My wife Janet and I want to give a special thanks to all the students who have attended ISU basketball games this season. In particular, we want to recognize members of Cyclone Alley, including those who were so gracious to both of us during the halftime ceremony of the March 2 men’s basketball win over Missouri.

It has been my honor to be a part of the ISU basketball program for parts of five decades. As a student-athlete, broadcaster and Ames resident, I have been a witness to the highs and lows of countless games. When I played at the Armory, the student body made it a special place, and our opponents knew it was a very tough place to play and win.

When the ISU basketball program moved into Hilton Coliseum, the student body became a huge part of what came to be called “Hilton Magic.” It has been the enthusiasm of student fans, and in particular Cyclone Alley, that has revitalized that magic and made this remarkable season one to remember. Equally as impressive was the presence of a large contingent of Cyclone Alley students at the Feb. 8 ISU victory at Nebraska.

There was no questioning the impact that support had on our players. In fact, the team came back out of the locker room to make a heartfelt demonstration of thanks to the ISU students who made the trip to Lincoln.

Perhaps the most impressive fact about that trip was it was planned before the Cyclones’ Big 12 winning streak began. That says it all!

Janet and I say thank you for honoring us with your support. It is people like all of you who make Iowa State such a special place.

Gary and Janet Thompson

Ames