised to discover that such renowned ballplayers as Pie Traynor, Hack Wilson, Eddie Stanky, and Harry "The Cat" Breechen got their start in Portsmouth. In 1933, Negro League legend Buck Leonard first played for the Portsmouth Revels and later returned to briefly star with the 1953 Merrimacs, his only opportunity to play integrated ball during his...

Just steps from the shores of the Elizabeth River in Portsmouth's historic Olde Towne sits the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame. From its inception in 1966, this special shrine celebrating the legendary sports heroes of the Commonwealth has grown into one of the most respected and admired museums honoring athletic excellence the state level. Since its first inaugural class was announced in 1972, more than 230 individuals have become esteemed members of the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame and were awarded special places of honor in the Hall. Inductees are legendary in the world of sports; they have...