Hackman’s fellow actors from the 1986 film remembered him as an actor who offered wise advice but hated rehearsing and multiple takes.

The dazzling films of Gene Hackman stand out for sports fan for one reason: His role as Norman Dale, coach state champion in “Hoosiers.”

Gene Hackman's dazzling acting career stands out for sports fans for a single reason: his unforgettable role in "Hoosiers" as coach Norman Dale.

There’s one reason Hackman’s dazzling acting career stands out for sports fans: His unforgettable role as Norman Dale, coach of the feel-good, state champion Hickory Huskers from a tiny Indiana town

The Hoosier Gym in Knightstown, Indiana, where the iconic film "Hoosiers" was shot, has a signed movie poster and photographs of Gene Hackman lining the gym. As he was found dead Wednesday, people at the gym had a moment of silence to pay homage to the actor.